When a person wonders about what’s new at Great Lakes Mall, it’s likely that some common things enter his or her mind.
First and foremost, they’ll be curious about what new stores have opened at the Mentor-based shopping mecca since their last visit. If they enjoy snacks or meals during their trips to the mall, new eateries in the food court or restaurants on the mall property also might be a topic of interest.
Typical shoppers might be less aware about a recent addition that arrived at the mall. To be specific, Great Lakes Mall announced the appointment of Eric Roxbury as its new general manager.
Roxbury is taking over the GM position previously held by Kate Miller, who has been promoted to regional director of marketing with Washington Prime Group, according to a news release.
Washington Prime Group owns Great Lakes Mall and other shopping centers throughout the United States.
As general manager of Great Lakes Mall, Roxbury will lead the center’s operations. He will plan on-property events, work with local media and engage with retailers and the local community, as part of the leadership team.
Roxbury was born and raised in Northeast Ohio, attended Kent State and has gone on to a career in sales, human resources and management in the retail sales industry.
“Prior to moving to Medina, I grew up on the east side and also supported a big box retailer in Mentor in one of my past roles, so I have quite a bit of familiarity with the community and the retailers operating in the area, including Great Lakes Mall,” Roxbury said. “Mentor is a fantastic area and I was thrilled with the idea of becoming a part of and making a difference at the largest retail hub within the city.”
According to the release, Roxbury served as general manager for several Best Buy retail locations in the Cleveland and Akron area. He was then promoted to regional sales manager and most recently worked in human resources.
Roxbury said he is eager to not just maintain the mall as an attractive spot for businesses as well as patrons, but he also wants to expand on what is already available to the public.
“My goal is to ensure we provide a world-class experience for our retailers and guests,” he said.
“Our goal is to continue to serve as the main gathering place and shopping center for the community,” he added. “We hope to continue to build upon the diverse mix of national, regional and local offerings and continue to provide space for retailers to grow and thrive.”
Roxbury addressed the recent closings in the food court of Chick-fil-A and Subway, saying the mall approaches such situations as chances to work with new businesses, such as Bubble House and The Original Hot Dog Factory.
“When there is a store closing, it provides an opportunity for us to introduce new tenants to our guests,” he said. “I’m very happy to report that Bubble House, which offers ice cream, bubble tea, shakes and acai bowls, has opened in the former Subway space. In addition, The Original Hot Dog Factory is expected to open in two weeks.
“There has been quite a bit of interest in the former Chick-fil-A space and we hope to announce a new and exciting eatery in the coming weeks.”
According to the release, Great Lakes Mall is home to more than 120 national and local retailers, dining and entertainment options, as well as numerous events and activities throughout the year.
It is a huge facility with a lot of moving pieces and responsibility, but Roxbury is confident he is up to the sizable challenge of running the show.
“I am ready and eager to take on the challenge,” he said. “I am thrilled to be a part of the Great Lakes Mall team as we continue to offer our guests the most dynamic shopping experience.”
The News-Herald is impressed with Roxbury’s credentials and enthusiasm, and we wish him the best of luck as general manager at Great Lakes Mall.
