A celebration o� in�uential �omen in the �ood industr�
Twenty-nine from across Southwest 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 – 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 Southwest.
Taylor Avery
Blue Bell Creameries
Years with the company: 6.5
I oversee sales and distribution for Southern Arizona and I am also a key account manager for the Southwest Division of Albertsons/Safeway.
A pivotal moment in my career was my promotion to branch manager. At the time, I was the first woman in our company’s history to receive that title, and I take a huge amount of pride in being offered that position.
The most rewarding part of my job is working with our local team of 18 to build our brand in Southern Arizona. I feel lucky to work alongside some of the best, and most hard-working people in the industry, and I enjoy celebrating our successes together.
The most challenging part of my job is staying ahead of staffing demands for our branch, specifically commercial driving positions.
My advice for up-and-coming coming professionals is to take time to connect with your team and put people before problems. Stay humble and remember that a success story wouldn’t be much of a story without a few hiccups and failures along the way.
I feel extremely fortunate to have a supportive group of mentors near and far within our company. My fellow Arizona branch managers, along with our regional manager, have been nothing short of generous with their time and advice over the years.
I currently serve on the advisory board for Sunshine Acres Children’s home in Mesa, Arizona.
I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona.
Dawnna Bowen
Tyson Foods
Years with the company: 23
I am the director of innovation strategy and planning for foodservice. I lead a team that develops the innovative products that we market to the foodservice industry in our Tyson brands.
When I went from a more technical R&D role to a marketing position almost 20 years ago, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into an area of business that I had never imagined myself. I loved it.
Innovation is such a fun and challenging area to work. It gives me and my team an opportunity to be creative every single day and to work with some amazing partners to develop great food.
The most challenging part of my job can be how to prioritize all of the opportunities. My team innovates for more than 47 product categories and for all segments of foodservice. It's a fun challenge because every day is different.
My advice is when you become a manager, make sure that your people know that you care and support their development into leaders. When people know you care, they will do great work.
I was blessed to have many mentors in my early career. My professor in college, Ron Buescher, really developed my passion for food science. One of my early leaders at Tyson, Duane Rhodes, supported my growth and challenged me to try new roles.
My affiliations include the Network of Executive Women and Tyson's Women’s Business Resource Group. I have bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Arkansas.
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.
Angel Brown
Brookshire Grocery Co.
Years with the company: 22
In her 22-plus years with the company, Angel Brown, director of pharmacy operations, says the defining moment in her career was the transition from managing a single pharmacy to supervising 25 locations.
After being promoted to zone manager, Angel had to earn the respect of her peers and learn how best to lead them.
People are the most rewarding part of her job, as well as the most challenging. Leading 1,000-plus employees requires adaptability to meet their varying communication styles and motivational differences. Still, Angel believes the rewards of leading people far outweigh the challenges. She enjoys working with her people, both from an operations standpoint and from a service perspective.
One of Angel's greatest rewards is seeing people she leads grow and develop in their careers, and knowing she had a part in it through her encouragement, training and guidance.
Her advice to up-and-coming professionals is to make a priority of building positive relationships with the people they work with.
She believes that people are the most valuable asset of any organization. Investing time and energy in people results in great workplaces which in turn produce the best outcomes for organizations.
Angel credits Linda Weber, a pharmacy manager, and Traci George, an area supervisor, for their influence early in her career that led her to where she is today.
Deborah Brown
HAC Inc.
Years with the company: 26
I am the chief financial officer of HAC Inc. In December 2011, our company became an ESOP. As an employee owner, we share in the outcome of our company success. It has been an amazing learning experience and lasting cultural change in our business. This is a people business and the relationships we build last a lifetime.
The most rewarding part is the daily interaction my team has with all aspects of the business. We are basically the storytellers of our company, which includes every facet of the food chain.
The food industry seems to be evolving daily. We continue to look for ways to sell more products and with different formats, cost pressures, e-commerce and non-stop competition we need to adapt quickly to an ever-changing market.
My advice to young professionals is to lead by example, work hard and have a great work ethic. It is important for leaders in the finance to surround themselves with educated and knowledgeable professionals with sound credentials. And, it never hurts to have fun and work. People seem to learn more while they are smiling.
Early in my career at Homeland, our CFO Wayne Peterson taught me everything I know today about how to be a better CFO. As a mentor, he taught me the importance of honesty and integrity in my role. He showed me how to develop my team and be a better decision maker.
Julie Butner
Tarrant Area Food Bank
Years with the company: Two
Julie Butner has served as president and CEO of Tarrant Area Food Bank for two years. New to food banking, Julie did not expect a pandemic to strike when she took the position. Faced with the greatest crisis to challenge TAFB, Julie used her extensive military and private sector experience to scale up TAFB’s distribution to meet soaring hunger.
Faced with empty grocery shelves, frozen supply chains, closed food pantries and the overnight disappearance of volunteers, Julie reorganized TAFB's structure and led staff to increase distribution from 600,000 meals per week to a million, all while also having to innovate new distribution methods for a time of social distancing.
When the greater Fort Worth community needed its food bank, Julie ensured staff and scores of community partners – especially the grocery industry – united for hungry families.
Prior to joining the TAFB, Julie worked in executive roles at TPC, a healthcare coalition, Aramark, Compass Group and LSG Sky Chefs.
Julie served as a captain in the U.S. Army in Nuremberg, Germany, during Operation Desert Storm. She has a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and a master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma.
Noma Burr Affiliated Foods Inc.
Years with the company: 20
My accounting career began in 1993 in public accounting. I started with AFI in 1996. I then worked with my husband from 2007-11. I returned to AFI in 2011 and have been CFO since 2016.
The defining moment in my career occurred when I became part of our succession plan with a promotion to controller. Knowing the president and board had faith and confidence in me made me work even harder.
The best parts of this job are watching team members shine and take ownership of their positions, working with every aspect of my company and continuing to learn each day.
Making sure there is focus on the complete picture is the biggest challenge. Analyzing impact of specific actions on the whole of any company can be difficult, especially so with the complexities of food manufacturing and distribution.
My first accounting job, the only female partner in that public accounting firm mentored me in good accounting practices and professionalism. I watched her lead with grace in a predominately male industry. She could be stern, but would always take time to teach with patience and softness. She encouraged me to keep moving up by always saying “yes” to additional responsibility when offered. That is the advice I would give to any up-and-coming professional.
I have two bachelor’s degrees from West Texas A&M University.
Jessica Carreño Kroger
Years with the company: Nine
I am the pharmacy manager at Kroger Pharmacy No. 528 in Dallas, Texas.
The most defining moment of my career was when I became part of the Kroger family. Being part of Kroger has opened many doors, such as training pharmacists, conducting flu clinics, participating in interviews, being part of initiatives and administering COVID-19 testing and vaccines, to name a few.
The most rewarding part of my position is helping the Spanish-speaking community. I can convey valuable information to patients about their health in their native tongue. Knowing that they understand is very gratifying. I am thankful to be able to help them in so many ways that others cannot. I believe the most challenging part of our job is having competing priorities.
The advice I have for other pharmacists is that when you are presented with an opportunity, take it. In pharmacy our options are limitless and we can truly make a difference.
I would not be where I am today if I did not have my mentors April Henry, Jill Lester and Debbie Veselka.
I have been involved in Vestido Rojo (Red Dress) with American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association and recently became part of Kroger’s Health initiative “Take One for Your Team."
I have a doctorate of pharmacy from the University of Houston.
Nikki Carver Super C Mart Inc.
Years with the company: 14
As president and CEO of Super C Mart Inc., I am the third generation to lead my family-owned retail business. I have a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University. My mentor was my father, Rod Carver. He always had the right big idea and direction and path. I reflect daily upon and miss his infinite leadership role in my life.
A pivotal point in my career and for the future of my business was realizing and strategically promoting growth from my father’s and grandfather’s visions for Super C. Specifically, our new flagship store currently being built at Lake Texoma in Kingston, Oklahoma.
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the high level of dedication and hard work put forth by my loyal employees to provide the best overall experience to our rural shoppers. Also, helping to support and foster growth in the eight Oklahoma rural communities in which we are located. The most challenging parts are providing effective tools and support for our management and maintaining the best quality experience and food for our customers.
My advice for up-and-coming professionals would be to listen and be compassionate to your employees. Ultimately understanding the customers’ ever-changing needs and executing a plan to fulfill them.
Involved in my community, I serve as a NYSA soccer coach and board member at Associated Wholesale Grocers and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cleveland County.
Mary Lou Chapman Rocky Mountain Food Industry Association
Years with the company: 29
I am president/CEO. The RMFIA serves as the voice for independently-owned retail grocers throughout Colorado and Wyoming, working with state, local and federal legislators and regulatory agencies. I am the face and spokesperson of the association.
A defining moment came while working for a government agency. It became clear that I could be of more help to the businesses with whom I worked by being on the outside but knowing what I had learned on the inside of government.
I love working with independent grocers who are the heart of their communities. The most challenging part of my job is keeping up with all the legislation, state and federal regulations and trying to manage with a limited budget. COVID-19 has made this even more challenging. I regret that I have little time to visit our members at their home base.
My advice is don't be afraid to try something new, watch and listen carefully and prepare well. Proper grammar is essential in writing and speaking. Being respectful of others is key.
I had several mentors at an early age. My parents were hard-working people who taught us that you can be anything you want if you prepare and work hard. Others throughout my career set great examples and helped me to make choices. I have a bachelor’s degree.
Barbara Charlet Made In Oklahoma Coalition
Years with the company: 21
Retired from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, I am a retail advocate. The conception and subsequent formation of the MIO Coalition in 2000 was a defining moment in my career. And it’s been a transformative journey.
It was my privilege – and it still is – to be associated with the coalition and have played a role in its formation. Over the past two decades, the retail food industry and food marketing has experienced unprecedented and dramatic changes. But what has not changed is the coalition’s mission statement – create awareness and consumer loyalty for food brands made in Oklahoma.
Today, I continue to lend a hand to the MIO Coalition as a retail advocate. Along with MIO company representatives, we work to build relationships with local and regional retailers.
The enjoyment and satisfaction I derive from being associated with the coalition is three-fold. First, it has been fun to experience the bond and sense of commitment members continue to demonstrate after two decades together. Second, it’s a kick to overhear members talking about the value they receive from their membership. Finally, the coalition is experiencing an influx of new members, companies spearheaded by Millennials. Its survival for another 20 years is in their hands.
Michelle Davalos
C&S Wholesale, Grocer's Supply Division
Years with the company: 21
I started my career 26 years ago as the receptionist for a foodservice distributor while attending the University of Houston. Over the years, my career has led me to multiple positions within a total of four foodservice companies in the Houston area.
I've worked my way up in various departments such as retail sales, marketing, international business, merchandising and category management. I am currently the merchandising manager at C&S Wholesale for Grocers Supply. This position has been the most rewarding.
Every day is a new set of challenges, but it has become an opportunity for me to create a great team, listen to my colleagues and challenge myself to be a better manager and employee.
My advice to up-and-coming professionals is to always challenge yourself to be better – no matter where you are in your career – and welcome feedback. Also, be open to other ideas. Collaboration and communication are key in this industry. The better we are at doing this, the better the customer experience.
I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston; certificates in global business and business analytics from Harvard Business School; a Project Management Certificate from Rice University; Product Management from Cornell University; and Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green Belt certification.
Suan Grant
Suan’s Inc.
Years with the company: 12
I am CEO/owner of Suan’s Inc. A defining moment of my career was attending a basic food entrepreneurial seminar in February 2009 at Oklahoma State University’s Food & Agricultural Products Center.
Most rewarding is constantly learning and meeting customers along with others in the industry, while growing to meet the needs of the customer is most challenging.
My advice for young professionals is what my mother always told me: “‘I can’t,’ never accomplished anything.”
Mentors have included the team at Oklahoma State University’s Food & Agricultural Products Center led by Roy Escoubas, Barbara Charlet of the MIO Coalition, and my daughter, Robin Wolf, and granddaughter, Lexie Garrison.
Affiliations include: member of the MIO Coalition since 2010, serving on its board from June 2016-21 and as founding chair of the Emerging Companies Committee; support of the Oklahoma Regional Food Bank; and mentoring growing companies; accredited medical records technician; consultant for Project HOPE, Cornwall Regional Hospital in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Living in Jamaica offered many lessons. One unexpected advantage would be how to handle and cook with the fiery Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper, which has become the signature ingredient in my line of condiments.
April Henry Kroger
Years with the company: 24
I am health and wellness pharmacy practice coordinator. As for a defining career moment, I trusted one of my mentors earlier in my career who had more belief in me and in my abilities to lead than I did and applied for the next level position.
The most rewarding aspect of being a pharmacist with my position is having the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of not only our patients and customers, but also in the lives of our associates. I truly enjoy connecting with others on a personal level and being a colleague and mentor to some of the most talented professionals in the industry.
Juggling multiple priorities in an ever-changing industry while doing my best to balance the needs of our associates, customers and colleagues is challenging.
Advice: Never lose focus of why you became a pharmacist. Continue to strive every day to be better and to be a positive influence in the lives of the people around you and of those that you serve.
Patti Berberich and Jim White were mentors early in my career. I have a bachelor’s degree.
Charise Gutierrez King Soopers
Years with the company: 17
I am store manager. I truly believe that the most defining moment in my career was my admission to the USC FIM Program. I learned so much about myself, and the industry during that program. I was able to come back not only a stronger leader but a stronger individual.
The most rewarding part of what I do every day continues to be my associates. Despite all the challenges we have faced over this past year, they continue to work hard and inspire me to do the same.
This past year has really opened my eyes to the true meaning of challenge. I don't think anyone in this industry was prepared for the uncertainty that COVID-19 continues to bring to our business. The most challenging part still is not being able to provide stability to our store teams.
My advice for up-and-coming professionals is don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. It is through that vulnerability that we are able to connect with others and grow as leaders.
I have a bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver.
Elizabeth Hoffer CEFCO
Years with the company: One
With 25-plus years of food service experience, Hoffer joined CEFCO Convenience Stores as the director of commissary operations in 2020 to design and implement the multi-million-dollar commissary and warehouse facility for the chain.
Hoffer makes decisions from both a people and profitability standpoint. The most rewarding parts of her job are helping people meet their potential, while seeing operational plans come to fruition.
Within the company, Hoffer is a natural leader who serves as mentor within the organization. She consistently challenges thinking and helps people grow both personally and professionally.
For newcomers to the industry, she suggests: “Make a plan, stick to it and go after it with everything you got. You don’t have to be the sharpest tool in the shed, but you do need to be the last one standing.” Perseverance is paramount.
She also recommends that you have a mentor. Her mentor taught her, “You can do a man’s job and still be a lady. Embrace what makes you unique.”
Hoffer has a passion for people with special needs. In 2018, she won the Employee of the Year Award with Goodwill Industries for Job Placement for People with Barriers. She participates in the Weigel's Family Christmas, which is a foundation that provides for underprivileged children at the holidays.
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. 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.
Fast forward to today, 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.
Rosemary Jones
Brookshire Grocery Co.
Years with the company: Five
Rosemary is EVP–chief people officer/legal. She joined Brookshire Grocery Company in 2016 after making the decision to leave her successful private law practice and enter the grocery industry.
Rosemary has found her work on BGC's executive team rewarding as they guide the 93-year-old company on an exciting path forward as a premier regional operator and great workplace for all.
Rosemary says her greatest challenge has been the COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding responsibility of keeping employees and customers safe, wellinformed and in compliance with dozens of additional safe practices for their health and well-being.
When advising up-and-coming professionals, Rosemary encourages them to work hard, respect others and stay true to their values. Success comes at the right time for those who make it a priority to develop others rather than focus on their personal career growth.
Rosemary's sister, Robin Sage, is her greatest role model, having graduated from law school, practiced law and been elected a district judge at an early age. Rosemary believes that women can achieve anything if they commit to doing the hard work it takes to achieve great things.
Her credentials include membership with the Texas Bar Association, the Society of Human Resource Management-CP and various other legal, professional and civic groups.
Merrilee Kick
BuzzBallz/Southern Champion
Years with the company: 12
I'm CEO/founder of BuzzBallz/Southern Champion, an alcoholic beverage manufacturer in Carrollton, Texas. The company makes ready-to-drink cocktails like BuzzBallz, Uptown Cocktails and BIGGIES, as well as vodka, rum, gin and bourbon. The beverages are sold in liquor, convenience and grocery stores, as well as casinos, restaurants, bars, golf courses and arenas in 50 states and 21 countries.
There have been many defining moments in my career – such as being recognized as the only woman owned distillery/winery/brewery combination in the U.S. – plus, some amazing accolades/awards throughout the years.
I love getting to work with my family. I love our fun culture. We are vertically integrated and manufacture our packaging as well as our product. R&D – making flavors and inventing new packaging – is fun.
There are many regulations in our industry. Taxation is difficult, along with the compliance, but we learned how to do it.
Advice for newcomers: Build relationships. Work and don't expect handouts. I didn't know anyone in the industry when I started, but things have changed.
Affiliations include: Women of the Vine & Spirits; DISCUS; WSWA; NABCA; WPO; C200; IWF; and Enterprising Women.
I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Montana and a master’s degree from Texas Woman's University and OPM55 Executive Education at Harvard Business School.
Kathleen Krantz Lazy Acres Natural Market
Years with the company: 16
Having the opportunity to attend the USC Food Industry Management program definitely was a defining moment in my career. I anticipated I would learn a lot in the program, but what I didn’t expect was the opportunity to reflect on who I am as a leader and the impact I want to have on the people around me – at school, home and work.
The parts of my job that I love are also the parts that make it the most challenging. I love the fast-paced environment, creating new food dishes with my prepared foods teams and developing team members. It’s so easy to want to say “yes” to everything, so what is challenging is deciding what I can say “no” to. Carving out time for myself to rest and reset gives me the balance necessary to be an effective leader.
Early in my career, I was able to work with my now CEO, Adam Caldecott. He was integral in shaping the career path I'm on today. He taught me to follow my passion so I can drive innovation, mentor others and make meaningful contributions to the business.
For up-and-coming professionals: Be intentional about seeking out and connecting with a variety of people. The more that you engage and give of yourself to others, the more empathetic you become. Gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges that others have and listening to perspectives different from your own will empower you in so many facets of your life-both personally and professionally.
Christy Lara Albertsons Companies
Years with the company: 27
I am the director of public relations for Albertsons Companies Southern Division, including Albertsons, Tom Thumb and Randalls in Texas and Louisiana. My current role includes media, government and community relations, as well as internal communications.
In January, I will celebrate 28 years in the grocery industry...it all started with a high school job as a cashier at my local Randalls store in Houston.
There were several mentors early in my career who encouraged me to consider a long-term career in grocery. As a young adult pursuing a college degree, I was inspired by the incredible opportunity for career development. I realized I had landed much more than a part-time job when I walked into my first store to apply.
As many of us know, this is a "people business," which is one of the things I love most about my current role. I work with people from many backgrounds and perspectives, which is an amazing part of this journey. At the same time, we all have something in common – food. It is an integral part of our lives.
I am consistently impressed with the resilience of the food industry and those who work in it and am so proud to be a part of it. This is especially true of the last year and a half. We've always felt the local grocery store is essential, and now it has become even more apparent.
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.
Theresa Motter
Van's Kitchen
Years with the company: 35
I am chief egg roll officer. A defining moment in my career was when my parents turned Van's Kitchen over to me with full confidence that I would continue to grow the company.
As a woman and a minority, it's so rewarding to mentor young female entrepreneurs as they search for assistance on their own journey toward success.
One of the most challenging things is being patient during the hiring process to ensure that we hire people who buy into our values and culture.
Believe in the American dream and believe in yourself: As a little girl, I never dreamed of leading a company because I don’t remember seeing women leaders. I didn’t know that I would be able to live the dream of being able to run a business. There have been times this year when I’ve thought, “What are we going to do? What if things don’t work out?” But I believe we can make it through this.
I've always looked up to my parents, Van and Kim Nguyen. Their example of heart-centered leadership built a foundation that has helped our company thrive for more than three decades.
I am actively involved in the Women’s Business Council, Convene Texas and the DFW Minority Supplier Development Council. In addition to supporting the North Texas Food Bank, No Kid Hungry and the American Red Cross as a business.
I have bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of North Texas.
Gena Norris
CForce Bottling Company
Years with the company: Six
I am founder, owner and CEO at CForce Bottling Company. My career has been about vision, mission and establishing a legacy for our KickStart Kids Foundation.
The greatest and most gratifying rewards in my position are realized daily through the incredible team of people around me, seeing them succeed and grow in their positions. When you remain goal- and mission-driven for a cause that’s bigger than yourself, the rewards are endless.
As for challenges, making sure the culture of your company is healthy; anticipating where the market and category is headed; compliance and maintaining exceptional quality water; and meeting growth and profit targets.
Remember no matter your position, it’s about relationships and teamwork. We are all directors of first impressions. Communication is key.
Early in life, it was my mother, Marie, who was my mentor. She raised six children and still managed to work a full-time job. She instilled in me a strong work ethic that has carried me through life. For that, I’m forever grateful.
As a nationally certified woman-owned business, CForce Bottling Company is a member of the NWBOC and the Navasota Grimes County Chamber of Commerce. We support many local organizations and causes, including military, law enforcement and first responders. I’ve served as executive chairman and national board member of our KickStart Kids Foundation for the past 25 years.
Rita Reid
Reese Group Inc.
Years with the company: 21
I am VP of Reese Group Inc.-West Texas Division. Opening the division with 2,000 items all at one time was a defining moment in my career.
I love a challenge. Opening and building a new market for Reese and seeing all of the hard work come to fruition is very gratifying.
The most challenging part of my job in today's world is quite simple – holding on to current business while at the same time working to expand that business with new clients. The advice I can give up-and-coming professionals is what my dad told me when he talked me into this business: "Keep your nose clean, your eyes open and your mouth shut.” Sounds simple, but it has always been a statement that I have tried to live by. Be honest and do what you say you are going to do. If for some reason you cannot do what is promised, then be the person that makes the first phone call before issues can arise. Be up front.
As for mentors, my dad worked in the meat industry with ConAgra and got me started. And then, of course, Darrell Reese was the major influence for me on the grocery side of the business. He was like a brother to me.
I am president of the vendor advisory council for Affiliated Foods Amarillo and also vice chairman of the board and treasurer of my church.
Emily Shuping
Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry
Years with the company: Four
I am coordinator of the Made in Oklahoma Coalition.
Navigating the coalition through the COVID-19 pandemic has been an honor and a challenge. The pandemic shined a light on the local foods’ ecosystem and the importance of local supply chains while creating a tremendous opportunity to make connections with consumers.
I am responsible for creating and executing strategic marketing initiatives that have a direct impact on the success of Oklahoma companies. It is exciting to work with companies to achieve their unique goals and take them to the next level.
Each day brings new priorities and requires me to use different skills to navigate the situation at hand. I enjoy the challenge of developing programs and initiatives that move the needle for Oklahoma companies.
Advice for up-and-coming professionals: Take the time to find what you are passionate about and align your career goals with your values, skills and natural abilities. Build a network of people around you who care about you and want to see you succeed.
I have the tremendous opportunity to work under the leadership of the first female Secretary of Agriculture for the State of Oklahoma, Blayne Arthur. Her leadership and support have been instrumental to my ability to be successful.
I have bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Oklahoma State University and completed the Oklahoma Agricultural Leadership Program.
Cheryl Pick Sommer
Kaune's Neighborhood Market
Years with the company: 18
I am president of Kaune's Neighborhood Market. My path to the grocery industry went through business school at ASU and law school at DePaul University. My husband and I purchased Kaune's, a charming gourmet store, in 2003. At that time, I changed careers and undertook operation of the store.
I was fortunate to have many mentors along my path, including: my husband, the best partner and brightest human I know; family members; vendors who walked patiently through the grocery operation with me; friends gathered through my involvement with NGA; and longtime employees, who have shared their experience and knowledge with me.
The grocery industry offers a unique opportunity to help and serve others. The challenge is balancing the economics of the business against a desire to do more –for our team, customers and community.
Thoughts about being a professional and, in particular an entrepreneur: be involved in your community; always "show up," not just physically, but intellectually and emotionally, ready to do anything necessary; always make a perfect effort; and remember, you will make mistakes, that is why pencils have erasers.
Elisabeth "Liz" Urtado-Holzheauser STAR Brokerage Inc.
Years with the company: Eight
I am CEO. Although not all decisions carry the same weight, there has been many defining moments where the risks, the potential downsides and the rewards all were greater. However, knowing that other people and their families rely on me for a paycheck has been my career-defining moment and what drives me every day.
I love the freedom I have as CEO. I define the strategies for the business and choose the types of clients and projects we take on. As a result, I’ve been able to do business with some of the best companies in the industry.
Just staying on top of emails is tough. It goes against my core values to not instantly reply to everyone. But as CEO, I've had to shift my priorities and some of my values as the company has grown.
The key to success in any field is to keep moving forward. That kind of mentality doesn't mean that you'll never experience setbacks, which always delivers invaluable experience and lessons learned. Be a learn-it-all, not a know-it-all.
My mentors include: Laura Murillo, president of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, who helped shape my sales leadership style; and my dad, Sam Urtado, who has changed how I look at challenges from an analytical perspective.
I have a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree and Executive MBA from Rice University.
Courtney Talbot Mountain View Meats Company
Years with the company: 12
I am VP of operations. I proudly represent the third generation of Phelps working at the company, continuing the legacy of my grandparents, Cliff and Betty Phelps, who founded it in 1974.
It's a great honor to contribute to the legacy of my family. I take great pride in promoting and supporting other agriculture-based businesses such as Mountain View through the Made in Oklahoma Coalition. This year, I was appointed president of the coalition and became the first woman to serve in this position.
The most challenging part of my job has been learning to adapt to a continual changing market. One of the biggest thus far being the global COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it has had on the beef and pork markets, the supply chain and on employment as a whole. Finding a way to keep sausages made, shipped and available to consumers at a reasonable price has been my greatest achievement so far.
My best advice for someone looking towards a career in food industry would be to work hard and use your resources. Connect yourself with others in the industry and learn everything you can. Try to remember, success is a marathon, not a sprint.
