A celebration o� in�uential �omen in the �ood industr�
Twenty-six from across Southeast share insight into their careers
Our loyal readers, particularly those in the Southeast, 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 – West, Midwest, Southeast and Southwest.
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 Southeast.
Michelle Almarode
The Fresh Market Years with the company: Two
My current position as VP of FP&A allows me to manage a team that supports all the functions across the company and across our full network. Together, the team provides critical business insights and analysis that guide short-term commercial decisions, as well as long-term strategic direction for the company.
Most rewarding about my current position: Working with the team to bring our insights to life. In the past year, we have transformed a lot of our processes and reporting to be more insightful and impactful. Seeing the impact of our work on day-today decision making and seeing the team's growth over the year has been incredibly rewarding.
Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Be curious. Ask questions. Seek to understand how things work and why they work that way. The opportunities to impact are endless, you just need to find them.
Mentor early in career: I had a general manager who gave me confidence to take my seat at the table and voice my opinion. She was humble, empathetic and kind, but was also a decisive and strong leader. I think about her often and try to instill what I learned from her.
Professional and Volunteer Affiliations: WAVE (Women's BRG) at The Fresh Market. I have a bachelor's degree from University of Virginia.
Josanna Busby Food Lion
Years with the company: 16
I am category manager for seafood and packaged meats.
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the plans and programs my team develops executed at store level. Also, very rewarding is the development of my team or associates I help mentor across our organization, to see them grow and take on new responsibilities.
Balance is the most challenging part of my job. Managing time to meet existing and new priorities. Our business is ever changing and fast paced. I must keep my priorities organized so we continue to meet the needs of our customers and financial objectives.
Advice: Enjoy what you do. Have a plan and vision for what you want in your career, but don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. Be confident in yourself, work with mentors and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – learn from them.
Throughout my career, I have had mentors that have influenced my career in many ways by providing support and offering honest and constructive feedback.
Professional and volunteer affiliations: Network of Executive Women and NC Phi Beta Lambda Professional Division board member.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University.
Cammie Chatterton
Amy Bosek
Kraft Heinz
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.
Bay
Food Brokerage
Years with the company: 28
I am currently the very proud owner/president of Bay Food Brokerage.
I founded the company in 1993 with the belief that I could form a retail food brokerage that specialized in perishable departments and be the best in our marketplace. I was one of the only women in the perishable side of our industry when I began in 1986. I learned that if you give great service and treat your customers like you are a part of their team then you will not only survive but you will thrive.
I absolutely love the industry that I have given my entire professional life to. It is so rewarding to have a phenomenal team of employees and the best buyers and manufacturers to work with daily. I am blessed to have my son by my side in our company. When I retire, our company will continue to be a great success story with him leading the way. That will be my legacy.
This past 18 months has by far been the most challenging of my career. To feel the weight of a pandemic and know that what myself and my company do will help the consumer have food when needed is challenging but overwhelming at times.
The best advice that I can give is to treat everyone the way that you would want to be treated, and to look for the positive in each backwards step then learn from it. I work with many charities in Tampa Bay, along with our team, and giving back is a cornerstone of my life to show gratitude.
Tekla Cutlip PepsiCo
Years with the company: 12
I work on the DSD beverage business as a senior sales director, overseeing customers based in Tennessee and Kentucky. I currently manage a team of 15 sales professionals who call on more than 40 customers.
My first opportunity to manage a large team of people (more than 75) came in my late 20s. It has shaped my career path and led to my passion for coaching and developing. I've earned the opportunity to lead teams as large as 750 people in the years since then.
I enjoy building relationships with my customers. Despite all the technology that exists, strong communication and interpersonal skills still matter.
I challenge myself daily to ensure I'm focusing on what's best for my customers above all else. The company priority, at any organization, should be in partnership with what's best for the customer.
Communication is key. Other advice: Simply keeping up with communication goes a long way in locking in a solid reputation early on in your career. Also, put the extra time in early on and be the best at what you do.
Early on, I sought all types of mentors with varying levels of experience. This has been very impactful to my career, and I've never had anyone turn down a request to connect.
Board Member of Tennessee Grocery & Convenience Store Association, as well as Beverage Association of Tennessee.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Emory University.
Melissa Eads Kroger
Years with the company: 31
I am the corporate affairs manager for the Kroger Nashville Division.
What I find most rewarding about my job is how I am able to steward our investment in our communities. Whether it is through financial or in-kind support or connecting our people with volunteer opportunities, including board service, I am proud of what we do as a company to support those we serve.
An early female mentor of mine was a former supervisor, Jody Wylie. I learned a lot from her, including the importance of building a strong team and making sure they feel valued and appreciated.
My advice for a young professional would be to own the job you have today. Do not only what is expected but more. It is also important to let your supervisor and others know what your career goals are so they can better help you achieve them.
I currently serve on the board of the Tennessee Grocers Education Foundation and the Nashville Sports Council. I am also a member of the International Women's Forum-Tennessee Chapter and an alum of Leadership Nashville. I was honored to have been named the 2021 Women of the Year for Nashville’s Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and to be recognized as the 2018 Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Stores Association Retailer of the Year. I have a bachelor’s degree in public relations.
Katie Georges
The Fresh Market Years with the company: 13
I oversee the creation and execution of our monthly magazine, managing branding, messaging and production of guest-facing content.
Being given the opportunity to lead and create in an area of business I had not led before has been a defining moment. It’s an exercise of trust and growth and has helped me appreciate the power of collaboration. The exhilaration of seeing what started as an idea translate into reality has been rewarding.
Most rewarding is witnessing the direct impact my work has on consumers. We consistently hear our guests responding positively to our magazine. We’ve learned they enjoy reading it as much as other well-known food publications, and they look to every edition for inspiration. This role allows me to exercise the experience I've gained as a merchandiser and marketer and is tremendously rewarding.
Working with print deadlines in the rapidly changing food retail environment is challenging. This requires extreme flexibility and the ability to pivot last minute while maintaining high standards. We’ve set the bar high and are constantly pushing to improve – I love that kind of challenge.
Advice: Don’t get too comfortable in any role. If you reach that point, you are no longer being challenged or learning. Analyze every sticky situation as if it was your error and ask how you could have improved or avoided it. This mindset keeps you learning and solutions focused. I have a bachelor’s degree from UNC Wilmington.
Beth Governale Republic National Distributing Company
Years with the company: 15
I am responsible for the management of sales programming in coordination with the retailer, supplier and wholesaler. Developing strategies for continued growth while maintaining retailer relations and solving issues related to our customer.
A defining moment in my career occurred when I chose to follow my passion for retail chain within the adult beverage industry. I found a passion for retail chain early on and committed myself to being a valuable partner in business to our retail chain customers.
Relationships that I have built with my customers and industry peers are without a doubt the most rewarding aspect. I have the added benefit of calling many of these individuals friends.
Navigating the competitive landscape with retailers and wholesalers can be challenging. The ability to stay on trend while maximizing profits and driving sales is key to overcoming challenges while keeping the customer’s business top of mind.
Stay true to yourself and your abilities. Do your best to surround yourself with talented people that inspire you and challenge you to think in new ways.
Stacy Gabel’s support and guidance has been invaluable to me personally and professionally. Her passion for the industry along with her desire to place customer first, continues to have a lasting impression on me.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Georgia Southern University.
Lucy Greer
Autry Greer & Sons
Years with the company: 11
I am VP of deli/bakery operations, secretary and corporate spokeswoman.
A defining moment for me was designing and building a new concept specialty store for the company, Greer's St. Louis Market, which opened in June.
Being the visible fifth-generation family member connection between customers, our 105-year history and current stores and teams is an honor. The most rewarding part of my job is meeting customers and hearing how Greer's has been a positive part of their life.
Trying to have fun and not take it all too seriously can be challenging.
Prioritizing God, family and Greer's is the advice we share with all our team members. Implement that, you will be a success in every aspect of your life.
When I started checking groceries at age 9, my mentors were two head cashiers who took me under their wings and helped me fall in love with the grocery business. I will be forever grateful to Mrs. Clarice Coker and Mrs. Terry Johnson for their patience and love while I killed their cashier productivity. Additional mentors include Richard Piontkowski, former controller, and James Drinkard, former produce and deli supervisor, along with my godmother, Jan Endfinger, VP of HR and marketing.
I am on the Alabama Grocers Association’s board of directors. I have a bachelor's degree from Auburn University and a culinary arts diploma from Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College.
Tiffany Jackson Milo's Tea Company
Years with the company: Five
I am the logistics manager for Milo's Tea Company. In a nutshell, I manage the orders and the transportation for both of our distribution sites.
A defining moment for me was early in my career being promoted into a management position. As a young leader, it really gave me the confidence in my abilities and helped set me on my path.
What is most rewarding about my current position is the team I get to work alongside every day. I love helping play a small part in creating Milo's Moments for our fans. Also, as a leader, I love being able to help others grow.
The most challenging part of my job is the quick pace of our business and the unpredictability. There are so many aspects that I manage that are outside of my control. Fortunately, I thrive in a little bit of chaos.
My advice for up-and-coming professionals would be to treat others how you want to be treated. Be kind, work with integrity and stay true to your values. We all have different gifts and there is room at the table for everyone.
Bachelor’s degree in business logistics from Auburn University.
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. 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.
Fast forward, and I can say the last year has truly been game changing, and the future is bright. My advice for other professionals: “Don’t let perfect get in the way of good enough,” highly applicable words for those contemplating their next career step. Striving for perfection can cause burnout, insecurity and missed opportunities. Women especially often feel the need to check the box on all requirements, when in fact, seven out of 10 is good enough. I have two bachelor’s degrees from Queens University of Charlotte.
Lindsay Koch
Koch & Associates
Years with the company: 21
Lindsay Koch is the CEO of Koch & Associates Food Brokerage. She leads a team that negotiates between vendors and retailers to optimize programs and increase share for all involved. Her volunteer positions include the Georgia Food Industry Education Foundation. She has a bachelor’s degree and an MBA.
Most folks can’t time stamp a defining career moment, but most weren’t at the helm of a food brokerage when COVID hit. That year was a time for teamwork, accuracy, speed and creativity to find fast solutions. The Koch team worked safely in stores processing orders, reporting inventory, getting POs cut and shipped, etc. I did not have a single person say something was below their paygrade – only helpers.
Communication between all parts of the industry is our largest challenge. Take getting corn to your house. You have the farmer, warehouse, packer, carrier, broker, wholesaler, etc. Clear communication ensures that corn ends up in homes. This industry relies on sweat, communication and magic and my job is to help meld all three.
My father and mentor, Tom Koch, had me growing up in this industry. Chuck Roskovich at Publix shared a mission of taking care of people. Janet Young Barlow and Mike Faulk at Kroger taught the importance of promotions. Nick Tedesco at Vigo Importing stressed the power of retail people and common sense. Jeff Denzel with Sugar Foods helped with forecasting.
Lindsey Kueffner
Carolinas Food Industry Council
Years with the company: 14
I am executive director of the Carolinas Food Industry Council.
I always find it rewarding when I can help grocers continue to serve their communities, whether that's helping them overcome a regulatory hurdle or respond to or recover from a natural disaster.
Even in a pre-COVID-19 world, no two days were the same. However, there was always a precedent or a process to fall back on. Now the playbook is gone. That has been challenging.
Advice: Take on new opportunities, challenges, or projects – big or small – that come your way. You're bound to learn something and that is never a bad thing.
I currently serve on the board of directors of the Food Industry Association Executives and just finished my term as PTA vice president at my sons' elementary school.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University.
Kathy Kuzava Georgia Food Industry Association
I am president of the Georgia Food Industry Association.
A defining moment of my career was when the board of directors hired a very young and inexperienced person to run the association many years ago. They took a chance on me, and I have been so blessed by the opportunity.
At the capitol, a defining moment came when we celebrated the passage of a bill that allowed retailers to sell beer and wine on Sunday. It took more than five years of effort and was very satisfying for grocers and our customers.
Using my relationships with legislators or regulatory agencies to cut through red tape and solve problems for retailers is most rewarding. A perfect example would be assisting a retailer with a licensing problem or spending time in GEMA’s bunker during a hurricane.
The most challenging is also the most rewarding – cutting through bureaucracy to solve problems for GFIA members
My advice for up-and-coming professionals is to be known as someone with high integrity, who is passionate and committed to excellence
I had many mentors, but the most influential were the other food industry association executives who took me under their wings in my early career.
I currently serve as vice chair of the Food Industry Association Executives, vice chair of the Georgia Professional Lobbyist Association and board member for the National Grocers Association.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Georgia State University.
Megan Lacroix
C&S Wholesale Grocers
Years with the company: Eight
My current position is senior manager of procurement with C&S Wholesale Grocers. I oversee our West Coast and Southwest buying teams. I have a bachelor's in business management from Governor's State University.
I started my career with C&S as a buyer and have been in various positions in procurement.
I have had many mentors over the years, but overall I have had the pleasure of working for a lot of great people that have shaped the leader I have become. Amanda Stromgren inspires me to be the best human I can be. Joe Conley reminds me to always push myself out of my comfort zone. Ashok Bahl taught me to challenge the status quo, while Andrew Connell showed me how to think outside of the box.
The single most rewarding thing about my position is the growth and development of the people that I work with. At the end of the day, that is why I do what I do and what motivates me each day.
The most challenging part of my job today is adapting quickly to the ever-changing supply chain climate as we work through the impacts of COVID-19. Life and business still need to move forward even when it feels impossible in the moment.
Ellen McGeeney Ale-8-One Bottling Company
Years with the company: Eight
My title is president and COO of Ale-8-One Bottling Co. We are a small group with big responsibilities, so multi-tasking is key. We each wear whatever hat we need to at any given time.
There are days I’m heavily involved in growth strategy from pricing to distribution to R&D, and others that are more focused on CapEx planning, HR or supply chain scrambling. I pivot with my team as needed.
As for defining moment of my career, the standout has to be my work at a start-up company earlier in my career, which we eventually took public. That kind of success comes with a certain level of validation and confidence in yourself. As rewarding as that experience was for me, my biggest gift came from the fact that I could afford to take the next six years off and stay home with my kids.
I think being immersed in their lives for that period really taught me to listen, be patient and be more creative. I am a far better manager of people as a result of being able to spend that time with my kids.
Ale-8-One is one of the coolest brands out there. We have this amazing 95-year heritage that has an unparalleled cult following from a new generation of fans. That’s pretty exciting stuff to come to work to every day.
Cherri Means
S&C Foods
Years with the company: 32
Cherri Means was born in Memphis Tennessee. Her father, Cliff Marshall Sr., worked in the Memphis division of Malone and Hyde.
She moved to Nashville in 1972 when her father transferred to Malone and Hyde’s Nashville division. He later bought his first grocery store and formed Marshall Foods in 1979. Cherri started working for her family’s business at that time. She graduated from Middle Tennessee State with a bachelor’s degree in communications, focused on advertising and public relations.
In 1989, she formed S&C Foods and purchased her first grocery store in Portland, Tennessee. The store, originally Piggly Wiggly, is still part of S & C Foods and is known today as Portland Cash Saver. Over the years, S&C Foods has owned and operated as many as 15 grocery stores in the middle Tennessee area. Today the company has five stores and more than 200 employees.
Cherri is acknowledged for her skills in negotiation, strategic planning and onthe-ground store management. She loves working in her stores.
She is a member of the Tennessee Grocers and Convenience Store Association, where she currently serves on its executive board as vice chairman. She previously served on AWG's Retail Advisory Board.
She recently won the 2021 TGCSA Retailer of the Year award, voted on by her peers in the industry. She is married to Larry Webber and has two children, Steven and Shane Means.
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.
Alison Pierce
Milo's Tea Company
Years with the company: 10
I hold the position of brand director.
My career defining moment was being asked to switch from marketing to managing Milo’s replenishment. I was able to increase our in-stock percentage by 65 points. This experience gave me visibility into aspects of the business I would not otherwise have experienced and altered the trajectory of my career.
Working with Milo’s and building the brand from regional to national has been the most rewarding. In 10-plus years of being a part of this team, the market share increases show amazing brand loyalty.
It is challenging managing a wide variety of teams. I strive to be a team leader that listens, has fun and inspires collaboration among co-workers and marketing partners.
My advice for young professionals is to know who you are and the special qualities you offer. Take time to learn the same about those around you. This insight will help to inspire others with your own secret sauce and be contagious.
My mentor was my first boss, Jack Crawford. Jack genuinely loved people and taught me the importance of valuing others. His passion for relationships made him successful but his humility made him a role model.
My professional and volunteer affiliations include: Progressive Grocer’s Rising Star honoree; Momentum Student (current); Who’s Who in America; and Chief Marketing Officer Institute graduate.
Jill Robertson Post Consumer Brands
Years with the company: 7.5
Jill earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in criminal justice from the University of North Florida. Upon graduating, she began her career in the food industry with Winn-Dixie.
Jill spent more than 10 years with Winn-Dixie in different merchandising roles, followed by a year at KeHE Distributors before accepting a position at Post Consumer Brands, where she’s spent the last 7.5 years. She is currently the team leader for the C&S Wholesale team, within sales.
Her passion is developing her team because she feels it’s the most rewarding aspect of her leadership role. This passion for people development began after partnering with a mentor herself early in her career.
Jill was fortunate to meet and work for Cheikh Mboup while developing local merchandising at Winn-Dixie. Cheikh’s passion for people was unmatched. Through her mentor relationship and her own development, Jill learned characteristics of people management that she strives to apply in her role because of how impactful it was for her.
In addition to her passion for people, Jill has continued to learn through her current mentor, Daria Kolb, senior director supply chain planning at Post Consumer Brands, the value of challenging yourself and leading upward.
If Jill was to share her advice to up-and-coming professionals in the industry she would say, “Be a sponge and don't be afraid to ask questions."
Lynn Rushing
Southeastern Grocers – Winn-Dixie
Years with the company: 19
I'm the regional VP of store operations for Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and the Florida Panhandle Winn-Dixie stores. The most rewarding aspect of my job is bringing the business vision to life in local communities.
I’ve worked in grocery for more than 30 years and the defining moment of my career was joining the team at Winn-Dixie. I’m proud of my journey and the experiences that I have gained over those years.
I love that my current role focuses on the big picture of retail success, but it is also important to me that every decision I make keeps the needs of my associates in mind. Sometimes it’s challenging to find a good balance, but I work hard to find creative solutions that lead to all around success.
When I was growing up, my parents were my mentors. I learned firsthand the value of integrity and strong work ethic from them.
The best advice I can give young professionals: work hard to leave a positive mark on everything you do. Align yourself with like-minded people and driven leaders who hold the positions you aspire to have. Most importantly, as you learn more and gain opportunities to lead, always remember to share your time and talent with the community and the next generation.
I serve my community by partnering with industry groups and organizations such as the Alabama Grocers Association, American Cancer Society and others.
Lori Spencer C&S Wholesale Grocers
Years with the company: Seven
My current position is senior manager merchandising. I have worked in retail operations, as well as procurement, buying and merchandising.
The most rewarding part of my job is mentoring new people and watching them grow. Sharing my knowledge and learning from them as well.
The most challenging part of my job is the ever-changing environment that we face every day and juggling multiple priorities at the same time.
Advice for the up-and-coming professionals: be an early adapter by embracing change and take risks, take the jobs that challenge you.
Early mentors in my career were Rob Vassar and Sheila Marshall from my time in retail operations.
I have a bachelor’s degree.
Ellie Taylor
Alabama Grocers Association
Years with the company: 26
I have served as president since 2007. In addition, I serve as president of the Alabama Grocers Education Foundation and oversee the foundation’s education, research, and college scholarship programs. I am also the executive director of the Alabama Food Manufacturers and Producers Association, which promotes products made, manufactured, produced and headquartered in the state through the Buy Alabama’s Best Program.
The defining moment of my career was being named president of the Alabama Grocers Association. The thing I find the most rewarding is being able to help members run their companies more efficiently and serve communities and customers.
In a normal year, the most challenging part of my job is passing legislation. It is a lengthy process where all interested parties must be brought into the fold, including business and governmental entities. The last 18 months have posed a unique challenge with the COVID-19 pandemic. AGA worked with state and local officials and federal agencies and associations to keep members up to date.
Even with the challenges, I have never been prouder to represent the grocery industry. There was no blueprint for this pandemic. We should all be proud of our industry and the work we have done. My advice would be to believe in yourself and what you do. My greatest mentor was my father. I have always felt like I could be in any position or overcome any circumstance because of his encouragement and training.
Professional and volunteer affiliations: Alabama Agriculture Partnership Council; Alabama Emergency Small Business Task Force; Alabama Food Systems Collaborative; Alabama Obesity Task Force; Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission; Community Food Bank of Central Alabama; and Youth Access to Tobacco Advisory Board. I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and am a Graduate of the Yale School of Management Executive Leadership.
LeeAnn Taylor Adergy
Years with the company: 14
I am president of Adergy, a privately held company and a leading provider of customized audio advertising and streaming music.
As a young associate, I had a mentor who recognized my ability to listen, evaluate and implement. This moment of self-awareness prepared me to Lead from Behind, a Mandel philosophy, and be acutely aware of the global implications of decisions.
Every day there is something new to learn. I also really love having the ability to implement so many of the creative initiatives of my talented team members. Also, I enjoy building relationships with our clients and other dynamic vendor partners.
Staying abreast of the fluidity of times while understanding our rapidly changing retail environment. It’s important that my team and I are in position to react quickly in providing retailers’ relevant, real-time messaging content. To help retailers communicate evolving COVID-19 information to shoppers, we created an audio resource of PSAs to help them get the information out quickly to shoppers.
Develop a personal brand that articulates who you are, what you can do and how you can help others. Most importantly be authentic and stay true to your core values personally and professionally.
My early mentors were my grandfather and parents. They instilled in me a strong work ethic and desire to serve.
My affiliations include: NGA; WGA; ROFDA; OLOA; and Gulf Breeze Chamber. I have a paralegal degree.
Kristin Thayer
Johnsonville Sausage
Years with the company: 14
I am director of operations and supply chain. My defining moment came when I started to coach members and realized the impact I could have on a member's life and the moral obligation to help them develop their talents. I just knew that is what I wanted to spend my life doing.
It's wonderful to see a member take ownership and pride in their work. It's even better when I see members help their teammates be successful.
There will always be elements affecting our success that are out of our control. Remembering that we can only control the controllable. Improvise, adapt and overcome is my motto. When I come up against an issue I can't change or control, I have to remember to take a step back and work with my team to find a new way.
Don't be afraid to bring your whole self to work. Being a woman in a maledominated industry, is not without its challenges. It took me a while to figure out my groove. The thing that worked was just being myself, leaning into vulnerability and having honest conversations.
I had a coach early in my career at Johnsonville that I am still in touch with today. He had high expectations but was supportive and fair. He gave me opportunities when I wasn't sure if I was ready. When I had success, I gained confidence. And when I wasn't so successful, he coached me through it, ensuring I got a return on my mistake.
Bethany Timmes
C&S Wholesale Grocers
Years with the company: 12
I am the customer experience manager.
A year into the COVID-19 pandemic, we had to move my customer from one warehouse to another. A warehouse move on its own is challenging, The timing of this move ratcheted up the stakes. It was the most difficult project I've been involved in. I learned that advocating for the customer is essential as it benefits both the customer and the company.
The most rewarding part of my job is the people I work with, from my co-workers to my customers. I hired a new account executive two weeks before the pandemic lockdown and she has excelled. Watching her learn and grow into the role during such trying times has been inspiring. Working with my independent grocers to help them feed their communities has been fulfilling.
The most challenging part of my job, especially of late, is balancing work and life. During the early months of the pandemic I – like so many in the grocery industry – was working long days seven days a week trying to get my customers and their communities as much product as possible.
Advice: Be brave. You are capable of far more than you realize. Don't be afraid to ask questions, others are probably questioning the same things. The people we look up to were once new to the industry too.
I have bachelor’s and master’s degrees from George Mason University.