2021 MW Women of Influence

A celebration o� in�uential �omen in the �ood industr�

Many from across Midwest share insight into their careers

Our loyal readers, particularly those in the Northeast, may be familiar with The Griffin Report of the Northeast’s annual Women of Influence section. Now in its 16th year, the special tribute salutes female executives who are among the leaders in their respective fields.

For years, the popular feature has drawn interest from across the nation. And in response to reader requests, we have expanded Women of Influence this year to include our other four regions – Midwest, Southeast, Southwest and West.

In our November print editions and online, you’ll hear from some inspirational

women as they share advice for up-and-coming professionals, as well as detail some of the challenges and rewards they’ve experienced along the way. In addition, you’ll learn about the defining moments in their careers.

And if you know of a deserving candidate who is not featured this year, don’t worry. We’ll soon be accepting nominations for our 2022 Women of Influence program, which will appear in the second quarter of next year.

In the meantime, join us in the following pages as we celebrate the 2021 Women of Influence in the Midwest.

Julie Anderson

Fresh Encounter Inc. & AR Marketing

Years with the company: 10

Julie Anderson is principal at AR Marketing, a full-service marketing agency based in Findlay, Ohio, which she owns along with her husband, Eric Anderson. Through the agency, she leads marketing efforts for Fresh Encounter Family of Cos., which owns and operates more than 100 grocery stores in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Florida.

In this endeavor, Julie and her team of designers and marketers manage the marketing budget, oversee branding of eight store banners, facilitate content, design and distribution of messaging communicated through all manner of media, print and digital.

She also is a minority owner of Fresh Encounter Inc. and serves on the leadership team of the organization, working alongside some 3,400 associates to delight customers, nourish communities and inspire pride in the team.

As a principal of AR Marketing, she relies on a creative team of designers to bring fresh concepts to life, as design development is not her forte. But she knows what she likes when she sees it.

She brings an analytical sense to the marketing business, facilitating proformas, assisting in strategy and advising design and content work in the grocery sector of the business.

Candie Baker Webster's Marketplace

Years with the company: 11

I have the privilege to be the second-generation owner/operator of Webster’s Marketplace, a family-owned and -operated full-service grocery store serving Ripon, Wisconsin, for the past 34 years.

As a second-generation leader, the most defining moment of my career was the day I kicked my dad out of his office here at the store and fully took the reins of our company.

I am humbled and honored by the team members who helped me grow to lead this company, let me make my own mistakes and now respect me as their leader and choose to be on my team. I love watching people grow.

The most rewarding part of my position is helping, fostering and providing the opportunity for growth. We have seen changes occur at exponential rates as of late. Most likely, this fast-paced evolution will not stop. My challenge is to remain flexible, open minded and willing to change in order to keep our store relevant for our team and our guests.

My best advice is to always remember that our team members are our most precious resources. I am a member of Ripon Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. I serve as president of a local charter school’s governance board and on the Wisconsin Grocer’s Association’s Foundation’s board.

I have a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University.

Stephanie Becker Associated Wholesale Grocers

Years with the company: 16

As chief legal officer/general counsel and member of AWG's executive leadership team, I am honored to be at the center of AWG's continued growth. I have helped lead the development of AWG's new, first-of-its-kind, fully automated warehouse and the launch of the new Upper Midwest Division in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

In partnership with NGA, I have helped lead work on antitrust initiatives to level the playing field for independent grocers. The most rewarding part of my job is working with independent grocers. These retailers have always been key members of their communities and became even more vital to their well-being during the pandemic.

Serving independent retailers is also the most challenging part of my job. Each one has unique needs and meeting these is a daily challenge whether it's a rural, single-store owner or a large company with 100 stores. I love this challenge because it keeps our legal department on top of our game every day.

I've had many amazing mentors over the years, both in law firms and at AWG. Some have never known the profound effect they've had on my career by pushing me to always step up and take on a challenge. Indeed, I've found that you can learn from almost anyone, taking their best attributes and using them to improve yourself and the work you're doing for others.

I have a law degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and a master’s of law from John Marshall Law School.

I am head of sales-large format regional grocery. As I reflect on my 24 years in the CPG industry, the turning point in my career was my first opportunity to lead a large team. This was the catalyst that shaped me into the people-focused leader I would eventually become.

It also helped me clearly see that my true passion was helping people and encouraged me to embrace personal and professional mentorship to guide me through vulnerable times and build my confidence.

Of the many excellent advisors I’ve had throughout my life, my father remains my most instrumental mentor. Our shared mantra is “no plateau,” which still guides me today.

Fast forward to the present, and in my role as head of grocery sales, the most rewarding part of my job remains focused on the people I interact with. I have the opportunity to mentor several associates, and I feel proud and honored that we have those connections and they trust me to help guide their own career journeys.

Our team leads with a people-first mindset by operating with empathy while also driving strategic growth goals. We pride ourselves on having a diverse workforce that embodies the communities that we serve. I have the honor of co-chairing our diversity, inclusion and belonging initiatives for U.S. sales, with an emphasis on driving visibility and engagement to our employee business resource groups. I could not be prouder of our organization and how we have all navigated the challenges we’ve faced together throughout the last 18 months, and firmly believe that our united focus on people has helped us navigate this together.

In closing, I continually encourage aspiring professionals in our industry to not be afraid to use your voice: feel empowered to share your thoughts and solutions to shape the business and ensure we are always evolving and improving.

I have a bachelor’s degree in marketing management from Virginia Tech.

Amy Bosek

Kraft Heinz

Sue Bowden

Valley Cooperative Association

Years with the company: Seven

I am the director of sales and marketing. A defining moment for me was when I decided to "own my career." I began looking at my work as an opportunity to build my capabilities rather than as a job. As my capabilities have grown, so have my roles.

I love that my role allows me the opportunity to deliver excellent customer experiences in a variety of businesses by developing high performing, solution-oriented teams. I enjoy building strong, sustainable partnerships with suppliers and delivering long-term share-holder value to our members.

Our industry is fast paced and always evolving. This requires staying in front of trends to help customers stay relevant to the market.

I tell up-and-coming professionals to embrace all challenges as growth opportunities. Navigating tough situations will allow you to employ your strengths, identify weaknesses, build resiliency and expand vision.

I have been fortunate to have had many mentors due in part to my hunger for learning and continuous improvement. Understanding different points of view has strengthened my communication, decision-making and implementation skills.

My professional and volunteer affiliations include: Executive Agenda, WBA Foundation Board and Washington University ADRC.

I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Lakeland University.

Adrienne Chance SpartanNash

Years with the company: Four months

Adrienne Chance serves as the VP of communications for SpartanNash as well as executive director of the SpartanNash Foundation. She leads internal and external communications, government affairs and charitable giving for a Fortune 400 food solutions company that delivers the ingredients for a better life.

“Supporting the frontline associates who have performed such essential work during this pandemic is the most rewarding part of my job,” Chance said. “As a communicator, I want associates in every corner of the organization to feel inspired by our mission and connected to our people first culture.”

Chance previously served as senior director of corporate communications for Borden Dairy Company. She also established the communications department and led internal and external communications across five global divisions of Topgolf Entertainment Group.

During her six years at Topgolf, she helped grow the company from a small, seven-location regional operation to a global lifestyle brand with more than 50 venues, earning her recognition from PR News as a Top Woman in PR and from Facebook with its Digital Visionary Award.

Chance graduated from the University of Florida and completed leadership training through the Disney Institute. She has served as a Big Sister for Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2015 and was a host parent for an exchange student from Tunisia.

Kim Cates

Associated Wholesale Grocers

Years with the company: Three

I am director of center store sales. Early on, I was allowed to keep my salary and only work 1.5 days per week so I could finish school. The deal was that I would stay with this family-owned Texas grocery company for a year and move wherever they wanted me to move. It was a great opportunity.

Providing a clearing for my team to do their best work and grow beyond what they thought was possible is very rewarding, as is working with our AWG members. They feed America, and I enjoy being a small part of helping them compete in their markets.

The most challenging part of this job is ensuring that all people feel heard and valued and matter.

As for advice – take the feedback, do the work, put your hand up first. Be measured and deliberate with your words, but always speak the truth. Give good news fast – give bad news faster.

Patric Farrell was the first leader to make me believe I could use my influence to help people grow beyond what they think is possible. Pat Brown taught me to be relentless in the pursuit of excellence. Suzy Monford taught me to show up every day the way I want to be perceived. Dan Koch showed me how to harness my experience and ideas and turn them into sales.

I’m a member of the AWG Cares Advisory Committee. My degree is in psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and I was part of the 2021 Executive Leadership Development Program through Cornell University.

Emily Coborn

Coborn's Inc.

Years with the company: 10

I am VP of operations-Eastern region, at Coborn's Inc. Working for Supervalu (now UNFI) prior to Coborn's was a defining moment because it gave me an opportunity to learn about the industry and build professional confidence outside of the family business. It was during this time that my interest in the grocery business turned into a love for the business.

It's rewarding when members of our team learn and grow personally and professionally. It's gratifying to be able to support others as they pursue career and life goals through opportunities at work.

The most challenging part of my role is ensuring that all of our employees understand company decisions and direction so they feel like they have a stake in the game – where they understand the reason behind decisions and are empowered to serve our guests well.

Put in the hard work to learn and grow is my advice. Also, invest in yourself. Be coachable. Understand that, as ambitious you may be, sometimes there's no substitute for time and experience. Take one step at a time.

My parents were early mentors in my career. They modeled that a lot of success in life starts with having strong personal character.

A member of NGA’s board of directors, I have undergraduate degrees in communications and Spanish from College of Saint Benedict and a master's in business administration from the University of Minnesota.

Pamela Coy

Viking Village Foods and related operations

I am owner and general manager of Viking Village Foods and all of our other business operations: Viking Laundromat; BP Viking Express convenience store and sub shop: Viking Liquor; Bronco Billys Bar & Grill VV Properties-shopping center, where we own and lease 11 locations; Billboard Leasing Co.; Viking Farming Operations, which produces black oil sunflower bird seed, sweet corn and pumpkins for sale in our grocery store; car wash with self-service bays, three automatic washes and two pet washes; Pam’s Greenhouses; and a SNAP Fitness location. We also produce field corn (my husband Jeff is managing the farming for me since he retired from road construction).

My defining moment was when I received the National Woman Grocer of 2021. This was just a complete shock and amazing and thrilling. All I could think of was my grandparents and parents and all their time, hard work and struggles they put into the grocery business over the years. They gave me a great opportunity to run with. I’m so thankful to be a grocer, especially after going through COVID-19. I am also thankful for my loyal and dedicated managers and staff who contribute to making our various companies strong.

I love what I do, serving our customers and community. Most rewarding is serving people and their needs. I’m a strong believer in giving back to the area we serve. It has been so supportive.

The most challenging part of my job is dealing with the demands from COVID and trying to balance different opinions and appease everyone; also, trying to follow the science and do what’s best for employees and customers. Product shortages is getting to be a balancing act, as are equipment delays.

Sarah Decorah

Wisconsin Grocers Association

Years with the company: 18

It is truly an honor to be nominated among the many distinguished women of influence in the food industry. Thank you to WGA President & CEO Brandon Scholz for nominating me, as well as Cheryl Lytle and Michelle Kussow from our association.

Our staff of four has 91 years collectively working for the WGA and representing Wisconsin's grocery industry.

The WGA exists (since 1900) because of our members and the team effort we as a staff put forth on behalf of those members – whether it's WGA events, government affairs, member education or dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

We all may have individual roles, but together we work to continue to strive toward our goal in keeping the Wisconsin Grocers Association strong and moving forward.

I very much appreciate this award recognition from The Shelby Report of the Midwest, but also want to thank those I work with, including all of our tremendous WGA members. Working for a trade association is all about teamwork and you truly are only as good as your team.

I believe Andrew Carnegie's quote says it best: "Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results."

Shaquanda Shari' Gordon SpartanNash

Years with the company: One

My position(s) are public relations specialist and franchise operations director. I coordinate events, playbooks, presentations, nominations, strategies and attend meetings to gather information. I recruit and hire companywide and develop franchise operations. I also assist with social media platforms.

I have two defining moments. The first one was my decision to make Dick’s Fresh Market a career. My mother was diagnosed with cancer and passed in 2018. During that time, I was her hospice care provider. Our company owner, Doug Rinehart, reassured me that I could maintain my full-time status with the company while caring for my mother. That idefined excellent, humanistic leadership in my mind.

The second moment in my career was the recognition that our company received as Grand Master Marketers in 2019. I fell in love with the dedication from our leadership team. Knowing and working with our people is the most rewarding part of my job. I have an associate’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in organizational psychology, which I use daily. I love recruiting, interviewing, hosting events and the opportunity to meet new people. Using our company as a platform to give back to the communities we serve is a large part of our culture.

The most challenging part about my job is managing the multiple avenues of employee connections without missing an opportunity. Advice I would give to any professional new to the industry: make yourself passionate about your people. Work with your co-workers; don’t be afraid to ask what you can do better. In the grocery industry, sometimes we don’t just do our job, we do the job that needs to be done.

Although, I am still early in my career in this industry, I am fortunate to be surrounded by wonderful mentors. Our company owner, Doug Rinehart, embodies an admirable passion for what he does every day. I loved working with Alan Alden, our former general manager, and learned a lot from his guidance and style. Our current operations director/general manager, Randy Roosa, also is a business mentor of mine. I observe, admire and strive to learn a lot of his leadership style and strategy.

I am VP of human resources, talent and diversity. For so long I shied away from DEI for reasons both personal and professional, but I needed a change and I had been wanting a role that would stretch and challenge me.

A few years ago, a former boss reached out to me to ask if I would come and lead the development and execution of the companies national diversity strategy. It was in this moment that I realized this was where my purpose and contributions to humanity would meet my professional goals. Though challenging, it has truly been the most rewarding work I have done in my career.

Designing and developing solutions to meet our talent needs has always been a passion of mine. My current role allows me to create holistic solutions across all associate, interfacing HR teams to ensure a seamless and engaging experience.

My advice: Don't be consumed by the pressure of having it all. Define your own version of success and be sure to enjoy life and family while working to achieve it.

My professional and volunteer affiliations include: member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority; director for Women’s Resource Center of Grand Rapids; Grand Rapids NAACP executive committee; Certified Diversity Executive; professional in Human Resources; and Society Human Resources Certified Professional.

I have an MBA from Davenport University and a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University.

Michelle Donnelly Dick's Fresh Market

Lisa Grudzielanek

Metcalfe's Market

Years with the company: Six

As the assistant director of operations with Metcalfe’s Markets, I have the privilege to work with an incredible team.

Every day, I learn from the decades of experience of our fourth-generation owners. They have given me the space and trust to explore what needs improvement and provide support with what I need along the way. A role where no two days are ever the same is a rewarding aspect of my position.

Leading during a pandemic was certainly a challenge, however working for a 105-year-old, family-owned business that led with love made all the difference.

What I believe has been helpful to my success is to listen as much as speak the truth. People should know where you stand. Don’t be afraid to offer a point of view, even if it isn’t the prevailing thought at the time.

I passionately go to the bat for our team members, and I am determined to offer the best experience for our shoppers.

When I look back six years ago, running my own consulting business as registered dietitian, I could not have predicted my current career in grocery, but it happened so naturally.

My love for people, food and grocery shopping, along with a varied business and science background landed perfectly for an operations role with Metcalfe’s Market.

I have a master’s degree from the University of Bridgeport and a bachelor’s degree from Mount Mary University.

Kari Hansen

Hansen's IGA Markets

Years with the company: 25

I work with a team that manages and creates advertising for Hansen’s IGA Markets. My scope of work includes developing content for print, weekly circulars and our digital offerings. My role also includes coordinating and sourcing product from local growers for our seasonal greenhouses, outdoor fall displays and floral departments. Helping serve our customers and operating a business in uncertain times because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve had to work with urgency and creativity in a world of uncertainty and much of what we face is new.

Being part of a great team that actively works together to serve our guests and have a positive impact in our local communities is most rewarding.

This ever-changing world creates new challenges for our teams to connect with the customer whenever and however they choose to shop.

My advice for up-and-coming professionals: Never stop learning. Always be open to ideas from people of all ages and skill sets.

In addition to serving our customers and neighbors through Hansen’s many community relations activities, I volunteer in our local school, with 4-H and at church.

I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Diane Guerrero

Associated Wholesale Grocers

Years with the company: Three

I am business development manager for Associated Wholesale Grocers in Kansas City, Kansas.

It is hard to point to one defining moment as so many unique experiences have shaped my career. The most impressive transformation over time has been the overall impact of technology, innovation in digital and interactive marketing.

I have been fortunate to work in an industry that I love. Most rewarding are the personal relationships developed along the way. My passion is working with the independent stores, family owners and stakeholders. I am enamored by their motivation, dedication and commitment to their businesses and each other.

Most challenging is how the competitive landscape is always changing and evolving coupled with unprecedented impacts of COVID-19. It has changed the way we go to market, improved our overall agility and will leave a lasting imprint on all.

Advice: stay relevant, grow and embrace the digital future. Be compassionate, conscientious and courageous. Embrace technology, innovation and continuous improvement in everything you do.

I have been fortunate to work under many strong leaders throughout my career and am especially grateful to be part of a growth organization led by David Smith, a truly dynamic and strategic leader.

My affiliations include WGA, IFRA, IRMA and IGIA, while my degrees are ABA, BSBA with IT minor and an MBA.

Janice Honigberg

Sun Belle Inc.

Years with the company: 35

I am the founder, owner and president of Sun Belle Inc., an importer and distributor of fresh produce specializing in berries. I founded the company in January 1986.

The defining moment of my career was the decision to start my own business to represent growers and tackle the inefficiencies in distribution of imported fresh produce including logistics and information flow.

I enjoy introducing new products and packs to market, providing good returns to growers, being a reliable partner to our customers and helping them build their markets through supplying excellent quality product and building a national organization.

Distributing and marketing fresh produce in and of itself is a constant challenge. As for advice – work with determination and dedication, don't skirt the details, stay curious and never be complacent.

My mentors include my father, a multilingual world traveler who launched an export company at about the age I started my company and built it with passion and great ability. My mother is a concert pianist who has worked with unparalleled discipline and dedication.

Affiliations include: U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, board member and promotions committee; life trustee of Merit School of Music, Chicago; board member Pilgrim Chamber Players, Highland Park, Illinois; and governing member, Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

I have a bachelor’s degree from Yale and an MBA from Harvard.

Heidi A. Huff

IGA

Years with the company: 13

I am the VP of business partnerships at IGA, USA. The most rewarding thing about what I do is bringing big brand attention and funding to independent retailers, giving them opportunities they may not otherwise get from these companies.

Working with independents is so rewarding and challenging at the same time. We are working hard to help them, while they are working so hard and are so busy that finding the time to see what we offer can be tough, especially in today's environment.

A defining moment in my career was becoming a female executive in the grocery world. This has traditionally been a male-dominated business and I am proud to be here and see that begin to change with women shining in roles throughout the industry.

Any young woman who is interested in any facet of the grocery business can make her way. Be strong, courageous and don't be afraid to speak up.

I am grateful to the people who have helped pave the way for me to grow in this business and given me opportunities. I am fortunate to have supervisors both past and present who have mentored me and believed in what I can achieve. I am a member of Chief, executive board member of WGA, NGA Board of Regents member and active in my church.

Jody Kotab

GF Buche Co.

Years with the company: 24

My current position is director of human resources. My defining moment of my career would be this last year with juggling home schooling because of a pandemic, a full-time job and adding multiple locations along with my husband gone for a deployment.

The most rewarding parts of my job are taking time for our team members, leading them in orientation and working with them with our benefits.

The challenging part of my job would be to find the time to help when issues arise with 400 team members and juggling other tasks.

The advice I would like to share with up-and-coming professionals is to lead with your heart, be genuine and a great listener. Mentors in my career would be my mom, who showed me how to multitask as a farmer’s wife and a mother of nine. She is very patient and hard working.

Another mentor would be the president of our company, RF Buche, who has guided me in knowing the business and saw many things in myself that I didn't always see.

Professional and volunteer affiliations that I am involved with are a new nonprofit day care board; HR Share group; compliance officer for Money Grams; notary; and certified cast trainer. I have an associate’s degree in early childhood development.

Anna Johnson Kraft

Heinz

I am head of field category leadership-grocery area. I’ve worked in sales at Kraft Heinz for most of my career and lead a team of 22 category experts who serve as consultants for our retailers by helping them win in the marketplace through optimized distribution and shelving.

Despite the challenges we often encounter, I take pride in providing my team with the tools, guidance and empowerment they need to succeed, while keeping us focused on long-term goals to overcome the obstacles we face.

Personal growth and people have always been my passions. In my career, I’ve played a leadership role on internal teams that focus on people development, including a mentoring program, our Women’s Sales Council and a sales engagement task force.

We create action plans that drive inclusion and belonging in a time when in-person interaction is minimal, which enables authentic interactions, sharing of voices, and added exposure to help build stronger networks across the organization.

I often reflect on a career defining moment that took place three years ago when I assumed my current role. I was excited to stretch myself and develop new leadership skills but was also admittedly terrified. I felt insecure in my ability to lead a team in a function where I had no prior experience and questioned whether I was making a positive impact.

Working with an external coach, I realized I was too focused on my perceived gaps and decided to instead leverage my strengths, knowing this is where I’d make the biggest impact. I also consulted with trusted colleagues and mentors, who encouraged me by sharing their own experiences with self-doubt.

Michelle Kussow

Wisconsin Grocers Association

Years with the company: 24

I currently serve as the EVP for the Wisconsin Grocers Association.

A defining moment in my career relates to personal property tax. In 2015, I created a coalition of 51 business groups to repeal Wisconsin’s “Mainstreet” Tax. In 2017, we successfully advocated for a $75 million exemption for machinery from the tax.

In 2021, the coalition was instrumental in efforts to pass legislation that fully repealed the personal property tax, which was ultimately vetoed by the governor.

The most rewarding part of my job is the members. Grocers are the best people out there. They love their communities, they’re humble and hardworking. I truly enjoy representing the grocery industry.

On the other end of this spectrum is the most challenging part of my job, which is politics. I’m referring to the political minutia that encompasses every issue. This is a reason why people quip that laws are like sausages – you never want to see either being made.

My advice for any up-and-coming professionals, in any career or industry, is to not take yourself too seriously.

I don’t necessarily have a mentor, but having worked with WGA President & CEO Brandon Scholz for 24 years, it would be impossible to say that I haven’t learned a thing or two from him.

I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin Platteville.

Cheryl Lytle

Wisconsin Grocers Association

Years with the company: 22

As the events director of the Wisconsin Grocers Association, I work with the WGA Board Events committee to determine the annual events and twists that make each one unique. Education, vendor connections, promotions and fun are key to having participants return each year.

WGA annual events include: Grocers in the Capitol Day; two Grocery Industry Golf Outings; a Day in the Field (pheasant hunt); and annual Grocers Innovation Expo.

I also help produce the Wisconsin Grocer Magazine, a magazine with locally written articles featuring WGA members. WGA also produces several weekly marketing emails to help members stay current on industry and association news.

I enjoy working with vendor companies to help connect them with the grocery industry in Wisconsin through customized program to promote their company and products and services with WGA events, print and digital promotion.

I have a bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, where the foundation of providing service was taught, and it has always been one of my core values. I'm also obtaining credits to take the Certified Association Executive exam in 2022.

Kristina Maurer

Maurer's Market

Years with the company: 10

My current title is vice president, which in a small family business means, anything and everything that needs to be done – from cashier and pricing to HR and cook.

The most challenging part of the job is the current environment that we live in. Running a grocery store during the COVID-19 pandemic has created conditions that have never been seen before. New norms are being created, staffing and customer challenges, supply and shipping issues. They all create a new normal. You cannot apply old logic to new conditions, which makes it every day a battle.

This business is difficult, it is challenging and can be rewarding. You need thick skin, but tears will still happen. It helps to have: the confidence to fail; be always in the pursuit of sales growth; intelligence to learn from mistakes; and the ability to self-reflect, so you can continue to grow, learn and inspire. The person you are at the beginning of your career is never the person you are at the end of it and the ability to self-reflect gets you through the journey.

I chair the WGA Education and Scholarship Foundation and am president of Gio's Garden, which is a nonprofit in Madison, Wisconsin, that provides respite care to children (birth to 6 years old) with special needs.

I have a bachelor’s degree from Saint Mary's CollegeNotre Dame and an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Amy McClellan SpartanNash

As of VP of fresh merchandising, Amy plays a key role in developing the vision of fresh product categories to ensure success for SpartanNash’s more than 150 company-owned stores and 2,100 independent retail locations.

She is responsible for the overall product assortment strategy in addition to delivering the highest quality products and solutions to meet and anticipate customers’ ever-changing ap-petites. She is passionate about developing talent and leading teams of grocery subject matter experts.

Defining career moment: After serving as SVP of retail merchandising and operations at Martin's Super Markets and achieving three consecutive years of positive comparable store sales growth, she finished her 20-year journey at Martin's in 2018 by serving as the company's executive marketing, merchandising and operations subject matter expert. In that role, she hosted management presentations and store tours for potential buyers, which ultimately led to a successful sale of the 20-store chain to SpartanNash.

Advice for young professionals: Be bold and brave with your ideas; stay close to your frontline associates.

Early career mentors: former (retired) Martin's leaders: Randy Holtzinger, VP sales and marketing; Ed Osowski, director of produce

She serves on the board of directors for Buehler Food Markets and has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Indiana University.

Tiffany Menyhart

Kraft Heinz

I am head of sales, strategic accounts and U.S. retail. The most rewarding part of my job is encouraging the development of my team members while navigating the business transformation we are driving at Kraft Heinz.

The most challenging part of my role is staying focused on our long-term growth plans while balancing the day-to-day challenges facing our industry. We strive to deliver the "now" while developing strategic growth plans and category-enhancing solutions for the future.

I began my career in consulting, where I developed a learning agility. I'm proud to have excelled in roles across a variety of functions while always seeking continuous improvement opportunities.

Although every role I’ve held has been a steppingstone, the most defining position I’ve had was leading the U.S. category leadership organization for Wrigley, then Mars Wrigley. It was not part of my "plan," required enhanced strategic planning, large team engagement and the ability to set aspirational goals – ultimately resulting in top industry recognition for the company.

I've had internal sponsors and external mentors, including a few from Network of Executive Women. NEW is a nonprofit where I have volunteered for 15 years, and currently serve as executive co-chair in Chicago.

I’m also proud to co-lead internal efforts focused on our diversity, inclusion and belonging mission, and supply reliability within U.S. sales.

I have two bachelor’s degrees from Vanderbilt University.

Amy Niemetscheck

Certco Inc.

Years with the company: 10

I am the current president and CEO of Certco Inc., a retailer-owned food distributor in Madison, Wisconsin. Prior to Certco, I was an auditor for several years working for a regional CPA firm and Certco was one of my clients.

The most defining moment of my career was when I concluded that my role in accounting and finance at Certco was great but I wanted to do more. I determined I have passion for the independent grocer and our wholesale business, as well as the amazing retail owners we are so fortunate to support. I wanted to see them all succeed.

I am so very fortunate to lead an organization where I truly feel my own personal values match that of the expectation I have of all employees and our stores. These values include teamwork, integrity and passion.

Having strong mentors can help shape your own leadership style and I was blessed to have several in my career. Most impactful was that of Randall Simon.

When I'm not loving my daily job at Certco, I'm putting every ounce of my time with my family. I have three beautiful children and a wonderful and supporting husband who love all things sports related.

Finding balance for yourself and your career are necessary. Work smarter, not longer, and you will be able to feel both buckets – career and personal – are filled.

Tracy Ohl

Post Consumer Brands

Years with the company: 15

Tracy is senior key account manager for Post, which represents breakfast items in the cereal category, including cereal, snacks, granola and hot items. Some of the largest brands include Honey Bunches of Oats, Pebbles and Malt-O-Meal Bags. She is located in the Midwest and calls on some of the largest indirect accounts serviced by AWG.

The most rewarding part of her job is working with her customers and internal sales team. She enjoys seeking out opportunities and then working with customers to increase their sales and profits.

She says she is extremely fortunate to work with a group of people that are excellent at their jobs. They have a good process for identifying opportunities, providing data-driven presentations, and executing those plans on the shelf.

If she were to advise anyone coming up in this business, it would be to hold yourself to a standard of excellent follow-up. Meet deadlines. Do what you say you are going to do. Make sure you are communicating. Help others along. If you have a good idea, share it with your team. Don't be afraid to reach out to others for help. Finally, be audacious in your ask. If you can back up what you are asking for, you just may get it.

Tracy is a former president of the St. Louis Area Food Association. She has a degree in marketing from Illinois State University.

Maggie O’Quinn

Midan Marketing

Years with the company: Five

As new business development manager, I am the liaison between Midan and new clients. It’s my job to invite new clients into our agency. The meat industry is built on relationships, and I love that I get to build new relationships weekly in this dynamic business.

When the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown occurred, we sprang into action to help our current clients navigate the disruption. As a company and a new business team, we realized our niche as a meat-focused marketing agency deeply mattered.

I love connecting the big global dots of our business-to-business meat industry supply chain to bring our clients’ visions to life and help them tell their stories.

As for challenges, I get paid to fail forward every day. For every “yes” we receive from a new client, I get the opportunity to hear at least 10 “no’s.” It has taught me resilience and humility.

Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Stay curious. Ask big questions. Seek mentors from different backgrounds. Celebrate and live in your strengths.

I have a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications from the University of Georgia.

The defining moment of my career came earlier this year when I transitioned from the founder and president of a boutique marketing and communications firm to VP of marketing and public affairs for IGA.

Although I had worked for IGA as a consultant for the past 20 years, it was a big step to for me to hand off clients from various industries and devote all my time to the grocery industry and IGA.

The reason I chose to do so was simple: Over the course of the last decade, I’ve watched the grocery industry as a whole – and IGA in particular – begin an important evolution that has made it more progressive, innovative and ultimately more inclusive.

From FMI and NGA to The Shelby Report, countless CPG companies and, most importantly, the stores themselves, we’re seeing talented, confident women of all ages break through the industry’s long-established glass ceiling. They are bringing with them invaluable insights that are reshaping everything from how the industry manages and develops people to the way we market to shoppers.

And while I think everyone would agree we still have a long way to go, it’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of that evolution, and to be supported by so many – men and women alike – who are dedicating their professional lives to making the grocery industry a noble and enjoyable place to work.

Kristin Popp Woodman's Food Markets

I am EVP for Woodman’s Food Markets. All experiences have defined me in some way.

The team I work with, learn from, connect with and watch grow is the most rewarding. Being a part of an amazing team that has stepped up during the unknown to serve the communities we are a part of has been beyond inspiring.

Time is my biggest challenge. There is never enough.

My advice is to be fierce in all you do. Find your passion and pursue it every day. Seek feedback constantly to continue to grow. Ask questions. Listen. Surround yourself with people that challenge you. Step outside of your comfort zone at times and take advantage of opportunity, create opportunity. Make a difference.

I have had several mentors, but a few stand out. John Adams, our previous VP of operations, took me under his wing early on to allow me to grow into who I am today, believing in me and teaching me about the company, leadership and myself. Also influential have been Phil and Clint Woodman, our CEO and president. Working with and learning from two generations of the Woodman family has been impactful.

I sit on the board of directors, currently serving as president, for Women Grocers of America. I have a degree in business administration and have completed the Executive Leadership Development Program through Cornell University.

Jen Schultz

Post Consumer Brands

Years with the company: Seven

I am VP of sales strategy. After nearly 10 years in merchandising at a major retailer, I took the leap to go work for a supplier. Being able to leverage my experiences on the buying side of the table helped shape the go-to-market approach and built the foundation for my passion in sales strategy.

My role bridges the strategy to execution, which gives me the opportunity to work across many functions and directly with the retailers. Working with a wide range of people enables me to learn something new every day.

The incredible pace of change is both the most challenging and most exciting part of my job. Watching the industry evolve in consumer mindset, channel shifting, product innovation and marketing tactics certainly keeps us all on our toes.

Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Expand your network, embrace new experiences and always be curious.

Professional and volunteer affiliations: advisory positions in the Women's Development Network and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.

I have bachelor's degrees in finance and economics from University of St. Thomas.

Heather Sigmon Fairlife

Years with the company: One

I am customer commercial lead-NAOU South Zone with fairlife. In 2010, while at Consolidated Bottling, I was promoted to a sales operations lead role for large store. As the first female to take the role, it was considered a trailblazing move. Transitioning from a foodservice role, I was clearly out of my comfort zone, charged with learning a new vernacular and sales/operational strategy, while leading a large team.

In the beginning, I conformed to the traditional role standards, was intimidated and out of place. But when I decided to be my authentic self, I quickly began to realize that my skill sets, ideologies and enthusiastic approach could allow me the opportunity to rewrite the blueprint for role functionality, proficiency and definition of success.

Authenticity is key working in the regional large store space. It allows me the opportunity to create customer-centric programming to maximize white space opportunities for long-term/game-changing strategies. I love my team.

Work-life harmony is important. Be enthusiastic, be inquisitive and be happy. If you're not happy, move on, as this should be fun.

My mom and dad are my mentors, since my first job at age 14 and still today I proudly serve as field chair for fairlife Women's LINC. We are creating a culture that applauds diversity, supports safe spaces for expression and fosters positivity.

I have a bachelor’s degree from Lenoir Rhyne University.

Cindy Sorensen

The Grocery Group

Years with the company: Four

I am humbled to be recognized as a “Woman of Influence” in the grocery industry. I thank my nominator and The Shelby Report for this recognition. I have been a “grocery geek” for the past 39 years. This is absolutely a highlight of my career.

I started in this industry in 1983 and was one of only a few women representing it. I often was the only woman in the room for a meeting, convention and food show, or the only woman in the lobby of a retailer or wholesaler, waiting for my appointment.

Much has changed in the last 39 years, and much has stayed the same. I never asked for special treatment as a woman, just equal treatment. It has been my goal throughout my career to help women, who have followed after me in this industry, to be successful in their careers by developing strategic business thought and practices.

I often received outreach from job recruiters who described a client this way, “They really want to hire a woman.” I was not interested in those positions, as I worked diligently to be recognized for my accomplishments. Yes, there were challenges along the way, and I use those experiences to help others navigate their way in similar circumstances.

Nanette Strennen Certco Inc.

Years with the company: 3.5

I am VP and CFO. A defining moment of my career was reaching my goal of becoming a CFO. Not only did I achieve it, but I am fortunate to work for a company I love in an industry that I’m passionate about.

One of the things I find most rewarding about my current position is people leadership. I get a great deal of gratification from developing, mentoring and inspiring members of Certco’s accounting team, as well as others at the company.

Like most leaders these days, what I find most challenging is working to get the day-to-day tasks done while at the same time planning and strategizing for the future.

Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Always welcome constructive criticism. You can’t develop professionally if you don’t know what you should be working on.

Since joining the grocery industry, Amy Niemetscheck, Certco’s CEO, has been my mentor. She is an amazing leader who has taught me nearly everything I know about the business.

Professional affiliations: Wisconsin Grocers Association; National Grocers Association; Retailer Owned Food Distributors & Associates; and Financial Executives International.

Volunteer affiliations: I give back in any way I can to hospice care organizations. After experiencing hospice care at the end of both my parents’ lives, I have tremendous respect for the work they do.

I have bachelor’s degree and am a CPA.

Donna Tweeten

Hy-Vee Inc.

Years with the company: 15

Donna Tweeten is EVP and chief of staff for Hy-Vee and president of Hy-Vee Marketing & Media.

She has been a key leader in helping to build the Hy-Vee brand. Her leadership and innovative skills continue to help the company as it moves into the future.

At the heart of her role is overseeing adaptive branding, marketing and communications strategies that resonate with shoppers.

She has positioned Hy-Vee as an experiential, customer-focused retailer through creative communications efforts, both new and traditional.

Tweeten has a bachelor's degree from Drake University and is a graduate of the Kellogg School of Management’s Executive Leadership program at Northwestern University.

Alex Tyre

Midan Marketing

Years with the company: Four

As account supervisor, I lead an account services team that serves as liaison between our clients and our agency departments, ranging from consumer insights and marketing trends to public relations, and creative design to web development and social media management. I love my role because I can unite multiple teams – both internally and externally – toward a common goal of driving more business for our clients and ultimately championing the value of meat.

After working in the marketing department at JBS USA, I was offered the opportunity to work as the product line manager of ground beef. The role challenged me to quickly gain in-depth knowledge of the product, production and sales.

The most rewarding element of my role is to serve as an extension of our clients’ teams. I am passionate about brainstorming a plan and leading execution to deliver results.

The biggest challenge is making sure that my team and our key contacts are staying up to date with consumers and overall market trends as the industry evolves.

Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Never think you’re finished learning. Be a sponge and absorb the knowledge and experience from those around you. Always ask questions.

I have two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Georgia, where I’m a member of the alumni association, and a Certificate in Change Leadership from Cornell University.

Georgia Van Gundy

Hy-Vee Inc.

Years with the company: Two

Georgia Van Gundy is EVP, chief administrative officer and chief customer officer, a role that she began just months before the COVID-19 pandemic began.

While it has been challenging to get to know her colleagues and spend time in stores due to COVID, it has been rewarding to know that the work Hy-Vee is doing is positively impacting the lives of its 91,000 employees, as well as its customers throughout the company's eight-state region.

Her dad was her mentor early in her career, and one of the most defining moments was taking an important role that she had no experience in. The opportunity changed her career and taught her that she can take on things she might not have experience doing.

That's a message Van Gundy hopes to share with young professionals: work hard, don't be afraid to take on new challenges and be true to yourself.

Van Gundy has a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. She is a board member of United Way of Central Iowa, Unity Point Foundation, BRAVO and the Greater Des Moines Partnership, and is also a governor-appointed member of the Iowa Board of Education and the STEM Advisory Council.

Jennifer Williams Weiland's Market

Years with the company: 10

I am owner of Weiland's Market with my husband of 31 years, Scott Bowman. A defining moment for me was deciding to leave corporate America after 20 years to become a fourth-generation grocer.

Helping team members be successful, personally and professionally is most rewarding. Challenges would include everything COVID-19-related (mask politics, staffing, product availability, staff mental and physical health). Making time for myself.

Advice: Find your inner direction and voice and use them. Don't stop learning. Keep an open mind. Realize you don't have all the answers. Set a good example. Don't sit behind a desk. Work hard with your team and learn from them. Take care of your mental and physical health. Don't be afraid to make mistakes (but not the same ones over and over). Do the best you can every day to make your tiny part of the world a better place.

Mentors: My husband and my parents. Professionally, no "official" mentors. However, I learned from a lot of smart women in leadership positions in business who gave me opportunities along the way (at JPMorgan Chase), government and community and the grocery industry.

Professional and volunteer organizations: vice chair of the Ohio Grocers Association; advisory member, Experience Clintonville.

I have a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University.

Kristin Williams

Hy-Vee Inc.

Years with the company: 28

I am EVP, chief health officer and president of Amber Specialty Pharmacy.

Being chosen to lead and start our pharmacy fulfillment operation was an early defining moment in my career. This gave me the foundation to learn how to build a business from scratch. This also catapulted my knowledge of manufacturing, supply chain and logistics.

The most rewarding part of my role is how many lives we are positively impacting throughout the communities we are serving.

One major way is dispensing and administering preventative or life-saving medications and vaccines throughout the country. I have the privilege to work for and support our teams whose focus and dedication is unwavering.

I began my career with Hy-Vee in 1993. I serve on: the Iowa Pharmacy Association board of directors; the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy’s board of directors; the Food Industry Association’s Health and Wellness Council; and as a National Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation board member.

I have a doctor of pharmacy degree from Drake University.

Emilie Williamson

Roundy’s Supermarkets

Years with the company: Nine

I am division corporate affairs manager for Roundy’s Supermarkets, a division of Kroger.

On July 1, 2020, I became a registered dietitian nutritionist. Going back to school was a daunting decision at this point in my career. Getting there required me to attend classes to obtain a certificate in dietetics, complete more than 1,100 internship hours and pass the registration exam.

Passionate about food and nutrition, I felt it important to have the credentials to speak as an expert. In my role with Roundy’s, I work collaboratively with people across our business and communities. Together, we elevate and highlight our industry success, support communities and spotlight nutrition.

I would encourage up-and-coming professionals to celebrate their differences. We can so easily let our own insecurities hinder us. However, that’s not what got you the job or a place on the cross-functional team. It is the differences between us that allow for constructive dis-agreements and creative ideas to emerge. Celebrate and have confidence in what sets you apart.

In addition to the workplace, I’m able to use my experience in grocery and education in dietetics to support other organizations. I’m currently the state media rep for Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and recently joined the nutrition policy steering group for Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin.

Michelle Harrington

Albrecht Foods

Years with the company: 25

I am the president and co-owner of Albrecht Foods. We are a family-owned business that my parents started in 1986. I worked in all departments while I earned my degree in education.

I taught high school for six years before starting my family, having two great kids, then entering the family business full time. I learned every aspect of grocery from the mentoring of my parents.

The most challenging aspect of my position has been the many decisions that had to be made during the this time with COVID-19. Each day presented a new challenge on how to keep our employees and customers safe. It has been a daily challenge and at the same time the most rewarding.

The relationship with my employees and customers gives me great satisfaction each day. I am the chair of the Wisconsin Grocers Association, which I take great pride in. I have also volunteered in coaching multiple sports and student mentoring programs.

Deb Yerkes

Zone Mechanical North Years with the company: 11

I am the general manager. There have been plenty of moments over the course of my career that have certainly made a difference. Given the reins of the Wisconsin division with the task of growing it, is something that I feel has truly made a huge impact.

The most rewarding part of my job is being connected to each facet of our business and working with each manager – individually and collectively – to make our company stronger and better every day. That also happens to be the most challenging part.

My advice, which is the same that I give my children: work hard and do your best each and every day. There will be challenges, there will be disappointments, but you work through them and will be better it.

Frank Petrosino and Dan Palubiak, the original owners of Zone Mechanical, most definitely have been influences, helping me understand the grocery business, as well as having the confidence in me to grow it; also, Brandon Scholz, the WGA team and members who have been wonderful and instrumental. My family and my husband of 32 years, John, for always being my support and anchor.

I have a bachelor's degree from Lewis University.

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The �helby congratulat��eport

in�uential �omen in the �ood industr�

Shelby Publishing is expanding our popular Women of Influence section from the Northeast to the other four regions of the nation. Look for the following outstanding female leaders from across the country to be featured in our upcoming November editions…

SOUTHEAST

Michelle Almarode

Josanna Busby

Cammie Chatterton

Tekla Toohey Cutlip

Melissa Eads

Katie Georges

Beth Governale

Lucy Greer

Tiffany Jackson

Lindsay Koch

Lindsey Kueffner

Kathy Kuzava

Megan Lacroix

Ellen McGeeney

Cherri Means

Alison Pierce

Jill Robertson

Lynn Rushing

Lori Spencer

Ellie Taylor

LeeAnn Taylor

Kristin Thayer

Bethany Timmes

NORTHEAST

Jaime Audiss

Twyla Bailey

Ashley Cox

Jessi East

Alona Florenz

Kimberly Snow

Katerina Thompson

Maria Wilson

Emily Zraunig

SOUTHWEST

Taylor Avery

Dawnna Bowen

Angel Brown

Deborah Brown

Noma Burr

Julie Butner

Jessica Carreno

Nikki Carver

Mary Lou Chapman

Barbara Charlet

Michelle Davalos

Suan Grant

Charise Gutierrez

April Henry

Beth Hoffer

Rosemary Jones

Merrilee Kick

Kathleen Krantz

Christy Lara

Elizabeth Hoffer

Theresa Motter

Gena Norris

Rita Reid

Emily Shuping

Cheryl Pick Sommer

Courtney Talbot

Elisabeth "Liz" Urtado-Holzheauser

WEST

Julie Adam

Cynthia Alt

Diane Badame

Kim Brower

Robin Burgin

Carmen Dauer

Odete Da Silva

Sheila DyJuanco

Jennifer Fisher

Sandy Garcia

Stacy Geck

Evelyn Gonzalez

Lauren Johnson

Tracy Lape

Kayla Leganza

Ana Macias

Yvonne Manganaro

Adriana Martinez

Katie McCarron

Taylor Nations

Hee-Sook Nelson

Julia Plotts

Maddalena Riboli

Angela Rosenquist

Donna Simpson

Jacquie Slobom

Kathleen Triou

Donna Tyndall