March 29, 2024

Guinn on fast track at Theisen’s, becomes new manager

Newton’s Theisen’s home, farm and auto store welcomed a new manager in October. Zachary Guinn worked for Theisen’s since 2006 and has made a big impact on the company. He is only 26 years old, but credits his hard work ethic to his promising career.

“They were pretty fast track with me,” Guinn said. “In 2008, when I was hired back, they created a floor supervisor position. So I applied for that and got it.”

He then went on to become assistant manager in Ames. He was assistant manager for a year and a half. After that he went on to open a new store in Indianola. That led him to become manager of Newton.

Guinn has always enjoyed working for Theisen’s. He was hired part-time in 2006 and has not looked back.

“Theisen’s is a very good company to work for,” Guinn said. “We are a family owned and operated company. They provide a good working atmosphere. The hierarchy of management, it’s there but it’s very loose. My supervisor is a easy going guy.”

He has worked in a 67,000-square-foot store, whereas Newton’s store is only 20,000 square feet. Although he has worked for bigger stores, he likes working in Newton.

“Here in Newton (it) reminds me of home,” Guinn said. “My customer base is more farmers. I feel more at home being a farm kid.”

In addition to his manager duties, Guinn is going to school to finish his degree. He admitted that it is not easy but he likes his job.

“I’m still in school this year,” Guinn said. “As a manager you are required to put in a 50-hour work week minimum. So I am putting up 50 hours here and 12 credit hours at Iowa State.”

Guinn connects more with his customers in Newton compared to other stores. He listens to his customers and said after January Theisen’s will start carrying firearms.

He may have moved all around the state, but he is not alone. He has a few family members in town.

Matthew Shepard can be contacted at (641) 792-3121 ext. 425 or via email at mshepard@newtondailynews.com.