Meet the UVCS Associates Driving Exceptional Resident Experiences

How leadership, teamwork, and service continue to strengthen the communities we proudly serve.

At Urban Value Corner Store, our associates are the heart of everything we do. Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving residents help bring our mission to life every day — improving the living experiences of the communities we serve.

One associate who continues to make a tremendous impact is Rene Hernandez, who joined Urban Value Corner Store in February 2024. Through his dedication, leadership, and focus on the resident experience, Rene quickly established himself as an important part of the UVCS team and was promoted to District Manager in October 2025.

“I stepped away from the retail industry for a couple of years, but after trying something different, I realized I wanted to get back into the retail space,” Rene shared. “When I found Urban Value Corner Store and learned more about what the company was about, it felt like the perfect opportunity to get back into doing something I truly enjoy — teamwork and seeing firsthand how your work can make a positive impact.”

Before joining UVCS, Rene spent seven years in management with QuikTrip, where he developed strong operational and leadership experience. He also worked as a lead trainer in the warehouse manufacturing industry, helping teams grow and succeed through accountability and development. Those experiences helped shape the leadership style he brings to Urban Value today.

For Rene, the most rewarding part of the job is the relationships built within the communities UVCS serves. “The best part of the job has been the team and the relationships we build with our customers,” he said. “Working in the stores allows us to connect with people we see daily, and it’s rewarding hearing how happy they are to have us in the community and nearby for their everyday needs.”

As a District Manager, Rene continues to reinforce the importance of teamwork, accountability, and resident-focused service throughout his team. His leadership reflects the culture Urban Value Corner Store strives to create across every location. “If you’re looking for a company where your voice can make a difference, where you can build great relationships, and where you enjoy a customer-facing role, this is the right place to be,” Rene said. “You can truly see your hard work pay off — not only through the numbers, but also through the positive comments from residents and new customers walking into the store for the first time.”

Rene’s journey is a great example of the opportunities available at Urban Value Corner Store for associates who are passionate about service, leadership, and creating exceptional resident experiences.