Women of Influence 2015

THE GRIFFIN REPORT PRESENTS

February 2015

2015

10 th

Edition

Women of Influence

IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY

FOODINDUSTRYWOMEN.COM An exclusive product of The Griffin Report and Shelby Publishing Co .

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 1

1/20/15 11:36 AM

Welcome

2

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

Karen Harty Executive Vice President The Griffin Report of Food Marketing/ Shelby Publishing Co.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

to The Griffin Report’s 10th Annual Showcase of

Women of Influence

We are proud to present the 10th Anniversary Edition of Women of Influence in the Food Industry.

Every year we receive more nominations than the year before, and the Women of Influence in the Food Industry has grown both in number of women honored and in geographic area of coverage. In fact, this year we are honoring 90 women — the largest number of honorees in one year.

They represent companies that are located coast to coast and include various backgrounds, experience and channels. The categories include brokers, distributors, retailers, franchises, manufacturers, organizations/associations, restaurants, universities and culinary institutes.

Meet these women trendsetters who have qualified for inclusion in this prestigious listing and whose leadership, skills and dedication have made and are making a difference in the food industry.

in the Food Industry

The honorees were chosen for their highly visible contributions to our industry, their professionalism and the awareness they have generated for the potential of other women in our business. These women play a significant role in their companies through their leadership, expertise and dedication and even beyond through their charity, philanthropy and civic work. I N This high-energy group includes a gardener, interior decorator, skier, golfer, painter, yoga/ Zumba/Pilates enthusiast, photographer, potter, scuba diver, wedding planner, hiker, motorcyclist, sailor, equestrian, basket weaver, writer, runner, pianist, tennis player, author and trapeze artist! These women also are passionate about their families, companies, customers and communities.

Shelby Publishing Co. will continue to recognize women who make a difference. As always, we welcome your feedback and comments, and if you know a female leader, innovator, trendsetter

or someone special that you feel might qualify for our Women of Influence in the Food Industry list, I would love to hear from you.

You can nominate an honoree by going to our website at foodindustrywomen.com and clicking on the Nominate link.

Please join me in applauding these 90 phenomenal women of influence. I hope you enjoy readT H E F and ing their stories reflections.

O thoughtful O D

I N D U S T R Y

—Karen Harty

10 th

10 th

Editio n

Editio n

foodindustrywomen.com I N

LAETITIA ALLEXANT Nestlé Waters

Years with company: Eight Current position: Director of Marketing

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BBA, Northeastern University Member of the Nestlé Waters Mentoring Team

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

The Nestlé Waters mentoring program helped me realize that mentorship comes in many forms. I’m thankful for all the mentors I’ve had, of-

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 2

ficially and unofficially, but specifically: My father, who showed me the value of respect and collaboration, hard work (on our family’s farm) and not taking things for granted (being on the factory line at 7 a.m. like everyone else despite being the CEO’s daughter).

Mike Pengue (currently president of Nestlé Waters Brands), my first official mentor. I thrive on open dialogue, which is what I valued the most from Mike, who not only guided me through my early career at the company and pushed me beyond my comfort zone, but also listened and opened himself to feedback.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I’m proud of my evolution within the CPG world, and how I’ve been able to adapt to and learn from a variety of situations.

I was born in France and came to the United States for college. My upbringing and the different cultures I met along the way have helped me look at things from different perspectives and be

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

10

how have they assisted you in your career?

open to new ways of doing or thinking.

Most challenging part of your job?

Technology is both a savior and a curse, and the challenges we face every day within the business make it hard to unplug at times!

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be curious and engaged. Ask questions, request feedback, engage in conversation with people at all levels and find inspiration in those conversations.

Strive for clarification and set expectations. A lot of issues in business come from misunderstanding and lack of alignment. Ensuring clarity and alignment on goals and priorities as well as expectations (whether they are yours or senior management) will result in a lot less frustrations and inefficiencies.

Be open to change but stay true to yourself. Change is inevitable and beneficial, so embrace it, lead it. Open yourself to opportunities that come your way, even if the path is not always clear. But don’t lose the core of who you are.

CATHLEEN ALLRED Krispy Kreme

Years with company: 12 Current position: Senior Vice

President of Human Resources and Organizational Development

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Human Development & Family Studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro MBA, High Point University

Who are your mentors and

Ken Hudson, former senior vice president of HR at Krispy Kreme, was my Edition mentor and helped me get to where I am today. He allowed me to grow in my career and take on new responsibilities as I was ready, and sometimes when I did not believe I was ready.

Cindy Bay, the SVP of U.S. Franchises & Company Stores, is another mentor.

Cindy taught me the importance of giving back to women within our organization. We need to always seek out opportunities to lift each other up.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

50

Year�!

I am so very thankful to my family at home and at Krispy Kreme who encouraged me.

Most challenging part of your job?

Finding the appropriate balance between work and family.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Do not wait to be asked.

When you see an opportunity, if it makes sense, you need to go for it. Do not hesitate to take on new challenges in your current role without the promotion. The experience you will gain, and the exposure that comes with it, will pay off in the long run.

Hobbies: Spending time with my hus husband and two kids.

I went back to school for my MBA while working full time and having a family. That is something I am extremely proud of. It was a difficult time for my family; balancing work and home is hard but adding school was definitely a challenge. I am proud that I was able to see it through to get my degree.

1/20/15 11:36 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 3

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

3

1/20/15 11:41 AM

4

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

MELISSA ANGLE

UNFI (United Natural Foods Inc.) Years with company: Seven (current) and three previously

Current position: National Di-

rector, Supplier Relationship Management

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Management & Marketing, Eastern Connecticut State University

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Throughout my career, I have been strongly influenced by John Raiche. John

and I have worked together for close to 16 years, and throughout this time, he has provided me opportunities to enhance my skill set and develop areas that have helped me become a well-rounded individual.

During my college years, my basketball coach Bob Miller instilled an environment of structure, teamwork, discipline, hard work and time management, all of which I employ in both my personal and professional life today.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Looking back at my career, I feel that my biggest accomplishment is my ability to work “through the ranks” to be where I am today. When I first started with UNFI in 1998, I was a marketing coordinator. I am amazed at how far I have come. However, I have worked hard to get where I am and it truly illustrates how hard work and dedication really pay off.

Most challenging part of your job?

Today, I feel that most difficult part of my job is ensuring all tasks are met on time and according to expecta-

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

tions. Given the growth of our organization (which is a great problem to have), it is difficult at times to juggle the day-to-day along with the additional projects/tasks that come our way.

In response to the growing need to fight childhood hunger, we founded our Cakes for Kids program in 2010, donating food and a portion of our profits each year.

We also participate in the Wounded Warrior Project, donating a portion of our profits each year.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Patience! From my experiences throughout my career, I have discovered that patience is one of the most important aspects of any job. Particularly with younger executives, it is important to employ patience – learn the job, master it, develop new skills and enhance existing skills before looking at taking that next step. Although you may want more now, trust me, learning the ropes before moving to the next level will only benefit you in the long run.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

SUSAN AXELROD

Love and Quiches Gourmet Years with company: 41 Current position: Chairwoman and Founder

Hobbies:

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

I have two children, 13 and 17 years old, which certainly takes up a significant amount of my time. My daughter is actively engaged in sports, so much of our evenings and weekends are spent attending practices and/or games.

BA, Hofstra University Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF), National Restaurant Association, Inflight Foodservice Association (IFSA), National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO).

I N

T H E

F O O D

I have usually been the mentor during my 40-year career, but early on, a restaurateur, the late Marvin Paige, encouraged me to move my target market from the suburbs to New York City, taught me the foodservice business and introduced me around, which provided the catalyst to our becoming a national and, now, a company with global reach.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Publishing my business memoir, “With Love and Quiches: A Long Island Housewife’s Surprising Journey From Kitchen To

Boardroom,” chronicling my 40-year career, all the pain and the glory.

Most challenging part of your job?

Business ownership, even with a well-developed organization with talented high performance teams, is both daunting and 24/7. It is the leadership you bring to the table that provides the vision driving the success.

Next-leveling is a constant or ground will be lost.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: There is never a straight line to the top; the road will always wind. Concentrate on your strengths, appreciate the value of teamwork, work for the betterment of the organization as a whole, not for yourself, and your contribution and successes will be recognized.

Hobbies: Travel, reading (fiction and memoirs), walking and food.

I N D U S T R Y

Congratulations to the 2015 Women of Influence Inductees.

You all have all the ingredients of great leaders.

From Master Martini USA a global leader in Chocolate, Bakery Ingredients and Gelato.

Joe Campbell jcampbell@mastermartiniusa.com • 917-968-1722

Master Martini_02_GriffinWOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 4

1/16/15 2:13 PM

1/20/15 11:37 AM

What makes Jenny a true woman of influence?

CONGRATULATIONS JENNY! From All Your Friends at New England Dairy Promotion Board 1034 Commonwealth Avenue Boston, MA 02215 617-734-6750 MustBeTheMilk.com

NE Dairy_02_GR_WOI.indd 1

2/3/15 2:15 PM

6

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION rel Workshop, Pencils for Promise, Paws for the Cause Dog Walk – and helping my daughter earn the Bronze Service Award for The President’s Volunteer Service Award.

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

DANA BARBA The Coca-Cola Co.

Years with company: 18 Current position: Area Vice President, Shopper Marketing & Commercial Planning

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, College of the Holy Cross Post-grad, Harvard University Extension School Active participant in Northeast Women’s LINC; member of Network of Executive Women; marketing and communications advisory committee for YMCA of Greater New York; development board for Ann’s Place International Coastal Clean Up, Coca-Cola Rain Bar-

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 6

Both formal and informal mentors have helped me develop as a leader, provided advice and influenced my management style. Mentors helped me learn the value of customer relationships, taking risks and setting priorities. Two pieces of advice remain with me most: “If you have a passion for something, find a way to engage, regardless of your role” and “Support and nurture women in your network.”

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Defining moments have happened throughout my career – from developing and launching great initiatives like FRIDGEPACK and our very first small PET multipack to the work we are leading in strategic planning with customers and partners with the Coca-Cola Way of Shopper Marketing. Additionally, I am proud of the work I led to build a leader-

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

member, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

ship market and business development process and plans for strategic markets like New York, Miami and D.C. And most importantly, it has been incredibly rewarding to see teams I’ve built and led achieve results, support each other and overcome challenges together.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

Balance. Being a leader, single mom, friend, sister, daughter, coach and volunteer requires balance. And while balancing all of these roles is my biggest challenge, the results are my greatest reward.

KATY BARCLAY The Kroger Co.

Years with company: Five Current position: Senior Vice

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

President of Human Resources

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Create your own roadmap for success. Chart your path and remember it may not always be a straight line up.

Don’t choose jobs based on title/pay alone; be sure to balance with passion for the work. Always think ahead when making your next decision. And most of all, take all your vacation.

BA, Michigan State University MBA, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Chair, National Academy of Human Resources; board member, Human Resource Policy Association; Cincinnati United Way Women’s Leadership Council; board

I’ve been very fortunate to be connected with strong, impactful leaders during my career. At an early stage in my career, I made a point to identify powerful attributes of these leaders and learn to emulate them. It’s a gift to have the opportunity to learn from others, and I give that advice to young professionals seeking tips for their personal development.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am most proud of being in the people and leadership business. It’s the lifeblood of a company. The fact that I’ve had the opportunity to help so many others achieve their leadership and career potential is endlessly rewarding. Joining Kroger five years ago is my defining moment, because I have been given the opportunity here to apply to a great com-

pany all of my experience and knowledge gained in 30 years in the HR business.

Most challenging part of your job?

Prioritizing and allocating my time in a way that creates the most value for our company. Staying focused on the things that matter most is something I work at every day.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Get as much experience as possible in different parts of your company. It builds your business skills and helps you learn how real value is created. Keep stretching yourself and get out of your comfort zone.

Hobbies: Music, playing piano and tennis.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 7

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

7

1/20/15 11:42 AM

8

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

SAMANTHA BARTMAN Acosta Sales & Marketing

Years with company: 4½ Current position: Business

Manager, Ahold USA

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Management, Concentration in Retail and Supply Chain Management, Babson College Member of Network of Executive Women Co-Chair of the Acosta Mechanicsburg Culture Committee

Throughout my life, I have had numerous mentors in a variety of different roles who have helped shape me into the person I am today.

My family, who fostered my strong work ethic and drive for achievement; coaches/ professors, who taught me that hard work and dedication will allow you to achieve your goals; and colleagues/ supervisors, who have taught me about this industry and have helped me navigate through the challenges we face day to day. All of these people have generously donated their time and knowledge to mentor me and for that I am extremely grateful.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

A defining moment in my career was when I accepted an offer to relocate to Pennsylvania and be a part of the Acosta Ahold team. The Ahold business is incredibly important to Acosta as it is our largest retailer in the eastern region.

I was honored to be viewed as someone who could make a positive difference on this im-

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

portant team.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is balancing customer and client needs while adapting to a constantly changing environment. Every day we encounter situations that require quick problem-solving and decision-making. In my role, it is important to understand the priorities of both the customer and client to be able to find a solution that will be beneficial to both parties.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Daymon Worldwide

My advice for upcoming executives is to always be true to yourself and stand by your values. Use those values to guide you through tough decision, no matter how hard it may be. Be trustworthy and true to your word; always follow through on your commitments.

Years with company: Five Current position: Senior Director, Brand and Marketing Strategy

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Babson College Mentor, Babson Coaching for Leadership and Teamwork Program (CLTP)

Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing sports, cooking and traveling.

fort zone and required me to learn new skills.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

I have built a network of advocates who I trust when I need to problem-solve in my career. Discussing challenges with people across levels, backgrounds and industries has provided me with a unique perspective and has given me the courage to accept different roles over the years.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I enjoy coaching and developing young associates, and I am very proud of the team I manage today. I am fortunate to work with a very smart, motivated group who strive to lead the industry.

Joining Daymon five years ago was a defining moment in my career. Having grown up in traditional CPG companies, it was a move that took me outside of my com-

Driving profitable sales while balancing the needs of retailers who are at various stages of their brand evolution.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Remember that you are the architect of your career, so be bold and be brave. Have a plan, but remember to be flexible and patient, always accept stretch assignments when they are offered to you and build your personal network to support you as you grow.

Hobbies: Pilates, skiing and spending time with family.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 8

AIMEE FERREIRA BECKER

Member, Women in Store Brand Excellence (WISE)

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

9

Congratulations

CindyNaes As a sales, marketing, and procurement cooperative, F.A.B. provides complete Member support by using proven practices designed to facilitate growth in all aspects of its Member companies.

Through revenue generating programs, quality brands, unique training opportunities, and outstanding Member services, F.A.B.’s Members enjoy increased growth year after year.

frostyacres.com FAB_02_GR_WOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 9

800.569.4821 1/14/15 9:59 AM

1/20/15 11:42 AM

10

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

how have they assisted you in your career?

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

PATRICIA BERRIOS

Anheuser-Busch Years with company: 25 Current position: Senior Key Account Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Bachelor’s, University of Scranton, Scranton, Pa. Member, The Ursuline School Mothers’ Club (where my daughter is a senior) and The Fordham Preparatory School (where my son is a sophomore).

Also has served as a Girl Scout leader, girls’ softball coach and statistician for Catholic Youth Organization boys’ basketball program.

Who are your mentors and

I am fortunate to have had two mentors at AnheuserBusch who played an important role in my professional development. Ed Fitzmaurice both encouraged and empowered me to lead a sales team in a very challenging work environment. Ed’s guidance permitted me to achieve aggressive sales results in a competitive marketplace.

Sal Dibetta willingly shared with me the depth of his sales and marketing knowledge so that I could succeed. Both of these men are visionary executives who imparted their extensive industry knowledge, challenged me to take calculated risks, provided unwavering support and fostered my commitment to the beer industry.

I am personally grateful for the influence of my parents who encouraged me, my three brothers who fueled my competitiveness and my husband and children for their love and support.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am most proud of developing, mentoring and leading

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

a sales team to exceed goals and expand their horizons both professionally and personally. The most rewarding moments in my career are when my sales team succeeded in meeting their goals and enhanced their own knowledge of the industry.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging aspect of my job is always to provide a high level of personal interaction with my customers while simultaneously dealing with the demands and opportunities presented by technology.

LYNNE BOHAN HP Hood LLC

Years with company: 16 Current position: Vice Presi-

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

dent, Communications and Government Affairs

My advice for young executives is that although they must master the advantages that technology provides, they must also be cognizant of the fact that the industry still requires personal interaction with its customers on a regular basis.

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Simmons College, 1992 President, Charles Hood Scholarship Fund Board Member, Milk Processors Education Program (MilkPep) Appointed by the Governor

of Massachusetts to serve on the Massachusetts Dairy Farm Revitalization Task Force Board Member, Massachusetts Dairy Promotion Board Active member of the International Dairy Foods Association’s Member Media Network, Dairy Management Inc.’s Common Voice Network, the Northeast Dairy Foods Association, and the Government Affairs Committee of the Massachusetts Food Association.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have several personal and professional mentors who have encouraged me to be persistent and confident.

fessional and a person. Dealing with issues management and crises have been the biggest challenges.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Same advice I give my daughters: Be kind. Be confident. Be honest. There is great satisfaction in doing things you THINK you cannot do. Work hard. Selfentitlement is an ugly attribute. There is no such thing as work/life balance. Good things happen when you “go for it.”

Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends and running.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I don’t have a single defining moment, but there have been several events and occasions that have challenged me and helped me develop as a pro-

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Congratulations

Lynne Bohan HP HOOD_02_GriffinWOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 10

1/13/15 4:13 PM

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 11

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

11

1/20/15 11:44 AM

12

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

BBA, University of Redlands

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

KAREN BORIE Valley Fine Foods

Years with company: One. But I have been in the food industry all my life. My grandparents owned three grocery markets in Long Beach, California, and both of my parents worked in the grocery business all their lives. My brother, Scott Borie, worked for Dreyer’s Ice Cream for over 30 years and is now with Nestlé Frozen and Refrigerated in Southern California which now owns Dreyer’s.

Current position: Executive

Vice President of Sales & Business Development

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Sidney E. Borie, my dad, former vice president of Anthony Macaroni Co., taught me to never take no for an answer and that you can do anything you set your mind to do Vicki Toutz, my former best high school coach and teacher, taught me confidence, strategic thinking, how to mentor and coach others, plus never to settle for second best.

Bob Otto, former senior VP of Nestle, taught me to be a strong, smart businesswoman and to always remember “perception is everything” in life.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am most proud of the men and women on the business teams that I have mentored and coached through the years, watching their successes and having them achieve their own dreams.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

job?

Work hard and smart, never give up! Be passionate and believe in what you are doing. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks.

Find a way to voice your thoughts and opinions in a positive manner. Build relationships, networks and friendships in your career and in life.

LISA LAWINGER BROWN

NECSA (New England Convenience Store Association) Years with company: Five Current position: Director of

Programs and Events

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Theatre and Communications, Loyola Marymount University Member, WID: Women in Development Previously a member of Women in Media Volunteer, Team in Training

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 12

I reflect back on my favorite college professor, Dr. Kathryn B. Free at Loyola Marymount, who always reminded me to stay focused: believe that the possibilities are endless if you stay positive and learn from both your mistakes and successes. And to never forget that women are powerful and intelligent, so not to be deterred from pursuing anything, even if it seemed a historically “maledriven” industry.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am proud of the successes we have achieved growing NECSA membership, events and awareness during a challenging market and downturn in the economy. The industry is constantly evolving and we are adjusting to these changes by providing our members with the services and networking opportunities they need to thrive in this environment. There have been many striking moments in the last 20-plus years, but

KERI BROWN Giant Eagle Inc.

Years with company: 7½ Current position: Regional

Director of Operations

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Hobbies:

BA, University of Pittsburgh Graduate: Duquesne University Women’s Executive Leadership Program Girl Scouts of Western PA leader; Wexford Elementary PTO committee chair; Perry Highway Lutheran ChurchSunday School teacher and Mutual Ministry Commit-

I love to cook when I have the time to really create, shop and use my imagination.

Watching football — college and the NFL. Go ’Niners!

Traveling to places far away that I would have never even dreamed I would be able to go one day. Reading mystery novels.

The first and most important mentor in my life is my grandmother. She taught me, at a young age, the value of working hard and caring for others. She also taught me the importance of giving back. She has inspired me to always strive to do more.

I have also had many professional mentors throughout my career. They all have shared their experiences and challenged me to be my best.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

as I moved up to the next position in my career progression.

Most challenging part of your job?

I love challenges. My job provides me with new challenges every day. I enjoy the variety of work and the new opportunities that my job presents on a regular basis.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice is to always be your authentic self. We are all unique and our differences make us beautiful. It is so important to be true to yourself.

Hobbies: Spending time with my husband and two children, running half-marathons, skiing, reading and exercising.

My proudest career achievements occur when I am able to mentor and develop my team to take on new roles and challenges. I enjoy seeing people do more than they ever thought was possible.

The most defining moments in my career have happened

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Most challenging part of your

and Home Base Charities

tee; United Way Women’s Leadership Council member; Women’s Business Resource Group (Giant Eagle) vice president.

Helping to instill optimism and positive thinking with my teams and peers. It is always a temptation to say “we can’t do that” or “we’ve done that before and it didn’t work.” Can we tweak this idea or thought and make it work this time???

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

in the last five with NECSA, having increased our revenue by over 20 percent and increasing membership and participation, have been very rewarding.

Most challenging part of your job?

Having a small staff to support a large area and juggling all the tasks and responsibilities that comes with having multiple roles.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Never forget the art of listening; mastering this skill can advance you in any position.

Realizing that listening is an integral part of the sales process. Being able to listen to your customers and potential clients will enable you to meet their needs.

Hobbies: Enjoying time with my husband and our four children ages 13, 10, 9 and 2 and a half as well as running, biking, skiing, golf, painting, crafts and traveling.

JOSANNA BUSBY

Delhaize America Years with company: 9½ Current position: Category Manager, Seafood & Frozen Meats

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business, Indiana University Member, Network of Executive Women (NEW)

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Throughout my career, I have had mentors that have influenced me in many ways by providing support and offering honest and constructive feedback. It would be difficult to single out any one individual mentor, other than my parents. They taught me at an early age that you always finish what you start and never give up when things get difficult. I am very thankful for each person that has influenced my career and am grateful for their support and guidance.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

My career took an entirely different path 24 years ago while I was working as a store manager for a regional drug chain. I thought this was the direction I wanted to pursue, but my director of operations and VP of operations convinced me to interview for a buyer’s role.

This was a defining moment in my career because had it not been for those two individuals, I would not

be where I am today. I am proud of the positions I have held and the impacts to the business I have made.

Most challenging part of your job?

Managing time in order to meet current and new priorities as they arise. Also, ensuring you have a work/life balance.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Have a plan and vision for what you want in your career, but don’t be afraid to take on new challenges that may not be a part of your plan. Be confident in yourself and don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but learn from them. Enjoy what you do.

Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, photography and spending time with family and friends.

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 13

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

13

1/20/15 11:44 AM

14

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION from Canisius College.

Delta Business Insight bronze certification

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

MARGARITA CARABALLO Tops Friendly Markets

Years with company: 15 Current position: Category

Manager of Bulk, Candy, Condiments, Commercial Bakery, Cookies, Crackers, PB/Spreads & Warehouse Beverages

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Management, Canisius College MS, Organizational Leadership, Medaille College Currently pursuing an MBA

The most impactful mentors I have had been the informal relationships that I have had along my career. They have been peers that I have respect for who they are and their genuine interest in helping me along the way, such as Dave Damrath and Bill Steggs, who were my previous supervisors along with Cathy Shifflet, vice president of our center store. They all believed in me and always were honest and provided candid feedback that has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

for my current employer who has employed me since college and supported me along my career path from store operations to my current role as a category manager.

Most challenging part of your job?

Juggling all aspects of my job and maintaining a work/ life balance.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be aware of your brand and be open to feedback. Continuous self-improvement is key to success. Networking and building relationships are vital to future success in one’s career. Don’t be afraid to seek mentorship and guidance, it’s OK not to have all the answers.

Acosta Sales & Marketing

During my years at Acosta I have been fortunate to have many great teachers and mentors that have helped me navigate the many complexities of the food industry. In addition, my father has had the biggest influence in my life. He has instilled in me a strong work ethic and has been a great soundingboard over the years for many of life’s challenges, both personal and professional.

For the up-and-coming professionals entering the field I would say that one of the most important things that you can do is keep the pressures of the job in perspective and develop as many solid relationships as possible.

It will enhance the long-term rewards of the job.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, with Marketing concentration, Providence College

Most challenging part of your job?

Business Manager

Working out and spending time with my children.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

One of the achievements of my career that I am most proud of has been my ability to find a balance between the demands of work and family life.

Years with company: 13 Current position: Senior

Hobbies:

The most defining moment in my career has been the challenge of being a single parent and continuing my education while working full-time and attending school. Doing so has given me appreciation

Hobbies: I enjoy traveling, spending time at the beach, cooking, basket making, shopping, gardening and spending time with family and friends.

The most challenging aspect of the job has been managing the needs of the everchanging customer base due the many acquisitions and regional changes.

I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 14

KRISTEN CHOUINARD

Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 15

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

15

1/20/15 11:44 AM

16

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

how have they assisted you in your career?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Being selected for the job I have today by retail executives that I called on during my then-30-plus-year career. Truly an honor!

Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC)

I give a lot of credit to my husband Paul. During the 30 years that we have been married, he has been my No. 1 coach, advisor and voice of reason. Early in my career it was the president of Dr Pepper Southern California, Ray Snyder. Very tough but fair.

He gave me the opportunity to work in sales and get involved in industry organizations. I have been very fortunate to have the support and sponsorship of true legends in the food industry, many whom have served in leadership roles with the WAFC. I am so grateful for their trust in me.

Years with company: Seven Current position: Chief Oper-

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

CAROLE

CHRISTIANSON

ating Officer

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Graduate, USC Food Industry Executive Program Co-Founder, Kids4Hope at the City of Hope Former trustee, California Grocers Association Educational Foundation

Being the first woman: Chief Operating Officer of the WAFC; Illuminator Headlite; NCCJ Humanitarian Award honoree; National winner of the Coca-Cola “Above the Line” award for Outstanding Sales Development; Chair of the Combined Food Sales of Southern California.

former director of associate relations for Weis Markets; and Orly Ronan, former director of associate relations, Weis Markets.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Most challenging part of your job:

Hobbies: Spending time with my son Lincoln and husband Scott, reading, canvas painting and Zumba.

Working for Weis Markets my entire career thus far, and having encountered truly wonderful and inspiring people along the way.

Finding ways to deliver increasing value to all WAFC stakeholders: Board of Directors; Scholarship Donors; Illuminators, Convention Delegates, etc.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

LINDA COBLE, SPHR

Most challenging part of your job?

Years with company: 18 Current position: Human Re-

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Weis Markets

Be a student of the industry: take every opportunity to learn, get involved and network. Design your destiny: set goals, write them down and stay focused. Do not fear change — embrace it as an adventure, and never compromise your integrity.

sources Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Pennsylvania State University College Park SPHR Certification

Hobbies: Planning our daughter Amanda’s October 2015 wedding; being a grandma to Ashlee & Matt’s baby boy, Jackson Paul, born 12/2/2014; football; country music; and travel.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Creating and maintain a culture of engagement.

Make time for self-development, especially communications skills. Self-development will not only help you understand yourself but also assist with accomplishing goals, managing time more effectively, adapting to change and, most importantly, building better relationships both at home and at work.

My parents; Allan Corcoran,

Who are your mentors and

I N

I have had many mentors in my career, and the most important role they have played in my development is providing me with honest feedback.

They have encouraged me to have a voice and stand with confidence regardless of the challenge or obstacle ahead.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

JANINE DEMPSEY

Walmart Stores Inc. Years with company: 3½ Current position: Market Human Resource Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, University of Massachusetts MS, Management, Emmanuel College Professional Human Resource (PHR) Certificate Co-Treasurer, Network of Executive Women

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 16

My defining moment in my career was being asked to be the liaison and lead the partnership for CVS Caremark and the Network of Executive Women while in a diversity management role in 2008. This partnership drove development, diversity and inclusion within our organization at the time and continues today, in my new capacity with Walmart Stores.

I am most proud of the women we have supported and mentored through the College Outreach/Mentoring program with the Network of Executive Women.

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

I love my job and the work that I do to advocate and develop my team, but the most difficult challenge in my role, or any role, is staying relevant. Being ahead of the change, making time to think, brainstorm and innovate in a fast-paced environment is not always easy but absolutely necessary.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be true to yourself always!

Drive your own development, don’t wait for others to. There is meaning in setbacks; learn from them and move on. Learn how to have difficult conversations with respect and genuine interest for the person you are speaking with. This will be so valuable in your career.

Find out what differentiates you from the pack and leverage this.

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, walking with my dogs, interior decorating and I love to bake!

KATHLEEN DiCHIARA

Community FoodBank of New Jersey Years with company: 32 Current position: Founder,

President and CEO

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Education, State University of New York at Oneonta Eight Honorary Doctorates from colleges/universities in New Jersey and New York

Nothing in my educational background had anything to do with operating a warehouse. Along the way I learned to drive a forklift, to know what a pallet and pallet jack were, how to assemble racking for the most efficient picking of orders – I started at ground zero in all of that. The grocery retailers of New Jersey were my mentors and provided—and still do—all kinds of assistance way beyond food.

Alan Bildner cared greatly about the poor and hungry in New Jersey and was a wonderful supporter and mentor right from the very beginning. Tom Infusino said yes to my request to “borrow” a reefer when I received a donation of frozen vegetables with no place to store them.

Wakefern and Kings have continued over decades of support and guidance begun by their great leaders.

The mentoring and support from Stop & Shop, Foodtown, Wegmans, A&P and QuickCheck all contribute to our success and growth.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am most proud of the wonderful staff, volunteers, donors and community partners—they make possible what I get credit for.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is that despite our growth to a distribution of 43 million pounds of food and groceries annually, the need is still outpacing us.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be passionate about what you do — it makes a difference.

Hobbies: I have little time for hobbies, but I love working in my garden and being with family and friends.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in

1/20/15 11:37 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

My teacher, Sally Davis, showed me a world bigger than I had ever been able to see before – and she encouraged me to explore. Also, my godmother, Gladys Santoro, also a Latina, taught me that my present doesn’t have to be my future.

JACQUELINE VARGAS DONOVAN Fairway Market

Years with company: 5½ Current position: Vice Presi-

dent and Director of Marketing

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Economics, Hamilton College Mini-MBA, Digital Marketing, Rutgers, The State University of NJ Speaker, Save Latin America

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

February 2015

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

“Fortune favors the bold” – don’t muzzle your ideas.

Write them down and don’t edit yourself. Good writing and recordkeeping will always serve you, but you must practice.

Hobbies: Reading, running and Pilates.

SUSAN DURFEE

I’m proud and honored to be a trailblazer for Latinas in the New York Grocery and food industry. Having the opportunity to ring the bell at NASDAQ when Fairway Market went public was a defining moment in my career because I was a part of making that history happen.

Tops Markets, LLC Years with company: 13 Current position: Director of

Bakery

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Administration, University of New York at Buffalo Cornell University Food Industry Management Program Environmental Board for Colden, New York

Most challenging part of your job?

Challenging myself to make sure that I am constantly grooming my team and allowing them, individually, live up to his or her potential.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 17

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

T H E

F O O D

I have been very lucky to work with great people who have shared their knowledge and helped me succeed in a business I love. One person is Dave Bordonaro, my boss while I was a category manager in non-perishables. He helped teach me the importance of making sure we remember the customer and store needs in all decisions we make. Also, Cathy Shifflett has been a tremendous mentor for me. She taught me to have confidence in the decisions I make and how to make sure you take advantage of “your seat at the table.”

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am proud of contributions I have made to help our stores meet our customer’s needs. It is rewarding to be in the stores and have them tell you how you have helped them, whether it is in meeting customer demands or helping them to

17

do their jobs better.

Most challenging part of your job?

The biggest challenge is keeping up with the changing needs of the business.

As labor becomes an increasing challenge, customers’ expectations have grown. So the balance of meeting the customer’s needs while maximizing resources that are available can be a challenge.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be confident in yourself.

When opportunities arise for you to step up and out of your comfort zone, go ahead and do it. Let others know you want new challenges and opportunities to grow.

Hobbies: Travel and gardening. My husband and I have a goal to visit all the states (we are over halfway there) while continuing to take our annual cruise.

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:38 AM

18

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

son that hired me for Brookshire’s and pushed me outside of my comfort zone in order to enhance my career and make me a better person and employee.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

MICHELLE ELLIOTT

Brookshire Grocery Company Years with company: 25 Current position: Category Manager - Baking & Coffee

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: AA, Behavioral Science, Kilgore College BBA, LeTourneau University MBA-LeTourneau University

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Gene Walker. He is the per-

I am proud of the fact that I started in this company as a sacker in our retail stores and have been able to work my way to category manager. I have learned many valuable lessons along the way and the knowledge that my journey has given me is something that cannot be taught but must be experienced in order to be effective. The defining moment of my career was the day I was named one of the first category managers for Brookshire Grocery Co. BGC did not implement this business process until 2008, and to be part of this incredible change and new beginning for our company was a proud moment for me.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

my way every day. My job is very rewarding, but there is a lot of hard work and prioritizing that has to take place in order to be effective.

A CM (category manager) wears many hats, so just staying on top of everything while keeping up with the changing trends of shoppers can be overwhelming at times.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice is, if you want an education and have been putting it off, go and pursue it now. I regret waiting so late in my career to complete my MBA, and I feel that education is extremely important.

I would also stress patience and learning all that you can about the industry by volunteering to take on extra job duties.

SIMONA FARONI

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

G.S. Gelato and Desserts Inc. Years with company: 18 Current position: Co-founder Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Hobbies:

Bachelor’s, Accounting and Business Management, Italy Participates in several local nonprofit organizations

I enjoy spending time with family and friends and am always open to a new adventure.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is juggling all of the multiple issues, daily tasks, deadlines, etc., that come

my greatest mentors, even before I realized it. Throughout my life they have shaped my character, taught me the importance of personal integrity and instilled in me very important core principles that truly defined who I have become as a woman, a wife and entrepreneur.

My husband is my business partner. His bursting energy is contagious. He is my mentor and he teaches me patience.

I think that my parents were

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

The confirmation that in life, when you believe, all things are possible. With such a credo, you move mountains.

Starting GS Gelato from a zero-dollar, zero-cents company and growing the company to the size it is today would be my most proud achievement. Coming to the United States without knowing English, in a market that did not know gelato, was a tremendous challenge.

But my husband and I had this burning desire to grow G.S. Gelato, and we put our heart and soul into the company. Since 1998, the company has seen double-digit growth every year. Through

all odds, we are living our American Dream. But what is most important is that we could not do any of this if we did not have fantastic people believing in us and working hard to succeed.

Most challenging part of your job?

In today’s market, the biggest challenge is to stay innovative and always be projected in the future, reacting fast to the continuous market evolution and consumer demands.

Advice for upcoming younger executives?

Never give up on your dreams. Sometimes it is easier to view difficulties that arise in life as failures and not as opportunities for growth. The other very important element I would like to mention is “passion.” The love for the path that is chosen is the fuel that ignites everything and the strength to succeed through moments of doubt and difficulty.

Hobbies: I find peace in running. I also enjoy cooking, gardening, reading and traveling the world.

Roche Bros. congratulates

Maggie McLaughlin & Aimee Morgida on being honored by

I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Both chosen for their highly visible contributions to our industry, their professionalism and the awareness they have generated for the potential of other women in our industry.

www.rochebros.com

rocheBros_02_GR_WOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 18

1/19/15 5:53 PM

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

19

Congratulations April, Jill, Lisa, and all 2015 honorees!

We are proud of your accomplishments, leadership and dedication.

April Rosebrooks Supervisor, Customer Service Department

Imperial_02_GR_WOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 19

Jill Pope Account Manager

Lisa Schaffer Account Manager

1/12/15 2:34 PM

1/20/15 11:44 AM

20

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

SHELLEY FEIST

Partnership for Food Safety Education Years with company: 11 Current position: Executive Director

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, University of Minnesota, Moorhead

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Tim Hammonds, formerly with FMI, and Bryan Silbermann, president and chief executive officer of the Pro-

duce Marketing Association, are both former volunteer chairmen of the Partnership’s board that I had the pleasure of working with when I first started. Both instilled in me the founding spirit of the Partnership, which is around collaboration and cooperation of public/private sectors in the interest of the health of American consumers.

Working with them both helped me to carry forward those important foundational values as the Partnership grew and changed.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Most challenging part of your job?

Producing high-impact results with limited financial and human resources.

You have to be very conscious in leadership. It is a discipline and a meditation – it isn’t something you add to your skill set.

Hobbies: Naturalist classes; nostalgic homemaking; drives and walks.

C&S Wholesale Grocers Years with company: 19 Current position: Vice Presi-

My career has been entirely in government and in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors. It is fantastic to be able to work for important causes and make a living doing it. I’m very proud to be steward of an organization that was forged out of mutual commitment around an important consumer health issue and that has kept together its public-private partnership form.

Kerri (Lynch) Aguilo has been a great mentor and role model through my career in merchandising. She has dedicated the time and attention both as a leader and friend to help me grow professionally.

Years with company: 24 Current position: Portfolio

Lead for Specialty, Ethnic, & Kosher

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Bachelor’s, Marketing, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth Executive Food Retail Program, Cornell University

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 20

CAROL FORSHEE

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Ahold USA Retail

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

dent of Fresh Procurement and Merchandising Bachelor’s, University of Minnesota

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have been privileged to have many incredible mentors throughout my career.

They have provided insight, guidance and advice and

I N

NATALIA TORRESFURTADO

most important, challenged and inspired me through each stage of my career.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The proudest moment would be more recent in being promoted to portfolio lead — truly the proudest moment to date in my career.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is navigating through all the uncontrollables and planning how to manage through them, as you would find in many retail organizations. The reward comes when you are able to manage and plan through this and experience positive execution and results.

T H E

F O O D

It has been very rewarding to be a champion for woman associates in the food industry, acting as a mentor and advisor to women on how to successfully traverse the ever-changing terrain.

I have been fortunate to watch many women continue to grow and achieve their goals as they find success building their careers.

Find a career you are a passionate about. Learn something new every day. Take risks without fear of making mistakes, as this is how we learn.

Most important of all, pay it forward when you have achieved your goals by coaching and helping to develop young women just embarking on their journey.

Hobbies: Traveling, cooking and reading a good book.

Most challenging part of your job?

I am fortunate to be working for a company that is growing at an astounding rate year over year. While this is an exciting and rewarding time for all, it is challenging to juggle the ever-changing priorities while keeping the teams focused on customer satisfaction.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

I N D U S T R Y

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

TRUGrocer Credit Union Former member of New England Human Resources Association (NEHRA) and Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM)

Stay focused on the business, don’t give up and be true to who you are as a person.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Hobbies: Spending time with my family, football, gardening and cooking.

CINDY GARNETT

Shaw’s/Star Market Years with company: 35 Current position: Vice Presi-

dent of Human Resources/ Labor Relations

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Human Resources Management, Southeastern Mass University MBA, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth Member, Network of Executive Women (NEW) Advisory Board member,

While I have never had the benefit of a formal “mentor,” I have had many informal mentoring relationships throughout my career. Most recently I have had the privilege of working closely with several senior executives from Albertson’s. These men and women have persevered and thrived through very turbulent times in our industry and have demonstrated a type of resilience and optimism that is exciting and refreshing!

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am very proud to have been chosen to be part of the leadership team at Shaw’s and New Albertson’s Inc. This is a company composed of deeply experienced and dedi-

cated industry professionals.

I am also very proud of the colleagues that I have seen experience success over my many years here.

Most challenging part of your job?

I would say that finding employees who demonstrate the passion for our business that is needed to ensure our mutual success is the most challenging part of the job.

That said, when you find them and see that light in their eyes, it is unbelievably rewarding!

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Keep your eye on the prize, but be the best at every job you do along the way. A positive attitude and willingness to do the hard work is what will propel you toward career success.

Hobbies: Exercise and cruising!

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

ALEXA GRANT Wakefern Food Corp.

Years with company: 22 Current position: Manager of

Learning and Development

Education degrees. professional/volunteer organization: BA, English, University of Rhode Island; M.Ed., University of Pittsburgh, NAAAHR, Network of Executive Women, FMI Future Leaders Planning Committee, SHRM

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

One of my most instrumental mentors is Ernest Bell to whom I reported for many years. He believed that I had

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 21

abilities even I wasn’t aware of. His philosophy was that in order to grow, one had to be challenged beyond what they thought they were capable of. Believe me, he certainly challenged me. Another person who has been influential is my current vice president, Ann Marie Burke.

She’s shown me how to be a more balanced leader. She holds me accountable, trusts my thought process and has given me the ability to make key decisions. It may sound strange, but I worked for an incredibly ruthless person quite a while ago; she too was instrumental. Her team distrusted her; she had little to no integrity and took great joy in “breaking” people. She taught me what not to aspire to.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I love to see my team members grow, whether in confidence or by way of promotion. I feel a sense of pride.

The continued success of our Leaders in Training and Customer Service Excellence programs which I created many years ago give me great satisfaction.

Having earned the trust of

February 2015 Wakefern’s executive staff to include me as a partner in the company’s highly confidential succession planning processes is also an achievement of which I am most proud.

Most challenging part of your job?

I manage a multi-generational, energetic and engaged team of 10. They are my “A Team.” Coaching each of them in accordance with their needs is challenging. I try to adjust the way I communicate feedback so it is understood and motivates them to develop. Because we get involved with so many diverse projects, it’s challenging to stay abreast of all of the activities associated with each of them.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice to upcoming younger executives is simple: Be true to yourself and don’t compromise your values. Expect that mistakes will happen. What matters is how one responds to them that makes the difference.

SUSAN GRAY King Arthur Flour

Years with company: 19 Current position: Director of Research & Development

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: AS, Culinary Art, and BS, Business, Johnson & Wales University Research Chef’s Association (RCA), American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) and the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION My parents and grandmother were great role models, instilling the value of hard work, honesty and kindness. My favorite high school teacher, Mr. Barr, made biology fascinating and was always respectful of every student, gifted or not. PJ Hamel, one of the first people I worked for at King Arthur Flour, encouraged me in so many ways.

My current manager, Mark Tecca, is willing to push me out of my comfort zone when I need it, even when I don’t fully appreciate it at the time.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I prefer not to think of a defining moment in my career but instead of what King Arthur Flour and my team have achieved over the past 19 years. We’ve experienced tremendous growth, more than tripling our workforce, with a corresponding growth in sales. We’re employee-owned and a B Corp., so success in one area means success for all.

21

I’m especially proud of our line of gluten-free mixes.

When it first launched, we received many heartfelt letters of thanks from customers who appreciated the quality and taste of our new products – not necessarily a common response to new product launches. We received letters from parents telling us how grateful they were their children could enjoy family meals again and bring treats to school. They no longer needed to feel left out of class parties; and could eat a sandwich that looked like a real sandwich.

I’m proud that King Arthur was one of the first successful major players in this area, and that we’ve made it much easier for people to eat glutenfree – not an easy thing in our very food-centric society.

Most challenging part of your job?

Time management — there are always more projects than we have time to investigate. More questions than we have time to find the answers to. More “stuff” we just want to know.

Also challenging is keeping current with the rapid changes in food regulations.

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:38 AM

22

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION delphia Chapter of NEW Past President and Board Member, Irish American Business Chamber & Network Served on the Category Management Association’s University Advisory Council Board Member of the Philadelphia Irish Charity Contributor to the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Marketing Association

CHRISTINE HARTMANN Saint Joseph’s University

Years with company: 10, plus 25 years in leadership positions with Campbell Soup, Nielsen, Weaver, Ore-Ida and Scott Paper Current position: MBA Director (recently transitioned from Executive Food Marketing Program)

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, University of Albany, Magna Cum Laude MBA, Widener University, Signum Laudis Founding member and former regional officer, Phila-

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

My parents served as my first mentors as they modeled the values of hard work, perseverance and the joy of accomplishment in their daily lives. In my professional career, I owe much to three mentors. In my very first job in sales at Scott Paper, my first mentor was John Panarese. John, who had more confidence in me than I may have had in myself, provided me with many opportunities for growth. At Campbell Soup, I was fortunate to have Kathleen MacDonnell as my boss, a demanding leader who inspired me every day to do a little more, a little better. Sadly, she passed away. In my transition from

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

corporate to academia, I was encouraged and supported by the wisdom and wit of Dr. Rich George, a 40-year veteran of Saint Joseph’s University.

Massachusetts Restaurant Association Board of Directors 2012-15; Massachusetts Restaurant Education Foundation Board of Directors 2013-current.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I am most proud of the times when my teams broke through paradigms, uncovered significant business opportunities and transformed ideas into commercial successes that were recognized externally. I was honored to address industry audiences about these initiatives at major conferences such as FMI, CMA and the Global Retailing Symposium in Paris. My defining moment was when I chose to enter the food industry immediately after graduating from college. I had two job offers, one with Scott Paper selling toilet tissue to supermarkets in Brooklyn and the other planning conventions in Bermuda for the American Writers Guild.

I chose the former, which only goes to prove you have to be a little crazy to love this industry!

I N

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have had many mentors in my career and they all have helped me in different ways.

Some created a path for me to grow in my career, some were a soundingboard and provided honest feedback and others challenged me to think outside the box and try new things.

CHERYL HINKSON Hannaford

Years with company: 28 Current position: Director of

Operations

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Bachelor’s, Business Administration and Management Project Management Certificate Network of Executive Women (NEW) Massachusetts Food Association (MFA) Volunteer Big Brothers/Big Sisters

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 22

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The proudest moments for me are when I see someone that I had a hand in their development achieve their career goals. I enjoy developing associates and being a mentor to others. A defining moment for me was when I made the decision to move myself and my family to advance my career. I moved from Maine, where I have always lived, to Massachusetts to take on the role of director of operations. A new role in a new state took me outside my comfort zone and challenged me to be a stronger leader.

T H E

DENISE HERRERA

Burtons Grill LLC Years with company: 10 Current position: Vice Presi-

dent of Operations

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: AOS, Culinary Arts, and BS, Foodservice Management, Johnson & Wales University UMASS Emerging Leaders Cohort 2012; Culinary Enrichment and Innovation Program Inaugural Class 2010; Les Dames d’Escoffier Boston Chapter; F O O D

exercising

and

Advice for upcoming younger executives: The advice I have for upcoming younger executives is to know that you are always being watched by your peers so it is important that you have a good sense of who you are and how you lead.

Practice what you preach.

Hobbies: Hiking, arts and crafts, swimming, gardening, cooking and eating out!

Most challenging part of your job:

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Reading, cooking.

I am most proud of what we at Burtons have accomplished over the past 10 years. I am proud to know that I had a hand in crafting a successful and growing restaurant group with two concepts that focus on quality, integrity and pride along with being able to influence the various people along the

The most challenging part of my job is being able to turn off. I love what I do, therefore I am always seeking more information regarding the hospitality industry and looking for ways to improve upon the guest and employee experiences. I need to remember that I have two young children and they grow up fast!

from my mentors was helping me learn to listen, to have patience and to give credit to those who contributed to the result.

Balancing the needs of the customers, associates and stakeholders. Sometime they have competing priorities, and in my role I need to balance the needs of all of them at different levels to execute on all the priorities.

Hobbies:

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Most challenging part of your job?

I N D U S T R Y

Most challenging part of your job?

Be yourself and focus on your strengths. We all have skills that we are strong in, and skills are not our strengths.

Sometime we spend too much time trying to excel at a skill that is not a strength and get frustrated since it is not truly who we are. We may not be able to change our areas that are not as strong for us, but we can manage those skills that we are not as strong in and excel at the skills that are our strengths.

Professor Carlomusto and Kevin Harron have been two mentors of mine who both taught me about perseverance. Kevin has always taught me to be the leader I want my team members to become and to be self-reflective and self-accountable.

When you reach a certain executive level you have to keep challenging yourself as you are your own self-motivator. Stay real.

way. My defining moment is when I was asked to hang up my chef coat and oversee all operations of the restaurants.

CINDY IZZO

Advantage Sales & Marketing Years with company: Nine Current position: Customer Team Leader

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: University of Notre Dame, Mendoza School of Business

Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Mentors can pass on information within an organization that is only learned through experience. This inhouse teaching is invaluable.

The most valuable learning

As a broker, we are charged to gain agreement between parties. The challenge and the satisfaction are in finding the agreement that is the best win/win for both parties. It is this scenario that fosters long-term business partnerships. It is my hope that these partnerships yield the best offering for the consumers who will ultimately cast the final vote.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Embrace the concept that there is power in true collaboration. This is often a tricky hurdle for those that are competitive and view challenges from a win/lose point of reference.

Hobbies: Skiing, Crossfit.

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 23

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

23

1/20/15 11:45 AM

24

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have had a number of mentors over the years that have provided guidance to me in my career by showing both great professional behavior and also what not to do.

Sometimes poor role models can be just as important to one’s career development.

SIDNEY JORDAN

Trans-Ocean Products Inc. Years with company: 12 Current position: Labeling & Vendor Compliance Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, MS, Food Science & Technology, Oregon State University Certified Food Scientist Member of IFT (Institute of Food Technologists)

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Take opportunities to try new things at your place of employment. Don’t be afraid to volunteer for a committee or task that may not be in your comfort zone. These experiences will help you grow as an individual, both personally and professionally.

Hobbies: Reading, crafts and gardening.

JENNY KARL

New England Dairy Promotion Board

I am most proud of being a part of business teams that have been successful in achieving company goals and financial success.

Years with company: Eight Current position: VP of Marketing and Communications

Most challenging part of your job?

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Although enjoyable, I have always found that working with a diverse group of people to be the most challenging part of my job. To be successful, one has to find the best way to relate to those who work for you, those you work with and those you work for.

BS, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign MS, Nutrition Communication, Tufts University Registered Dietitian Board Member, Massachusetts Dietetic Association

I N

T H E

F O O D

I’ve had informal mentors who have helped me think through job changes and challenges.

Three pieces of advice have stuck with me: • Look beyond the conventional dietitian career path and pursue your passion.

• Seek out opportunities to diversify experiences and your contacts. Always sit with someone you don’t know.

• The only way to grow is to test yourself and take on roles that force you to be uncomfortable and stretch.

You don’t know what you can do unless you just go for it.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

CHERYL KENNICK City of Hope

Years with company: 19 Current position: Senior Di-

rector of Corporate Philanthropy

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Pasadena City College USC Executive Program

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Carole Christianson, COO, Western Association Food Chains

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 24

Most challenging part of your job?

Dealing with families struggling with life-threatening diseases.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Treat others, all others, with kindness and respect. Be yourself. Do the right things

Finding the right work/life boundaries to create a more productive and sustainable way of managing work and home life.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Follow your passion. Don’t be afraid to take risks and ask for what you want.

Hobbies: Gardening, hiking and home improvement projects.

I N D U S T R Y

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

for the right reasons. Try not to let little things bother you.

Remember the only person you can change is you. Be trustworthy.

Hobbies: Horseback riding, gardening, riding my bike with my yellow lab Gigi, spinning classes, cooking and entertaining family and friends.

Most challenging part of your job?

I am most proud of the communications trainings I’ve done with over 200 dairy farmers in New England.

I recall reading the newspaper a week after one of my trainings and saw one

Up; Director of Christian Education; Sunday School teacher

Kevin Davis, Bristol Farms Paul Christianson, Christianson West LLC Sue Klug, Unified Grocers Lillian Zacky, Zacky Farms Dick Spezzano, Spezzano Consulting Co. Marty Craner, B&C Fresh Sales Jan DeLyser, California Avocado Commission Jerry Scorsatto, Vons Grocery Co. Susan Scorsatto, Lands Coffee Co. Celica Martinez, Vons Grocery Co. (retired)

of my participants quoted so eloquently. I didn’t fully appreciate the impact I was having until that moment.

It’s such an honor to train such hard-working people and to be recommended to other groups as a “go-to” resource. It has opened doors to opportunities for myself and my company that I would have never known existed.

VERONICA “RONNIE” KING, SPHR

Blount Fine Foods Years with company: 16 Current position: Senior Director of Human Resources

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Attending Bryant University, Smithfield R.I. Organizations/Volunteer work: SHRM, NEEBC Member of SouthCoast Hospital Business Council for many years, serving as co-chair raising more than $25,000 for the new Cancer Center; mentor with Year

I have had a number of mentors over the year. John Shankey, controller, and Janet Osborn, plant manager with Cape Cod Potato Chips were both pivotal in my career development as I went from line worker to logistics manager, believing in my ability in a male-dominated field, to encouraging my growth as a leader in the Eagle Snacks organization.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Transitioning from director of logistics with Blount to senior director of human resources.

Coming from operations provided a deeper understanding of the needs of the management team and employees.

The challenges came in the form of the ever-evolving legalities associated with human resources, requiring continued education.

My defining career moment came in my first position as a

waitress at Friendly’s many years ago. The manager put a challenge out for the summer that anyone who sold a platter combo would receive a dollar. There were $36 dollars given out that summer and I earned $34. At that first position I learned that hard work and a positive attitude are rewarded.

Most challenging part of your job?

Change management, as the company has grown from 100 to 350 employees. This growth challenges our management team’s continued efforts with employee engagement and maintaining connection with the team.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” Luke 12:48b.

As one climbs the corporate ladder, remember your responsibilities to the employees in your organization, winning as a team.

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 25

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

25

1/20/15 11:45 AM

26

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION egy at a time when most of the peers in my field were not. His guidance led me to embed in my career metricbased analysis, cost modeling, continuous process improvement, continuous innovation and seeing failure as a necessary part of change and the road to success.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

KIRSTEN LANGAN, CFR

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida Years with company: Eight Current position: Director of

Food Strategy & Sourcing

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Public Administration

Who are your Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Jim Stencel led me to take a for-profit approach to operational and sourcing strat-

Being at the forefront and serving as a leader of Feeding America’s produce sourcing initiative engaging the agriculture industry.

Being nominated for the 2014 Feeding America Food Sourcing Leadership Award.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Hobbies: Sailing, Yoga.

running,

Bikram

tract Purchasing Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Johnson & Wales University Chairperson, The Lori Fund, a Perkins fundraising team raising money for cancer research donated to Dana Farber Cancer Center through the efforts of the Pan Mass Challenge Bike Ride.

Two years ago we raised

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 26

CHRISTINE LETARES

Associated Grocers of New England Inc. Years with company: Five.

Prior to this, I worked for a small convenience store distributor for 23 years, where I bought many different categories and was responsible for numerous accounting functions.

The most challenging part of my job is getting potential partners to understand the large scale of operation and distribution that Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida can and does accomplish every day. Once a potential food donor understands that, they become instantly inspired and want

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Years with company: 12 Current position: E&S Con-

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

$156,000 for the cause.

Ten-year volunteer for local Adopt-A-Family program that distributes Christmas gifts to needy families.

GFS/Perkins Paper LLC (E&S Div.)

Bachelor’s, Business Management & Accounting, Franklin Pierce University

As a young executive I’ve found it crucial to have an activity, running, that allows me to unwind, de-stress and quiet my mind. Having a balanced life and mind has led me to being a better director and leader.

Current

My first mentor was my former boss/employer Bob Halpern from TriMark United East. His guidance taught me to be diligent, dedicated and focused. After 28 years I moved on to Perkins.

Bob Crawford, former vice president and general manager of Perkins, and the culture of Perkins has guided me in always doing the “right thing” and finding our place in the foodservice industry.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I started out as a data entry operator and moved through the various departments of accounts receivable, accounts payable, managing purchasing departments, delivery and installation crews and all the while learning something new almost every

position:

Store Buyer

Center

I have had many mentors in my life, and the three who stand out the most are, first, my mother, who taught me to be strong and independent. Second is Emile Tetu, the man who owned that small distributor. Emile impressed upon me the importance of doing things right the first time, and gave me the opportunity to learn all aspects of the business. Most recently is my current manager, Karen St. Louis, who has given me new challenges and opportunities, and the encouragement to learn new categories in the procurement world.

What are you most proud of in you career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Making the transition from a small family-owned com-

I N

ELIZABETH LIARD

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

to know what they can do to help.

T H E

F O O D

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have been fortunate to have tremendous managers who have been great mentors and role models. Listening and learning from their experiences and acting on their advice has assisted me in achieving my goals. I’ve also formed lasting friendships with many of these individuals.

Most challenging part of your job?

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Stay focused, be open-minded, learn as much as you can and learn from your mistakes. It takes time but what you invest in the job and your career will reap the rewards.

Most challenging part of your job?

One of the most challenging parts of my job is balancing home and work. Another is determining which new items are innovative enough to bring in, and will sell.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice would be to actively listen and surround yourself with people who are positive. Someone once said to me, “plan your work, work your plan.” It is important to have a goal each day, even if you do not accomplish it every time.

Hobbies: I like spending time with my family, gardening and reading.

I N D U S T R Y

day. I am proud of being a woman in this industry and creating the connections and contacts I have. Being named a Women of Influence in this industry would be something I am also proud of.

The internet has changed our world, and the competition from online buying and imports makes dealing with customers to make the right decisions more difficult. Price rather than quality is driving everything. There is less loyalty to the dealer community and the new age of restaurateurs has less experience and even less patience. Freight costs, damages, inferior workmanship — all these things add to the day-to-day dilemma of getting the job done.

pany to a large corporation was a defining moment in my life. At first, I did not think that I would make it and then realized that no matter how a big a company is, you know that you are home when you walk through the door in the morning.

ANN LUCAS

Kellogg Company Years with company: Six Current position: National Account Executive

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BBA, Marketing, The University of Iowa Women of Kellogg’s Kellogg’s Mentoring Program Network of Executive Women College Mentoring Program The Junior League of Boston

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I’ve had the privilege of representing two of the largest food manufacturers during my career, managing numerous product categories, serving different customers and living in several states.

Each role has brought different challenges, but I pride myself on bringing the same level of passion and dedication to each job. Throughout my career, I have experienced defining moments of success and failure. These moments have helped me grow personally and professionally.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is finding a balance between work and life demands.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice is to work hard, have a hunger to learn, take advantage of opportunities, don’t be afraid to take risks, and build and maintain strong relationships.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Especially, my husband, Mike, and our spunky Golden Retriever, Rocky.

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 27

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

27

1/20/15 11:45 AM

28

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

CHRISTINE MAGYARITS Wakefern Food Corp.

Years with company: 27 Current position: Community

Relations Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Psychology, Kean University MS, Food Marketing, St. Joseph’s University Member, New Jersey Council of Grantmakers Member, New Jersey Corporate Contributions Group

Throughout my supermarket career, I’ve been exposed to many professionals who have provided me with a “hand up.” Their advice and points of view have been priceless in shaping the way that I think about doing business day to day. There are two women in my life that have been particularly influential. My mother, Ann, was the first and most important mentor in my life. One of the strongest and most resilient women I have ever known, she taught me to always be true to my convictions and uphold my ideals. The work ethic that she instilled in me has served me well in business.

Karen Meleta, vice president of consumer and corporate communications for Wakefern, is a brilliant leader that has provided me with many opportunities for growth.

She is a forward thinker who challenges everyone around her to raise the bar and to think outside the box. Under Karen’s tutelage, I have been fortunate to significantly el-

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

evate Wakefern’s Corporate Social Responsibility platform.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

I’m most proud of my ability to influence Wakefern’s support for the community while managing our organization’s philanthropy. Being able to shed light on the pervasive issue of hunger through the ShopRite Partners In Caring program has been very gratifying. Every day, I’m fortunate to interact with incredibly caring individuals – my Wakefern colleagues, our ShopRite owners and associates and the teams at charitable organizations we support.

Who are your mentors and how they have assisted you in your career?

I was fortunate to have mentors that always coached me to be a strong customer advocate. Periodically, this advice has helped me to rethink my approach when addressing challenges and creating unique solutions.

TERRI RODESKYMcCARTHY ESM Ferolie

Years with company: 14. Has

worked for sales/marketing agencies in metro New York since 1981.

Current position:

Division Manager, Metro NY-Grocery

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Communications, Fordham University Co-Chair, ESM Women In Industry annual fundraiser for The Community Food Bank of New Jersey and

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 28

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Having invested 34 years in the food industry, I am most proud of the more recent opportunity to lead the grocery sales team at ESM. Leading a team that is focused on both customers and clients provides a unique opportunity to nurture and grow both sides of our business.

Over the course of my career there have been many defining moments, but along the way it has become clear to me that a great deal of my success can be attributed to my ability to never look back and always focus on moving forward.

PATRICIA MANCINELLI Bozzuto’s

Years with company: 37 Current position: Sr. Store

Most challenging part of your job?

Designer and Planner

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

The greatest challenge I face is the management of the charitable budget when the need in the community is so great.

BFA, Assumption College, Worcester, Mass.

Attended the Worcester Art Museum School, Clarke University, Worcester, Mass.

Participated in events for Special Olympics through Bozzuto’s Inc. Hometown Foundation for several

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be open to opportunities when they arise, help others and find something that you love to do.

I N

March of Dimes

years.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

T H E

F O O D

I have been very fortunate to have several mentors who have supported me and from whom I have learned so much. I began my career at Bozzuto’s as the head of the Advertising Department.

It was my first managerial position. Bill Hoskins, vice president, was such a strong influence by how he conducted himself with the vendors, fellow employees and especially the customers. He was so well liked and respected and was always a gentleman.

My second most important influence in my early career in the Engineering Department was Michael Bozzuto.

He supported me when I wanted to bring my designs and creativity out of the box.

He encouraged me to take chances even when my vision was not so conventional.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Working with customers to achieve a store that they are proud of is my most personal achievement, and I must thank my vendors and contractors for watching out for me and teaching me so much about this very difficult and rewarding industry. My defining moment is helping Jayne find her Chanel pocketbooks.

Most challenging part of the job?

The most challenging part of my job at the moment is to deal with the increasingly competitive environment and pricing pressure in store design, equipment and construction.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be honest in dealing with people and you will gain respect. Take ownership of your decisions. Listen, keep an open mind and learn what you can from others. A woman in a man’s profession must believe in herself and understand the obstacles and enjoy every minute.

I N D U S T R Y

Most challenging part of your job?

how have they assisted you in your career?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Building a team that is founded on strong individual commitment to the overall group effort. I have always found that is what makes a team work, and a company successful.

My parents are excellent role models. I’ve also been fortunate to work with a number of strong leaders at every step of my career. With their support, I’ve tackled new challenges.

Challenge yourself. Do excellent work and leaders will invest in you. Do not be afraid to take help from others.

Advice for upcoming, younger executives:

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Give every assignment (large or small) your best effort!

And remember that your best effort requires well-thoughtout purpose and direction in order to ensure success!

Hobbies: Theatre, travel and college basketball.

REGINA McCARTNEYMacKAY Weis Markets Inc.

Years with company: 11 Current position: Deli and

Prepared Foods Category Manager/Lead Merchant

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Associate’s, Pastry Arts Board Member for Keystone Partnership, an affiliate of Keystone Human Services

Who are your mentors and

Hobbies: Spending time with my family, traveling and playing golf.

Early in my career, I was offered a promotion into one of two departments. The first option was safe, conservative and familiar. The second was challenging, new and risky. I took the challenging path and loved it. I learned a new area of business and broadened my base of experience.

Most challenging part of your job?

Clearly communicating in a fast-paced retail environment is the most challenging part of my job. I must be clear in my vision, direct, professional and effective as a communicator to associates in the corporate office and across our 163 stores.

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 29

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

29

1/20/15 11:45 AM

30

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

CHELSEA McCOOL

Daymon Worldwide – Omni Global Sourcing Solutions Years with company: 8½ Current position: Senior Manager – Global Sourcing

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Administration, Oklahoma State University

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

There are three areas that mentors assist me with in my career. First, they provide an outside and structured

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

perspective on challenges, making them seem easier to solve. Second, they push me when I am comfortable and challenge me to challenge myself more. Finally, they are a friend, confidant and liberator to help me see that I don’t have to take on everything or be perfect.

ers, suppliers, consumers, etc. A second challenge is managing projects and communication in a global business. Overcoming distance, time, language and cultural barriers in order to become a more efficient and effective company and leader is very exciting and challenging.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

I don’t have one defining moment in my career because I see everything as a journey and learning experience.

For me, it is not about the situations in which you find yourself but how you handle the situations. I am proud of my combined persistence, patience and positivity that have helped me successfully navigate many challenging points in my career. I am also proud to have built strong relationships with internal and external industry professionals globally.

Most challenging part of your job?

Keeping up with change and trying to get in front of it is my biggest challenge.

Change comes from every angle: industry, employment, company, leadership, retail-

Over the past five years Aimee Morgida has been a mentor to me. Aimee has been instrumental in helping me to grow professionally and showing me how to become a better team leader.

She has also shown me the benefits and results of good mentoring.

My first piece of advice is to find your passion. You will be more successful if your job aligns with your values and passions. Second, build a plan to get to where you want to go. Keep in mind that lateral moves are often better than vertical ones as they provide you with targeted skills and knowledge. Finally, don’t give up; getting from point A to point B will take patience and hard work, but it is worth it!

MAGGIE McLAUGHLIN Roche Bros.

Supermarkets Inc.

Years with company: 22 Current position: Store Manager of the Wellesley Roche Bros.

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Hobbies: Traveling, health/wellness (organics, yoga, etc.), hiking, camping, spending time with family and friends.

I graduated from the Mission Church High School in Boston, Mass.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

One of my proudest achievements and defining moments was being nominated and winning the FMI Store Manager of the Year in 2012.

What I am most proud of is that my associates know that I am a team player.

They also know that I am always available to them, be it for a work situation or a personal problem. I have been told that my associates respect and admire me and want to work with me.

of my job is having to have the mindset that no two days are ever the same. I have to be able to multi-task while thinking on my feet, while still providing outstanding customer service.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice for upcoming managers is to make sure that your team knows that you’re a part of them. Jump in when necessary, help as needed, listen to what they say and have a good time doing the job. Also, remember to say “Thank You” and mean it.

Hobbies: My husband and two daughters, my family and spending time on the beach of York, Maine.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 30

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:38 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 31

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

31

1/20/15 11:45 AM

32

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

HOLLY MENSCH

Diamond Foods Inc. Years with company: 1½ Current position: VP of Research, Development & Innovation

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: MBA, Marketing, NYU BS, Business Administration (Marketing & Management), Northeastern University

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

One of my earliest mentors was Pat Callaghan from

Pepperidge Farm. At the time, Pat was in charge of the Frozen division and I was a new brand manager having just done a career switch from marketing research to marketing. I was now responsible for making decisions that would directly impact the day-to-day business and P&L. Pat was not only incredibly accepting, but he was the very best example of a leader that even today I look up to. He was inclusive and treated everyone’s opinions equally. He was smart, deliberate in his decisionmaking and, most importantly, brought everyone along.

He was someone that everyone respected and wanted to follow. I learned a lot from his leadership style that even today I try to emulate.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

ing to see people that worked for me that I mentored that are now in leadership positions themselves and having big impacts on their companies.

The most challenging part of the job is being able to prioritize all the amazing ideas that we have. We have great ambitions and a robust pipeline of ideas. We would love to get to them all!

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Years with company: Five Current position: Customer Service Supervisor

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Attended Worcester State University, Worcester Center for Crafts and Worcester Art Museum Member, Appalachian Mountain Club and Loyal to Local’s Webster Chapter, a community group dedicated

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 32

AIMEE MORGIDA

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Roche Bros.

Supermarkets

Do what you love and work for a company that loves what you do.

Years with company: Seven,

Hobbies:

and in the supermarket industry since 1988.

Traveling, hiking and exploring.

Current position: Director of Operations for Roche Bros./Sudbury Farms/Brothers Marketplace

I am most proud of developing people and having a positive impact on people’s careers. There are so many people that I have kept in touch with or that have kept in touch with me. It is amaz-

to supporting local businesses and causes.

Enjoys volunteering at local animal shelters and community groups.

Imperial Distributors Inc.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business Administration (major in Marketing, minor in Management),University

I N

APRIL-MAY ROSEBROOKSMOSHER

of Massachusetts/Amherst Member, Northeast Organization of Women.

My first mentors were my parents. My mother taught me the value of creativity and self-expression. My father, a cancer survivor, taught me the importance of staying positive even when things seem hopeless. Professionally, mentors have taught me not to undervalue my own abilities.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

A defining moment happened in 2000, when I was the youngest member and one of only two women on a committee charged with exploring and implementing a software solution that successfully integrated the circulation systems of two major newspapers. The skills I learned during this time have been invaluable to me.

T H E

F O O D

Steering Committee for Unified’s Women’s Resource Group Board Director for the Vons Federal Credit Union Very active in fund-raising to fight cystic fibrosis and ovarian cancer.

Most challenging part of your job?

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be open to the unexpected.

Create opportunities that will challenge your skills and bring you in contact with new people and ideas.

Hobbies: Painting, art quilting, sewing, surface design, kayaking and photographing each of the lighthouses in New England.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am very proud that I was able to take the leap from the natural supermarket industry and hold the director of operations position for a conventional supermarket chain. A defining moment in my career to date has been the opening of Brothers Marketplace in Medfield, Mass., on July 30 (2014). A year and a half of planning with my incredible team, Robin McNamara and Jessica Winship, culminated in the opening of a new smallstore concept store for Roche Bros. with a focus on local relationships within the vendor community and the ability for customers to shop in a neighborhood market.

I N D U S T R Y

I was also deeply honored to receive Imperial’s Bridge Builder Leadership Award in 2011.

The most challenging part of my job is also the most rewarding – bringing people together to find common solutions to complex issues. It can be difficult for individuals or teams with differing priorities to find a compromise, but our customers win when we work together to meet their needs.

As many of us have experienced, I hope, I have had several mentors in my career.

Anthony Harnett, founder of Bread & Circus, taught me so much about focus and detail of retail selling.

AC Gallo (WFM) taught me how to celebrate the joy and passion of loving the product you sell and how to teach and share that love with others.

Jennie Fotovich (Roche Bros.) has taught me how to persevere and be patient while pushing forward towards goals and always is available to listen.

Gary Pfeil (Roche Bros.) has been a wonderful sponsor throughout my time at Roche Bros. by helping and guiding me to be successful within the organization.

My husband, Paul, has been endlessly patient and helped guide me through my career when I have thought I don’t

have the resilience to keep setting the bar as high as it can soar. He listens, and listens and listens and then tells me to GO FOR IT! And my grandfather raised me to believe I could do anything I set my mind towards accomplishing. I hope I have made him proud.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted in your career?

JOANN MURDOCK

Unified Grocers Inc. Years with company: 16½ Current position: Executive Director of Marketing

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BSBA, MBA with an emphasis in Marketing Attended the USC Food Industry Management Executive Program One of the founding members (as well as a former officer and now regional advisor) for the Southern California Chapter of the Network of Executive Women

I’ve been fortunate to have several terrific mentors and sponsors over the years like Bill Davila and Dick Goodspeed from my Vons days — who always made me feel like I could do anything. But Sue Klug has to take the top spot.

Sue has been an amazing mentor to me for at least the last 25 years. I learn so much by just observing her — the professionalism, energy and passion for our industry are evidenced in everything she does. The things that have made the biggest impression on me, however, come from Sue’s heart. She genuinely cares about people; treats everyone with respect; and gives back. I try to embody those same traits every day and they’ve helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What are you most proud of your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I’m most proud of when I shifted from mentee to mentor. I don’t remember when it was — it kind of just “happened,” but my view of things changed forever.

Nothing makes me happier than when a team member or someone I’ve mentored takes on a new challenge, receives special recognition or gets promoted. It’s the best feeling ever.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is dealing with negativity. I’m a firm believer that you can do great work — and have fun doing it.

Negativity stifles creativity and collaboration and limits our ability to be successful.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice for younger executives is to be authentic — be your true self — not what you think others want you to be.

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 33

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

33

1/20/15 11:46 AM

34

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

Board of Directors of the National Cooperative Business Association (2004-13).

allowed me to grow and find my own way. Another is George Watson, who taught me many things but to think strategically was the most valuable.

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I would say just being able to succeed early in my career in an industry that had few women leaders.

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

CINDY NAES FAB Inc.

Years with company: 8½ Current position: Senior Vice

President of Procurement

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Most challenging part of your job?

CHRISTINE NEAL

Developing programs that appeal to a very diverse group of independent distributors. Directing and leading them to work together collectively.

Unified Grocers Years with company: 11½ Current position: Senior Vice President of Finance and Treasurer

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Attended Furman University Have volunteered for the Second Harvest Food Bank Adult Literacy Program & Junior Achievement

Working hard and learn all you can no matter your position.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Reading and spending time with my husband and family.

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

BS, Accountancy and Finance, Miami University in Oxford, Ohio Certified Public Accountant, Ohio (inactive license) Board of Directors of the Greater LA Chapter of the American Red Cross (200313)

Hobbies:

I have had many; one was the late Mac Pearce who believed in me and trusted in me. He

I’ve had a great deal of help throughout my career. It all started with my parents, who encouraged me to get an education and gave me a strong set of values. My husband is a sounding board for many challenges and doesn’t let me take myself too seriously. At Unified Grocers, I’ve been lucky to learn from many great leaders. Former CEO Al Plamann pushed me outside of my comfort zone and current President and CEO Bob Ling has influenced my ability to think strategically. I’m also fortunate that the team I work with every day continually shapes my thinking and learning.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

team and working every day to ensure the success of independent grocers. It’s very satisfying to find meaning in the mission of the organization you work for. I particularly enjoy sharing the Unified story with new employees and people I meet outside the organization.

Most challenging part of your job?

Prioritizing time is the biggest challenge. There are many interesting opportunities out there but we can’t do everything. It’s important to be organized, think things through, prioritize, delegate and — equally importantly — sometimes say “no.”

Advice for ing younger

upcomexecutives:

Work hard, listen, be humble, eagerly seek out new challenges and don’t forget to have fun.

Hobbies:

Spending time with my husband and friends and cooking.

I wouldn’t point to one particular moment. I’m proud to be on the Unified Grocers

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

humor courage

integrity

Cheryl Hinkson

congratulates Josanna Busby and Cheryl Hinkson for being recognized as 2015 I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Josanna Busby determination Food Lion_GR_WOI022015.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 34

humility 1/19/15 8:28 AM

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 35

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

35

1/20/15 11:46 AM

36

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

I have been so fortunate in my career to have been given the gift of amazing mentors, both formal mentors and informal mentors that I have greatly respected and followed their lead. My mother was the most intelligent, business-savvy entrepreneur I have ever known. Her leadership and creativity was astounding, and she has had the most influence on the innovative, passionate leader that I have become.

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

LINDA NORDGREN

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Years with company: 27 Current position: Vice Presi-

I am most proud of innovating and taking risks; for example, creating the supply chain organization at Safeway; having a vision, creating a strategy and surrounding myself with high performing leaders that shared the vision and would move mountains to achieve it.

In addition, making a courageous lateral move from supply chain to merchandising to own a business (P&L), build a high performing team, innovating and turning around businesses once given over to

Safeway Inc.

dent & General Manager Merchandising Home Care and General Merchandise

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Integral Liberal Arts, St. Mary’s Network of Executive Women Northern California Region Committee

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Mass and Club.

2014: Board of Directors, Junior Achievement 2012–Present: Network of Executive Women Mid-Atlantic Division; current roles are regional co-chair of programming, Committee Chair Event Planning 2007: Conn. Food Association Vice Chairperson; 2006, Secretary 1999-2005: Conn. Food Association various committee chair positions

Most challenging part of your job?

All jobs are full of challenges. Great leaders embrace the challenge, form a diverse team of skilled, passionate people and overcome the challenges together. Nothing is more inspiring!

Advice for upcoming younger executives: You spend more awake hours of your life at work than with your family. Choose to work for the company and the leaders that you respect share your values and that light your passion. Yes, women you can have it all, both a successful leadership career and Mom of the Year.

You have the choice and deserve both!

MICHELLE “MICKY” NYE

Farm Fresh Food & Pharmacy, a division of Supervalu Years with company: 14 months; 16 years with Supervalu

Hobbies:

Current position: President Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

My husband and two boys are my life. They are my focus, inspiration and joy!

Cornell University Food Executive Program BS, Marketing, University of Phoenix MBA, University of Phoenix

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

ROBIN GOUGHO’BRIEN Checkers and Rally Restaurants

Years with company: 10 Current position: Sr. Director

of Operations Services

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: MS, Strategic Management Project Management Certified

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

A variety of mentors stand out for me. Ron DePentu,

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 36

teacher, instilled excellence and showed that praise, welldeserved and sparing, has impact. My grandmother was mom, supporter, defender and friend who embodied living life in the moment, overcoming adversity, embracing conflict and challenges with humor. I actively live to honor her. Adam Noyes stretches my technical and leadership skills, creates opportunities and gives his time and wisdom freely, both personally and professionally. Terri Snyder and Lori Malcolm offer unique perspectives and provide insight professionally and culturally.

Rick Silva dispenses feedback and mentors me on how I need to direct my focus, energies and humor.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The legacies of people that I have developed during my career are my greatest achievements. That exponential continuum of me giving, others receiving and them giving, is most powerful to me.

My recent defining moment

T H E

F O O D

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice for upcoming younger executives is to spend time knowing who you are, where you want to be in life and create a “business plan” for you. This defines how you want to live, act, and become and that will permeate every facet of what you do. That empowers you and others will be drawn to you.

Early in my career (1980s), senior leaders at Shaw’s Dave Jenkins, Scott Ramsey and Kent Gilbert all pushed me and supported me in various roles not held by women previously. Monica Abrams at Supervalu was really a major sponsor for me, putting me in front of people that she felt would benefit from having me on their team. Sue Klug at Albertsons pushed me to stretch further as a leader and to do more than I knew I was capable of. Her motto was “Go big or go home,” and I have adopted the same philosophy!

I’ve been very fortunate to work on a number of initiatives, earning recognition for many accomplishments, but at this time, I still think my biggest achievement is yet to come! I’m excited about my current role and fully focused on beating the challenges we face as a small regional player competing in an area of large national companies! Every day I look to do more than yesterday and I’m always looking for ways to improve!

The courage to move away from family/friends and leave an organization where I was well respected and progressing at a rapid pace to take on greater responsibilities in another corporation. I haven’t looked back since. Several companies later, I am still learning and growing, appreciative of the new experiences.

Most challenging part of your job: Keeping the team motivated when times are tough and we’re asking folks to do more with less.

I N D U S T R Y

occurred at the Women’s Foodservice Forum. It was a unique, nourishing time to connect with other senior leaders, re-energize and see opportunities beyond our company, beyond me, that I could absolutely impact.

More than that, I walked away with a deep obligation to give back what has been given to me.

The most challenging part of my job is balance! I love what I do and guarding the balance of my roles is a constant job.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

SUZANNE HASBROUCK OLSON Giant Eagle Inc.

Years with company: 12 Current position: Director of

Customer Service

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BSBA, Management, University of Arizona MA, Psychology, Chatham University Advisory Board, Chatham University Business and Entrepreneurship Department

I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors throughout my career, however, my first mentors were my parents.

My dad was an entrepreneur and taught me that you can think outside the normal way of doing business. My mom, also an entrepreneur, helped me to understand that you should spend time doing what you love. Currently, my husband David helps me maintain perspective and keep focused on the critical path. Professionally, Dave Redick assists me in understanding how to navigate uncertain situations and be an influential leader.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Overall, I am very proud of our customer service team and their daily efforts to lead the transformation in becoming more customer focused at retail. Recently, we did a campaign that celebrated the kindness and empathy of our team members. It was a very

special project, as it was cascaded through the entire organization and highlighted our core values. The purpose was to remind us all to maintain perspective and to be kind when people seem difficult or distracted. Having team members tell us how much the campaign made them think about others and the impact is made on them was very rewarding.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging aspect of my job is having the patience for change to happen.

Culture change does not happen overnight. It takes time and the effort of many people understanding and having the desire to change to behave in new ways. When I do see it happening and see our measurements improve, I know we are doing the right things.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Sometimes your career will take you places that you didn’t intend.

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

37

Susan Axelrod,

Congratulations for this well-deserved award and continued success going forward… ~Your Friends at Trio Packaging Corp. and AMI Specialty Films

Trio Packaging Corp. ™

Since 1975

TrioPackaging_02_GR_WOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 37

1/13/15 9:02 AM

1/20/15 11:46 AM

38

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION tive Women (NEW) FMI Advertising & Marketing Executives Committee, 2004-10

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

JUDI McGRATH PALMER The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, New England Division

Years with company: 39 Current position: Director

of Marketing and External Communication

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Providence College MBA, Suffolk University Board Member, The Greater Boston Food Bank Member, Network of Execu-

I have been lucky enough to have several mentors. Early in my career, Barry Berman took me under his wing and assigned me to projects I never thought I could accomplish. His confidence in me built my own level of confidence as he encouraged me to “learn fast” but to also “think outside the lines” and take risks. Sal Saccoccio taught me the art of negotiation and helped hone my skills as a manager and business leader. He was a role model for respect and integrity.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

at times exhausting, but not mutually exclusive.

Board Member, Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center

Most challenging part of your job?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

The most challenging and interesting part of my job is staying on top of changing priorities.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice to younger executives is to find a career for which you have passion.

Nothing is accomplished in life without passion!

Spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy reading, a good political discussion, photography and my passion, football.

Years with company: Two Current position: Vice Presi-

dent of U.S. Franchise Development

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Spanish, and BS, Mathematics, Spelman College; MBA Board of Directors, Children’s Museum of Winston Salem, N.C.; Regional Connect Volunteer, Women’s Foodservice Forum; Co-

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 38

Years with company: 20 Current position: Director of

Communications & Media Relations

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

I am proud of being a positive example to my daughter by showing her that being devoted and “there for her” while working hard to be a successful business woman are not mutually exclusive…

Chair Membership Orientation, Reynolda Rotary International; Volunteer, Big Sister – Big Brothers Big Sisters Services Inc.; 2014 Leadership Winston Salem Graduate; 2014 Co-Chair, United Way Campaign – Krispy Kreme; International Franchise Association Member & Certified Franchise Executive (CFE).

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corp.

Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA)

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

BS, Journalism, West Virginia University Board Member, Mid-Atlantic Food Trades Organization

I N

PATRICIA PERRY

ELIZABETH PERONI

Hobbies:

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

At an early age, my parents taught me the importance of a strong work ethic, the value of perseverance and to follow my dreams without fear and regret. I have been blessed to have several mentors over the years. I have worked with several exceptional professionals who have helped to guide and shape me both professionally and personally through tough and rewarding times throughout my life and career. I always make a conscious effort to learn something from everyone that I encounter.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

At Krispy Kreme I have been

T H E

blessed with an opportunity to play a major role in the national growth and development of an iconic brand.

I am proud of the new store growth that has occurred in a short period of time. Our expansion is attributed to several talented individuals working together collaboratively to ensure that growth will be sustained for years to come. I was fortunate to establish, own and operate a successful restaurant in my early twenties. I was proud that I was able to create a vision and see it to fruition.

Opening the restaurant allowed me to create jobs while working in an industry that I loved.

Most challenging part of your job?

Finding time to have a balanced life can be challenging.

My faith, family, profession and community are all extremely important aspects of my life. I have learned that there is no magic formula.

You have to be intentional about prioritizing and understand that a perfect balance may never be achieved.

F O O D

My first mentor was my dad, who emphasized the importance of hard work to achieve your goals. PFMA executives Randy St. John and David McCorkle have been important mentors.

Their advice was essential early on when I had to learn everything about the food industry. Their insight on industry issues and knowledge of Pennsylvania’s government and regulatory agencies has been invaluable through the years.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am very proud that I have the opportunity to share the achievements of our members. Through the years, I’ve been able to visit many of our members’ stores and write articles about their achievements, innovations and their strong histories in the food industry. These companies provide great support to their communities and it’s wonderful to be able to tell their sto-

ries.

With the assistance of the PFMA staff, we’ve expanded the association’s communications efforts in hopes of reaching more retailers and emphasizing the important role of the association in protecting food retailers’ interests in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is to ensure that our retail members get the information they need to operate efficiently. They are very busy overseeing their stores, so it’s important that PFMA communicates information on legislative and regulatory issues in many different formats, so that if they miss one communication, they eventually get it in another.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Bring your best attitude to work every day. Always set a good example for your coworkers and when things don’t go as planned, pick yourself up and strive to achieve more.

I N D U S T R Y

retailer program United for Hope; Network of Executive Women, National and SoCal leadership; Mentiumm, a mentoring organization supporting women.

Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

SUBRIANA McFADDEN PIERCE

Navigator Sales and Marketing Years with company: Two Current position: Co-Managing Partner

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Economics, Spelman College MBA, Marketing, University of Chicago Board Member, Food Industries Circle, City of Hope; Co-Chair for SoCal

Mentors are critical in anyone’s career. My best mentors have been the informal relationships that I established both inside my companies and outside. The perspectives they gave were invaluable to my career growth. I had to listen and be coachable.

I also have to say that the women in my personal life have been tremendous mentors. My mother, mother-inlaw, grandmothers, aunts, etc., taught me the foundations and basics that proved to make me the person I am.

Whenever I have the chance to reach back and pull up, I always will.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

on faith and helping my husband/partner to launch this company is my most proud career achievement.

Knowing that I’m making a difference in the lives of small business owners or an impact on a new brand or new brand opportunity is a satisfying achievement! It’s about living my passion every day, and that is a series of defining moments.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging is the day-to-day rigor of the role.

Because we play a role in consulting, representation, marketing support, etc., you never know what the day holds in store. It’s exhilarating but can be challenging.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Live your passion! Don’t take a role for title or for money.

Those things are temporary.

Grow your career through the sheer passion of loving what you do every day!

Of all the great accomplishments both personally and professionally, stepping out

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 39

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

39

1/20/15 11:46 AM

40

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

I have had several mentors throughout my career who have taught me to have patience; focus my energy to be more productive; make the best use of my time; and to have a solution to a problem before you present it.

ounger

I am proud of my ability to maintain my integrity. It defines who I am and gains me respect from peers, colleagues and acquaintances.

Most of all, I am proud that I can balance my career with my family values and stay active in my kids’ lives. I took a risk last year by leaving 24 years at Acosta Sales & Marketing and stepping into a new company and a new role that challenges me to step outside of my comfort zone in order to further my career.

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

JILL POPE

Imperial Distributors Inc. Years with company: One.

Total of 25 in the industry including 24 years at Acosta Sales & Marketing.

Current position:

Manager

Account

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: I attended multiple training seminars and completed online courses to further my education and skill sets.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Keep your integrity intact.

Your reputation of who you are and how you perform will follow you. Never burn your bridges; maintain good rapport with current and past employers; and know that challenges will build character and define who you are.

People Making Good PR Years with company: Eight Current position: Partner Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Communication Public Relations Society of America RunVermont and YMCA

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have been lucky enough to work alongside and for some

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 40

Who are your mentors and how they have assisted you in your career?

JENNIFER PURCELL

Hobbies: I enjoy going to antique shops, flea markets, decorating my home for each season, and entertaining friends and family. Most of all, I love to give my husband “honey-dolists” and cheer on my two sons.

The Culinary Institute of America Years with company: 11 Current position: Associate

Dean of Restaurant and Service Hospitality Education

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: AOS and BPS, Culinary Arts Management, The Culinary Institute of America MS, Hotel, Restaurant and Travel Administration, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Most challenging part of your job?

A large challenge for me is being able to balance my customers’ needs, my career and my home life. I sacrifice

I N

NICOLE JUNAS RAVLIN

ABD-EdD, Human and Organizational Learning (in progress), The George Washington University Women’s Foodservice Forum; Women Chefs and Restaurateurs; Court of Master Sommeliers; Certified Hospitality Educator

my time to ensure that I am meeting the needs of others and sometime forget to meet my own needs.

pretty talented people. John Pepper, co-founder and former chief executive officer of Boloco, is someone that I admire and have learned a lot from. Through our work together he challenged me to think differently about the way we communicate, how to do business in an “off-center” way and about the best way to work with a client – with no bureaucracy. Now that he has left his post at Boloco, I often find myself wondering, “What would Pepper think of how this is written?” and “Is this off-center enough?”

That has led me to some of my best writing and scoring some of the largest placements of my food PR career.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I’m most proud of having successfully created an agency that clients truly see as an indispensable resource, a part of their team, a contributor to their success — in a world where so many PR firms are seen as vendors and contractors.

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Though I’ve not had official mentors, I have always (and still do) actively seek out role models in various areas of interest of development. This might range from someone I work with and am able to access easily to have one-on-one time with, to someone I research online in order to read and observe any video clips, interviews and work they might have done. Overall, when seeking professional mentorship and advice I typically seek the perspectives of several people versus that of one mentor per se.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements”? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

They have all been professionally relevant, challenging and personally meaningful to what, where and who I am today, though I never had an intended roadmap as to just where and what I wanted to be.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my current positon is the limited time I have with students. Having been a faculty member prior to my current role, I am very familiar with just how energizing it is to facilitate learning in an environment of eager minds readying to launch out into the food service industry.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: As cliché as it may sound, standing true to what one believes is very important in cultivating and maintaining one’s integrity and character. These are both incredibly important to your personal and professional growth and well-being so seek the higher ground in all you do.

I’m most proud of the broad range of experiences I’ve been afforded in my career.

job?

At PMG I work alongside the best food PR folks in the business, generating amazing hits for our clients — and perhaps the most challenging part of the job for me is looking out over the horizon, and successfully identifying where food is going, where it is trending, and where it will be six months, a year, two years from now, so that we can be sure that our clients remain ahead of their competition when it comes to earned media.

Advice for upcoming younger executives?

Focus on doing good work.

Find work in a field that you are passionate about – it makes working that much more fun.

Hobbies:

“Take on additional

projects and opportunities and don’t wait

for them to come to you... go out and seek them.”

Skiing, cooking, raising two sons and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible!

VICTORIA THOMSON, BIMBO BAKERIES USA

Most challenging part of your

1/20/15 11:39 AM

ACQ15-002_HalfPageAd_GriffinReport_WomenOfInfluence.pdf 1 1/6/2015 2:52:08 PM ACQ15-002_HalfPageAd_GriffinReport_WomenOfInfluence.pdf 1 1/6/2015 2:52:08 PM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

41

C

M

Y

C CM

C M MY

M Y CY

Y CM CM MY

CMY

K

MY CY CY CMY CMY K K

Every day, exceptional women work tirelessly to help putexceptional food on thewomen table. work tirelessly Every day, Every day, exceptional women work tirelessly to to help help put put food food on on the the table. table.

Thank you to our very own Carol Tienken and Cheryl Schondek for your leadership and commitment to End Hunger Here, and congratulations to all of the Women of Influence in the Food Industry.

Thank you to our very own Carol Tienken and Cheryl Schondek for your leadership and Thank you 1totoour very own Carol and Cheryl Schondek forWomen your leadership and commitment End Hunger Here,Tienken and congratulations to all of the of Influence GBFB_GR_WOI022015.indd commitment to End Hunger Here, and congratulations to all of the Women of Influence in the Food Industry. in the Food Industry.

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 41

1/19/15 4:19 PM

1/20/15 11:46 AM

42

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION Trustee, National Joint Labor Management Committee

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

The most significant mentor of my career was Steve Burd, our previous CEO. He taught me and trusted me to take on more responsibility. Without his help and guidance I would have never achieved such career success.

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

LARREE RENDA Safeway Inc.

Years with company: 40 Current position: Executive Vice President & Chair of the Safeway Foundation

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Past Member, Board of Directors for HSBC Finance Corp. and for HSBC North America Holdings Inc., serving on the Audit and Risk Committees (2001-14) Board of Directors, Casey’s General Stores Inc. Board of Directors, Casa Ley, Safeway’s joint venture in Mexico Board of Regents for the University of Portland

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Leading teams and watching them succeed against a challenging business objective.

Mentoring people at different levels of the organization and seeing them be successful.

These are both my proudest career achievements and my defining moments.

I will always remember and be thankful for being able to play an important role in helping others to succeed.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Years with company: Eight Current position: Director of

Northeast Sales

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Attended SUNY Broome College – Business Management. Completed numerous training and development programs focusing on professional and personal growth.

KeHE Distributors

Years with company: 36 Current position: Director of

Knowledge is power. Know your business and industry inside and out to determine where you can make the biggest impact. That means paying close attention to customers and your frontline teams. They are your core advisors and your boots on the ground.

Vendor Management

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: The 36 years I’ve invested in the grocery business is my degree. Over the years, I’ve been certified in various courses including Dale Carnegie, as well as several marketing, financial and category management courses.

Through KeHE Cares, there are several opportunities to serve. I’ve enjoyed serv-

The most challenging part is what I love most about my job. The eclectic nature and diversity of my responsibilities requires me to master

My greatest mentor is my mother. She has always supported her children 100 percent and encouraged us to pursue new opportunities fearlessly. Throughout my career in the food industry, I have been fortunate to be guided by talented and generous mentors. My current boss, Bob Squires (VPRetail Sales & Marketing) continues to challenge me to think outside of the box and my comfort zone, driving me to develop innovative approaches to new business ideas. Early in my career John Yannuzzi (River Valley Foods) introduced me to the food industry and provided sound guidance as I transitioned to new roles and responsibilities.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I don’t have a specific defining moment. Every day, I look back and assess if I successfully completed what I set out to achieve. At the end of the day, if my company is

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 42

MARIA REYES

Most challenging part of your job?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Friendly’s Ice Cream LLC

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

I N

ROBIN ROOT

ing time with The Morning Star Mission and Feed My Starving Children.

and stay current on a long list of core functions. I have ultimate responsibility for HR, IT, retail strategy, real estate, labor relations, public affairs, communications, government relations, health initiatives, corporate social responsibility, sustainability, philanthropy and industrial engineering. These are very different and dynamic functions with ever-changing rules of engagement. I have to constantly monitor all of the issues and implement changes that impact the entire company.

T H E

F O O D

My mother has been my most influential mentor and life advisor. From her I learned humility, work ethic, assertiveness and many other things that I’ve practiced throughout my career. I’ve been blessed to have several other business and professional mentors.

Their willingness to provide direct, constructive feedback and advice has been critical in helping me to develop as a professional.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

There are several proud moments in my career; being nominated for this honor is one. Earlier this year, I was chosen and was a proud presenter at the New York International Olive Oil Competition; I was the keynote speaker at the Annual Meeting for the California Olive Oil Council. Over the years I have been able to adapt and embrace change both

within the industry and my company – this also makes me proud. A career-defining moment came many years ago when I left the food industry because I felt it was no longer for me. After two short weeks, I realized that it was a mistake. I went back to the company I was working for and decided to dedicate my career to the food industry – the rest is history.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my career has been maintaining a good work/life balance, as well as managing through the many changing aspects of daily job priorities. The key is to develop and practice good time-management skills.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be passionate, assertive and respectful. Be honest with yourself and others. Live up to your commitments – this builds trust. Practice listening more and talking less – you’ll be amazed at what you’ll learn. Above all, be humble.

I N D U S T R Y

successful, I’m proud of my contribution to the team.

Most challenging part of your job?

In today’s business environment, one of the most challenging aspects is to continue to anticipate changes in our customers’ needs and then quickly respond to those changes.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Work hard and be true to your word. And don’t be afraid to take a risk.

Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and sitting by the pool.

“You can be anything

you want to be and you will, by working to be

the best at whatever job you have and position you are in.”

JUDITH A. SPIRES,

AG SUPERMARKET HOLDINGS

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast of buying and it was upwards from there. My most important mentor in my life was my mom. She instilled in me the values that I still hold dear today. She too, started at the bottom and worked her way up through the ranks in a male-dominated business.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

LISA SCHAFFER

Imperial Distributors Years with company: Nine

months

Current position: Sales Counselor, Kings Supermarkets

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Marketing, Montclair State University 2006 Grocery Manufacturers Woman Executive of the Year

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have had the fortune of having many mentors in each stage of my career. My very first mentor Joel Bercy taught me the fundamentals

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 43

I am proud of where I am in my career today and the work and dedication it took to get here. I have worked for supermarkets both on the corporate and retail side, wholesale distributors and retail drug stores in a management capacity. This gives me a unique perspective on running my business. I am also most proud of the relationships that I have built in all of my years in the industry. A defining moment in my career to date is the impact in sales growth that I have been a part of since I started with Imperial Distributors only nine months ago. We have remodeled seven stores with an enhanced shopping experience business model in the Health and Beauty Care Department, which has generated positive sales growth in these stores

February 2015 versus the same time frame a year ago.

in Supply Chain Management from MIT Executive Education Course in Produce Category Management from Cornell Network of Executive Women – Leadership Team for New England Region New England Produce Council Board member during produce tenure St Vincent de Paul SocietyBoard Member

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is that no day is ever the same. I am the liaison between the account that I manage and my company.

On any given day, I may be faced with anything from product to transportation issues. I must always be prepared and ready to meet the needs of both my company and my customer.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice would be to always conduct yourself with integrity, dignity and honor.

Learn as much as you can from co-workers and senior managers. You may encounter things that may not make much sense to you at the time but you may refer back to in your future.

Hobbies: I adore dogs. I love to cook and entertain my friends with my culinary creations. I also enjoy listening to music and the beach.

CHERYL SCHONDEK

The Greater Boston Food Bank Years with company: 1½ Current position: Vice President of Food Acquisition and Supply Chain

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont Graduate degree from Bridgewater State University Executive Education Course

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have had numerous mentors throughout my career. Early on, folks such as Paul Kennedy, Peter Lynch and Roe Cefalo gave me the opportunity to learn the facets of the retail environment. Mid-point in my career Margaret McEwen and Pam Knous were role models for continued professional development. Recently, P. Shane Sampson revitalized my passion for customer service. The universal theme from their advice was “surround yourself with good people and you will be successful.” I have used that advice for my entire career. Another significant influence in my life was my grandmother, Angelina Mary Annunziato.

She inspired the work ethic,

43

integrity, talkative personality and strong will that have shaped my success. I also owe a great deal of gratitude to my parents, George and Elaine (Nonnie), who have always been there throughout my career; and especially my husband, (Saint) Peter and my two beautiful daughters Angela and Christine, who are my biggest supporters!

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I have had many professional accomplishments throughout my career. For example, first in the industry for “tencent sales” at Star Market; establishing the first Kosher bakery at Shaw’s; received National Private Label and tier one launch awards; and at GBFB, achieving a goal of acquiring an excess of 50 million pounds of food years ahead of schedule. A personal accomplishment is shaking hands with Pope Benedict and Pope Francis. My most proud accomplishment is raising two wonderful children.

1/20/15 11:39 AM

44

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

your career?

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Many of my former bosses have assisted me in my career with solid coaching and good counsel. I appreciate when a peer, direct report or colleague inspires me to think differently – it is always important to listen and embrace change. This is pivotal to success in today’s business environment.

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

LAUREEN SCHROEDER

Daymon Worldwide Years with company: Five Current position: Director &

Team Lead of Health, Beauty & Baby

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Bachelor of Commerce Honors Degree, University of Manitoba, Canada Cosmetic Executive Women, WISE Spin Odyssey Annual Fundraiser for Cancer

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I come from a family of entrepreneurs and although I have spent almost my entire career in a corporate environment, it is the entrepreneurial achievements that I am most proud of. Building a brand, creating an innovative marketing program, launching a breakthrough ad campaign, gaining a retailer partner…. all have been fine moments in my career. I love the collaboration approach with strong teammates – this makes work fun! Nothing gets me more excited than working with other respected experts to develop and create something unique in the

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

marketplace. These are the stories that I will be telling my grandchildren someday.

I have not had one defining moment but a series of moments that I look back on where I had to make a decision about my career path.

Some of those moments chose me and some, I selfcreated.

Most challenging part of your job?

I have more ideas and opportunities than I have time to achieve them all. It is key in this role to do the right things first and prioritize.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

PAT SHEWCHUK Big Y Foods Inc.

Years with company: 31 Current position: Director of

Leadership Development & Engagement Strategies

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Associate’s, Early Childhood Education, HCC Several professional certifications Past/present activities: Community Enterprise Business Advisory, Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, Mass., Food Associ-

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 44

Talking, listening and watching my mom throughout the years greatly guided me in my development. She taught me the importance of keeping commitments and being responsible, while at the same time to care for others and be fair and open-minded. Next would be my sister, who has taught me that through adversity comes a new strength.

Everything is for a reason. At Big Y, there have been many strong women that I have had a lively conversation with or shared a quiet moment.

Although they may not be aware, each has contributed to my growth in some way.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

While I’ve been afforded many opportunities working at Big Y, the defining

The Organic Center

Years with company: Two Current position: Director of

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Stay focused and “earn the right” for your next promotion.

Science Programs

Hobbies:

Ph.D., Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley BS, Plant Sciences, University of California, Santa Cruz BA, Environmental Studies, University of California, Santa Cruz

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Time with family and friends, my dog, Maverick, world travel, sailing, gardening, Nordic skiing, fashion/ pop culture, theater and the arts, and interior design.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I N

ation HR Council, Society for Human Resources Association and Secretary of the Human Resources Association of Western New England.

JESSICA SHADE

T H E

moment was when I transitioned from working in the stores to the Employee Services department in our Support Center. Through various roles, I have been able to develop and implement programs, trainings or initiatives to help support, develop or recognize our employees, which leads to a couple of career achievements that come to mind. The first being the oversight, planning and engaging our employees in celebrating Big Y’s 75th anniversary in 2011, and a more recent achievement in 2014 was taking part in the communication rollout of our new vision statement. Both of these projects exemplified a time of collaboration and community across the organization, which was both rewarding and gratifying.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging is educating everyone about the importance of caring for and engaging your team of employees in supporting the company’s mission, vision and values.

F O O D

I have had several mentors during my academic and professional career. I have learned a lot from my current supervisory, Laura Batcha, chief executive officer of the Organic Trade Association, about strategic goal-setting and strategy development.

My scientific knowledge is based on the expertise and encouragement of my Ph.D. advisor, Ellen Simms. Additionally, Suzanne Schettler mentored me early in my career as my supervisor at Greening Associates, a restoration company based out of California.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am proud of the growth of The Organic Center under my management. In the last two years we have taken on seven new scientific projects, convened a Science Advisory Board with over 30 members, launched a new website which caused our web traffic to increase by over 350 percent, had a 469 percent increase in Facebook likes, conducted a crowdfunding

campaign that reached 137 percent of its goal, and have been featured in a wide variety of media outlets.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is collaborating with a diversity of stakeholders from different walks of life, with different viewpoints and priorities to create a common vision. I work with researchers, industry members, consumers, funders and a variety of other individuals who all have disparate priorities and ideas about scientific research in sustainable and organic agriculture. Developing a unified set of goals can be challenging, but it is a fun process and the results are always extremely rewarding!

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Keep a positive attitude and learn to be flexible as new, unexpected issues arise.

Hobbies: Painting, sewing, hiking, pottery and reading.

I N D U S T R Y

“Be confident in yourself. When

opportunities arise for you to step up and out of your comfort zone, go ahead and do it. Let others know you want

new challenges and opportunities to grow.”

SUSAN DURFEE, TOPS MARKETS, LLC

1/20/15 11:39 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast force when I have needed extra direction.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

KAREN SHINNEY Perkins/GFS

Years with company: 31 Current position: Customer Development Specialist

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Education, ASU

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Boyd Johnson. Boyd and I have worked together for many years. He has always had the unique ability to offer the right advice and guidance at the right time. He has always been the stabilizing

February 2015 an endless supply of solutions available from your coworkers.

Hobbies: Gardening, reading.

traveling

and

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

SHARON SKEFFINGTON

Most challenging part of your job?

Associated Grocers of New England

The most challenging thing is attending to all of the day-today details of this job while continuing to maintain and grow my business. There are a lot of moving parts and it is sometimes difficult to make sure nothing is missed.

Years with company: 15 Current position: Store De-

sign & Equipment Coordinator

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

BA, Communications, with minor in Marketing Management, Notre Dame College Active member of AGNE’s Community Connection Committee, an in-house

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 45

foundation that helps support local charities Capitol Region Food Bank’s Holiday Food Program Member, AMC and NH 4000 Footers Club.

I am most proud of the many loyal and long-term customers that I have developed.

It has been very rewarding to take a customer from ordering just a few items to becoming a key supplier. I am also proud of becoming a two-time Sales Person of the Year for Perkins.

Learn as much as you can from your peers. I have always tried to find out different approaches and tools used by my colleagues. It has always been helpful to me to tap into this valuable resource. Use this! There is

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

There are two co-workers who have mentored me throughout my career at AGNE and have been instrumental in my success. Cindy Caldwell, VP of finance, continually challenges me to work outside my comfort zone and to realize I have an important voice within the organization. Mike Violette, SVP of sales and retail development, has been a champion in my professional development. His unwavering support has helped me realize my own potential and provided me with strategies to achieve my career goals and objectives. Both Cindy and Mike lead by example, building relationships through trust, honesty and respect. I continually strive to emulate their integrity in my own professional relationships.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

45

I’m most proud of my promotion to store designer.

My background is in advertising and graphic arts. Designing retail floor layouts for AGNE’s store expansions or remodels has been a perfect fit for me. I feel very fortunate to be working at something I truly love and feel passionate about.

Most challenging part of your job?

Coordinating project variables, resolving problems and seeing it all come together in the end gives me a great sense of accomplishment. But the part of my job I find most challenging as well as rewarding is taking a customer’s design ideas and equipment requirements and turning them into solutions that will ultimately increase their sales and maximize their profits.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Don’t take yourself too seriously. No one is perfect, everyone makes mistakes.

The important thing is to not dwell on them. Learn the lesson it affords you and move on. Have a good attitude, be positive.

1/20/15 11:40 AM

46

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ecutive Coach Volunteer for C&S Executive Coach, C&S Mentorship Program, Princeton University Alumni School Committee

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

KELLY SOSA C&S Wholesale Grocers

Years with company: Seven Current position: Vice Presi-

dent of Customer Development

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Princeton University, History and African-American Studies Network of Executive Women New England Chapter, Professional Association for Customer Engagement (PACE) former Board Member NY Metro Area, Net Promoter Certified Associate, Beampines Certified Ex-

Jim Higgins, executive vice president-World Service, American Express: Hope is not a strategy. Even large, global companies can rally around common goals with the appropriate plan and commitment to excellence. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.

Bob Toomey, SVP-customer initiatives, C&S Wholesale Grocers: Never let analytics cloud common sense. Be amazed but never surprised.

Christine Owens, SVPcommunication and brand management, United Parcel Service (retired): “There is no cavalry coming to save the day....outcome is up to you.

Manage your life like you manage your career. Don’t wait to do the job until you get the job.”

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The ability to leverage my experience deploying best practices in customer care and relationship management at a top global brand at C&S to expand and deepen relationships with our customers.

MELISSA STRAIT

Arby’s Restaurant Group Years with company: 30 Current position: Chief People Officer

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Psychology, Hope College Member, SHRM

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have had many mentors in my career. The first is Steve

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 46

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

The competitive landscape in our industry is changing rapidly. One of the largest challenges we face is how we partner with our customers to provide best-in-class supply chain solutions. This requires us to collaboratively focus on strategic planning and be relentless in evaluating our performance.

JUDITH SPIRES AG Supermarket Holdings

Years with company: Five Current position: CEO Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

BA, MBA, LaSalle University, Philadelphia, Pa. Cornell University Food Executive Program, Ithaca, N.Y. Chairperson for the Academy of Food Marketing at St. Joseph’s University and the New Jersey Food Council Board member, Food Mar-

Be interested in everything; figuring out what you don’t want to do is as important as figuring out what you do want to do. Spend time building your personal brand, define what you’d like to be known for and make it a reality.

I N

Tripp. He was the owner of the first Arby’s restaurant that I worked at. He involved me in the business side of the restaurant and helped me to see that there was a real career for me in this industry.

He involved me in opening additional restaurants and eventually made me a partner with him in our six restaurants. Another is Russ Umphenour. He was the chief executive officer of RTM Restaurant Group, which was the largest franchisee of Arby’s. He encouraged me to set goals and develop beyond the restaurants. He gave me my first role in training and then allowed me additional exposure to leadership development and HR. He had high expectations for me and always challenged me to stretch and learn. I would not be where I am today without the influence of these two men.

keting Institute (FMI) and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey Trustee, LaSalle University Member of the Comcast and NBC Universal Joint Diversity Council.

T H E

operations and then moved to a training role in the support center, eventually taking on leadership development and HR as well. This background in operations has helped me to be more effective as I have grown, and has allowed me to contribute in a meaningful way as an executive of the brand.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Never stop learning, remain flexible in your thinking and always believe in yourself.

Hobbies:

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

I have been fortunate to have many mentors in my career, beginning with my store manager when I was a part-time clerk at the Westmont Super Saver. He was passionate about taking care of our customers and made the business fun and exciting. He always shared new ideas to engage the customers and had a personal drive to empower his team. Even as a part-timer, he made me feel that my work was invaluable. How lucky I was to have his passion as the impetus behind my same passion.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Opportunity,” where anyone can pursue the American Dream, and it makes me so proud to be an example of that. When I was in college and told my dad I wanted to be a store manager and not a teacher, his instantaneous response was, “Judy, you can be whatever you want to be.” I want to pay my father’s support forward and be that person for all the next generations of leaders.

Most challenging part of your job:?

There are just not enough hours in the day! There is always so much more that we can dream, envision, design, lead and complement. When you work with so many committed and talented people, the days go so fast, and no two days are ever alike.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: “You can be anything you want to be,” and you will, by working to be the best at whatever job you have and position you are in.

I am most proud of being able to give so many talented people I have worked with the opportunity to advance and pursue the successes that they deserve. Our industry is still the “Land of

“Concentrate on your strengths,

appreciate the value of teamwork,

work for the betterment of the organi-

Photography.

zation as a whole... and your contribution and successes will be recognized.”

SUSAN AXELROD,

LOVE AND QUICHES GOURMET

I am proud of the fact that I began as a cashier at Arby’s.

I moved through the ranks in

1/20/15 11:40 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

how have they assisted you in your career?

SHIRL STROEING

Weis Markets Inc. Years with company: 2½ Current position: Vice Presi-

dent, Chief Information Officer

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Quantitative Methods and Information Systems, St. Cloud State University, Minnesota MBA, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn.

Member, Food Marketing Institute Technology Leadership Council, the National Association of Professional Women and the Network of Executive Women.

Who are your mentors and

My parents were my first, and most important, role models and mentors. They taught me the value of hard work and personal integrity.

From a career standpoint, I have been fortunate to have a number of mentors who served as guides, counselors and friends during my journey. An early mentor was my college statistics professor, who was instrumental in directing me to the science of information technology. She not only introduced me to a field of work I hadn’t previously considered, she pushed me beyond my perceived capabilities and comfort levels.

That early experience of success from being thrust into a world of unknowns gave me the confidence to continually seize new opportunities.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am proud to be in a position that can influence decisions that impact a company’s growth and success. A defining moment for me was the realization that I not only possess the competencies for both technology and leadership, but also enjoy the com-

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION Fresh and the Produce Marketing Association for Women Marketing and Branding Committee for Fyffes

bination.

Most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is advancing business capabilities with the right technology in a time of relentless, disruptive change, combined with keeping company information assets secure with the explosion of today’s digital age.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Years with company: 13 Current position: Marketing

I learned a lot from my father. As president and chief executive officer of a company in France, he taught me good ethics and the values of transparency, hard work, dedication and passion that have shaped my career choices.

He taught me to be my own person. His mentorship influenced my decision to work at Turbana, a company whose values align with my own.

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

MARION TABARD

My advice to young executives is to work hard and never stay within your comfort zone; be prepared to seize new opportunities and challenges. Follow your passion and surround yourself with positive people whom you admire/respect.

Finally, pay it forward by mentoring others. I believe nothing can match the gratification you’ll feel when you help a young person discover their strengths and achieve their potential.

Turbana Corporation Director

Master’s, Business Management, with a double specialization in finance and marketing from E.S.SC.A., a business school of management in Angers, France.

Member, Health & Nutrition Council at United

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

I am most proud of knowing that through my work, I contribute in a way that positively impacts many people. For example, in Colombia, Turbana works alongside our social foundation, Fundauniban, to develop the farming communities in the banana and plantain growing regions. Turbana is also is the first produce

47

company to initiate a movement in North America, Growing Smiles, Sharing Goodness. The movement seeks to inspire individuals to eat smart, be active and get involved in their communities. All the different ways Turbana works to grow smiles and share goodness throughout its global communities I consider defining moments in my career. I love what I do.

Most challenging part of your job?

Working to develop the most impactful solutions we can provide to a community is often a challenge. As a company, we work with our retail partners to benefit communities. We always want to ensure the initiatives we invest in will have the greatest impact, provide something the community needs and will have a lasting positive effect. It is a challenge to decide what it is we will do next but it is a challenge I am thankful for on a daily basis.

Congratulates ROBIN ROOT

Friendlys_WOI GR022015.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 47

1/16/15 3:08 PM

1/20/15 11:40 AM

48

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

PATTI TAVELLI Giant Eagle

Years with company: Seven Current position:

Deli Category Manager

Education degrees and professional/volunteer organizations: MS, Marketing, Emphasis: Direct & Interactive, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa. BA, Integrated Marketing Communication Women’s Business Resource Group, Giant Eagle Inc., CoLead, Marketing & Communications Committee

Progressive Grocer Top Women in Grocer, Winner, Rising Star 2014 Giant Eagle Young Professional Rising Star Annual Award Leadership Development Initiative: Graduate of program for high-potential emerging leaders at work and in the community Women’s Leadership Development Program Duquesne University, Palumbo/Donahue School of Business: One of two Giant Eagle Team members selected to attend three-day Emerging Women Leaders Regional Conference by SVP of Marketing & Own Brands at Giant Eagle United Way Women’s Leadership Council KidsVoice Annual 5K Race Volunteer Active mentorship to emerging high-potential female professionals

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

for the Network of Executive Women Board Member, Harvest Food Outreach Program, Vero Beach

fluenced my personal life and career fairly recently. It’s important to be challenged and have someone push you to be your personal best, farther than you even think you can go. It also helps to laugh a lot and have fun – a similar sense of humor makes mentor/mentee relationships much more productive and rewarding.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

VICTORIA THOMSON

I am most proud of relationships that I have with others, and that I continue to build with people that I interact with. Every individual I meet fascinates me and I want to understand what I can learn about them and from them.

Bimbo Bakeries USA Years with company: 16 Current position:

Senior Director of Sales

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Business, Eastern Illinois University MBA, Marketing, Fordham University Past Chairwoman and President of the Florida Grocery Manufacturers Representatives South Florida Ambassador

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

One in particular has completely transformed and in-

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 48

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Rose Lamendola and Maggie Bunn, my mom and grandmother, showed me it was possible to be highly successful in business and also be a great and involved mother; they were both a head of their time.

Barbara Jarzab, first supervisor at IRI, was extremely bright and a great teacher. Took a chance on me straight out of college, showed me that a positive attitude and confidence were winning characteristics.

Wayne Shurts, director, Nabisco Brands, a true visionary…high energy, clear focus and direction. Encouraged me to complete my MBA and taught me how to have patience and develop others.

Jim Tracy, senior VP, Wakefern Supermarkets, was instrumental in helping me build trust with the customer…a great sounding board with an awesome sense of humor.

Dick Turici, VP/GM at BBU, is one of the most empowering people I know. He gave individuals with talent the opportunity regardless of gender/ethnicity/race… he helped break the glass ceiling for many.

Tony Gavin, SVP of sales, BBU, is probably one of the most strategic people I have ever worked with and learned from...he gave me exposure to our international businesses and leaders.

Bill Fauerbach and Tom McLaughlin, division VPs at Publix Super Markets, both taught me the value of hard work, trust and customer service. Importantly, they taught me the value of giving back to the community and how to be a good role model.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Building meaningful relationships with people. I am honored to have many friends as colleagues and nothing makes me more proud than when they get promoted or advance in their career.

1/20/15 11:40 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

49

The Griffin Report recognizes the monumental efforts of all 2015 honorees.

We applaud the high standards of these women, and we thank everyone who has supported the Women of Influence over the last ten years.

Well Done, 2015 Women of Influence in the Food Industry Honorees!

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 49

1/20/15 11:40 AM

50

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION Board of Advisors; Boston University, Institute for Brands and Brand Relationships Board of Directors

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

CAROL TIENKEN

The Greater Boston Food Bank Years with company: 15 Current position: Chief Oper-

ating Officer and Vice President of Distribution

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: MSJ, Northwestern University BA, Northwestern University Newmarket Business Association Board of Directors; Suffolk University, Masters in Public Administration

Eve Epstein, OD consultant, gave an unemployed college kid a chance when no one else would.

Bill O’Neill, CFO at Polaroid Corp., who believed in me even when I thought he was nuts.

Catherine D’Amato, who had a vision about integrating business practices with non-profits and who coined the term “charitable nonprofits.”

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

in your career?

food procurement specialists into GBFB to ensure high value for our donated dollars and emphasizing nutrition and food safety across our inventory.

I am fortunate to have had many mentors in my career.

One of my most important mentors was an amazing supervisor when I was a buyer who had a vast array of knowledge in the food business. He took me under his wing and helped me develop a strong understanding of category management, which gave me the skills to keep moving forward. Another important mentor for me was my first supervisor at Acosta, Tom Ferrara. He taught me how to be a food broker. He supported me and pushed me to do more and set myself apart from competitors; he was always there coaching my every move. I am truly grateful to all the mentors in my life.

Most challenging part of your job?

Knowing that there are people in Eastern Massachusetts who go to bed hungry despite heroic daily efforts by my team members.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

TINA TRIFARO

Learn everyone’s name in your organization; treat them with respect. Act with integrity. Work in an organization that has meaning for you. Don’t sweat the little stuff.

Acosta Sales & Marketing

Years with company: Nine. A

total of 24 years in the food industry.

Current position: Customer

Hobbies: Scuba diving, ten-

Business Manager

nis, hiking (with rescue pup Sadie) and sailing.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

I am most proud that a visionary non-profit leader like Catherine D’Amato gave me an opportunity to take strong business skills learned at a great company like Polaroid and utilize them in a leadership role to grow and expand a cutting-edge food bank.

Examples include bringing

BS, Marketing, Siena College Involved in the Acosta Culture Committee and Food Bank

I am most proud of the experience I have achieved over the years in the grocery business; learning every aspect from in-store work, buying, category management and calling on cus-

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you

tomer headquarters. Having this experience has both helped and challenged me. I am especially proud of being a three-time Chairman’s Bronze Award winner since I started with Acosta.

Most challenging part of your job?

Balance is the most challenging. Understanding clients’ goals and objectives and then delivering them to the customer and vice versa. I need to do both well.

Keeping things at an even keel and doing what’s best for the company.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: My advice is to be passionate about what you do every day, always being honest, trustworthy, organized and showing respect.

Hobbies: Spending time with my family, shopping, boating, gardening and traveling.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Congratulations

2015

Inductees on a dazzling performance!

From a Friend.

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 50

1/20/15 11:40 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast for Character Counts; and board of directors for the Chrysalis Foundation.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

DONNA TWEETEN Hy-Vee Inc.

Years with company: 25 Current position: Senior Chief

Vice President, Marketing Officer

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

BA, Journalism, Drake University Des Moines Advertising Professionals Group; Public Relations Society of America; American Marketing Association; Iowa Grocery Industry Association’s women in the industry coffee group; advisory board for the School of Journalism at Drake University; communications council

Sue Harrison, my prior boss and owner/partner at Davis Harrison Dion, a Chicago advertising agency, taught me to quit worrying about whether there is a glass ceiling for women. She said to just do your job and do it better than anyone else – man or woman.

Ken Benkstein, my prior boss and partner/owner of Meyocks Benkstein and Associates, a Des Moines PR/ marketing firm, showed by example that hard work always pay offs.

Randy Edeker, my current boss and chief executive officer of Hy-Vee, taught me the importance of acknowledging your weak areas and then surrounding yourself with people who can strengthen your weaknesses.

February 2015

JENNIFER

VAILLANCOURT Shaw’s Supermarkets

Most challenging part of your job?

Years with company: Nine Current position: Director of

Allocating marketing dollars across many channels and defined media spaces.

Predicting a marketing initiative’s return on investment.

Measuring short-term and long-term impacts of marketing spends quantitatively.

Finance

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BS, Finance, Boston College Carroll School of Management National Association of Professional Women

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you

51

job?

Lisa Tremble, former chief financial officer at Charter Professional Services in Salem, Mass., gave me my first push to move over from accounting into finance while working in the healthcare industry. I have not looked back since.

Thank you, Lisa. Shane Sampson, former division president of Shaw’s Supermarkets, believed in me when even I did not fully believe in myself. Thanks for giving me a chance to shine. I am forever grateful.

The toughest part of my job was taking over this role during a challenging transitional point after a company buyout. With little management experience, I was tasked with building a business-supporting finance team while taking on significantly more responsibility than I was used to in my former role. That first year truly tested me, stretched my abilities and helped build my confidence. As hard as it was, I would not trade it for anything.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

After eight years as a senior financial analyst, I took a chance and asked for a promotion to director of finance when the position became available. That was definitely my defining moment in my career to date. Sometimes you cannot get ahead unless you directly express interest and take the reins of your own career.

Most challenging part of your

When you figure out what you want in your career, do not listen when people say that you cannot have it. Believe in yourself and never be afraid to ask for what you deserve.

Hobbies: I love spending time with my husband, Keith, and our two kids, Zoe and Zachary. I also enjoy reading J.D. Robb novels, traveling, bowling and knitting.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 51

in your career?

Producer of the Year by the Des Moines Advertising Professionals Group and being named Alumni of the Year for Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication in 2006. I was also recognized by Progressive Grocer with the Top Women in Grocery Awards - Rising Star in 2011 and Senior Level Executive in 2013. Additional honors included being named president of The Meyocks Group, and most recently being named CMO and the 2014 Officer of the Year, Vice President at Hy-Vee.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

A few of my career highlights include winning the Gold ADDY, being recognized as

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

1/20/15 11:40 AM

52

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

DANA RENEE WELDON Dutch Farms Inc.

Years with company: 11

years, 9 months

Current position: Southeast Regional Manager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Board Member, Alabama Grocers Association, 13 years Member, Georgia Food Industry Association, Florida Retail Federation

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

I have been in this industry for about 35 years and it is

certainly one that is heavily reliant on the connections you make with others.

Although I have had many mentors throughout my career that have shown me how to be successful in this business, I would consider my mother to be my most influential mentor. She taught me the importance of being a good person and reinforced the belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, regardless of the fact that I am a woman. She also taught me the importance of taking pride in myself and what I do, giving 100 percent and always keeping my word.

These skills and traits have been an integral part of my success in this industry.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

In 2010, I was recognized as the Manufacturer of the Year by the Alabama Grocers Association. In 2012, I was awarded the Vendor of the Year by Associated Grocers of the South. However, my career achievements are not only represented in the awards and professional recognition I have received.

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

I am proud, daily, to see the results of my hard work and dedication. While with Dutch Farms, I have not only grown my marketing area, but also my sense of confidence in my abilities.

with high distinction Involved in children’s school activities, helping in the classroom and attending PTA meetings.

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

Most challenging part of your job?

The biggest challenge for me currently is to understand all of the aspects of the dairy business. Part of continued success in this industry is being able to adapt to an everchanging marketplace!

KRISTA WELLSWENDT

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Martin’s Super Markets

It is not enough to know your company and the industry, you must also know the people that you working with. Relationships are an essential component of this career, and they are built on commitment and trust.

Years with company: 15 Current position: HR Man-

ager

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations:

Hobbies:

Bachelor’s, Business Administration with concentration in HR management, Colorado Technical University, 2009, summa cum laude.

MA, Mass Communication, University of Florida, 2014,

Boating, traveling, cooking, antiquing, visiting the beach and simply enjoying life.

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

During my career I have been fortunate enough to work with a number of fantastic individuals who have helped me grow and develop personally and professionally. About 10 years ago I was a young and green store HR coordinator. I didn’t know a lot about the grocery industry or how to make good hiring decisions that truly met the needs of the store. Chris Belakovich was my store manager at the time and he supported me wholeheartedly; he constantly provided feedback and shared his knowledge of the industry, which allowed me to make decisions based on what was best for the store. I have also been lucky enough to work with two wonderful ladies in the HR department, Becky Anson and Sara Brodzinski. Both have kept me challenged, allowed me to be involved in projects that involve different areas of the organization and have aided me in further developing my HR knowledge and skills.

Without the support of all

Congratulatory Message Index Acosta .................................. 14 Ahold USA .......................... 23 Albertsons ............................ 35 Arby’s Restaurant Group ..... 29 AG of New England ............. 45 Bimbo Bakeries USA ........... 53 Blount Fine Foods ................ 41 Bozzuto’s Inc........................ 55 Bristol Farms ....................... 21 Brookshire Grocery Co. ........ 51 Burtons Grill ........................ 53 C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc. 31 Checkers Drive-In ................ 17 Daymon Worldwide ............. 25 Delhaize America ................ 34 Dunkin’ Brands Inc. .............. 7

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 52

F.A.B. Inc. ............................ 9 Food 4 Less ........................ 39 Friendly’s Ice Cream Corp. .. 47 Giant Eagle Inc. .................. 30 Greater Boston Food Bank ... 41 H.P. Hood LLC .................... 10 HY-VEE ................................ 3 Imperial Distributors............ 19 Kings Super Markets............ 48 Kroger ................................. 13 Love & Quiches .................... 54 Master Martini ....................... 4 Nestle Waters ........................ 6 NE Dairy Promotion Board.... 5 PA Food Merchants Assoc. .. 37 Perkins Paper ...................... 39

three aforementioned individuals I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

When I look back at my career there are many moments that make me proud, including hiring and training individuals who are now department managers. However, I have to say the moment that stands out was when I was given the opportunity to manage a large work force management software rollout. It has been a challenge but it has also been great fun.

Most challenging part of your job?

Being a working mother!

Sometimes I find it difficult to find the perfect work/ life balance, but I work for a company that values family and family commitments, which makes it easier to ask for time off to attend a field trip, class event or to take a day off when my children are out of school without feeling guilty.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Always give 110 percent and continue to challenge yourself and those around you.

Roche Bros. Supermarkets .. 18 Shaw’s Supermarket ............ 11 St. Joseph’s University ........ 43 Tops Markets ....................... 27 Trans-Ocean Products ......... 29 Trio Packaging Corp./AMI Specilaty Films Inc. ............. 37 Unified Grocers .................... 56 United Natural Foods Inc. ... 25 Valley Fine Foods .................. 8 Wakefern Food Corp............ 33 WAFC ................................. 15

1/20/15 11:40 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

53

CONGRATULATIONS

VICTORIA VIC TORIA THOMSON Bimbo_02_GriffinWOI.indd 1

1/8/15 2:46 PM

CONGRATULATIONS to Denise

Baron Herrera!

BurtonsGrill_02_GriffinWOI.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 53

12/31/14 2:10 PM

1/20/15 11:46 AM

54

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

me at arents guilty hts or vel. I o have who pursue es ined our but it uilt of

ounger

sturize Evdding.

Don’t Once ething, e.

AMANDA WHALEN

C&S Wholesale Grocers Years with company: Joined

in 2014

Current

position: Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Innovation

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: BA, Princeton University MBA, MIT Sloan School of Management Executive Women’s Roundtable Board of Directors, American Dairyco

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

TGR_WOI_2015-LG.indd 54

I’ve had many mentors, both internal and external to the companies where I have worked. The external mentors have helped me identify issues and work through challenges, learn new areas, and really think through where I want to take my career and how to get there.

My internal mentors (and, importantly, my sponsors) have been willing to place bets on me – they’ve given me big, challenging assignments that push me out of my comfort zone and the support needed to be successful in those roles.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

My most recent role before C&S was chief financial officer of a food manufacturer.

In the course of one year, we reorganized the function to better align to the business, significantly improved analytics to support decision-making in operations and sales, strengthened our accounting processes and overhauled the way we reported our financials to align with our new owners’ preferred way of looking at the numbers. It was an amazing amount of progress in a short period of time, and a great

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

February 2015

team who worked together to accomplish it.

Service Management Group (SMG) Client Advisory Board Northeastern University MBA Program Career Track Advisory Board Boston Museum of Science Young Leadership Committee

Most challenging part of your job?

C&S is in a period of tremendous growth, with incredible opportunity ahead. We also compete in a challenging industry, and our customers do as well. We challenge ourselves every day to make sure that, as we grow, we’re doing everything we possibly can to make our customers successful. Our first priority, as it says on our business cards, is “Braggingly Happy Customers.”

Who are your mentors and how have they assisted you in your career?

REBECCA ZOGBI

Advice for upcoming younger executives:

Dunkin’ Brands Inc. Years with company: 15 Current position: Vice Presi-

“Know what you want, and know how to ask for it.”

People generally want to help you be successful, and to grow and develop your career, if you have the right attitude and approach them in the right way. But they can’t read your mind. You have to be clear on what you want and where you’re headed.

dent of Global Consumer & Business Insights

Education degrees, professional/volunteer organizations: Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Massachusetts, Amherst Mass.

Masters of Education, University of LaVerne New Sector Alliance Board Member

www.foodindustrywomen.com I N

T H E

F O O D

I N D U S T R Y

Each of the mentors I’ve had over the years has brought a different perspective and provided guidance and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Two key qualities I’ve noticed they all share are patience and an ability to provide candid feedback that goes beyond the specifics of a particular role. For example, offering advice on how to handle business dealings with different cultures or how to stay true to my own personality and build on strengths while navigating challenging situations. The mentors I’ve had have empowered me to grow my career by instilling a sense of confidence and pushing me to be the best that I can be.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements?

Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?

I am most proud of my team and what an outstanding group we have assembled.

In today’s lean environment of always being asked to do more without additional resources, they enable my department to fire on all cylinders, making us responsive to all the demands and needs of the organization domestically and internationally.

When I look at my team, I see a remarkable collection of people, expertise and skill sets, and it has been incredibly rewarding to watch them expand their influence organizationally and take on greater challenges.

Most challenging part of your job?

Two elements: being charged with heading a function that is designed to provide strategic guidance, and working in a franchise system. Both require me to influence a wide variety of stakeholders who at times may have disparate perspectives and goals. This requires a constant balancing act of trying to understand and take all viewpoints into account while always keeping the interests of the business forefront.

1/20/15 11:40 AM

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

Now you can add “award-winner” Now you can add to your long list of “award-winner” accomplishments! to your long list of February 2015

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

55

accomplishments!

Congratulations, Pat Mancinelli, on your Congratulations, Women ofMancinelli, Influence Award.

Pat on your Women of Influence Award.

www.bozzutos.com

1.800.243.9761

www.bozzutos.com

1.800.243.9761

Untitled-3 1 boz_30647_01_GR_10.875x15_Mancinelli_WOI_M.indd 1

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 55

1/19/15 4:29 PM 1/12/15 3:15 PM

1/20/15 11:46 AM

56

Women of Influence in the Food Industry 10TH EDITION

TGR_WOI_2015-FP-ADS.indd 56

February 2015

The Griffin Report of the Northeast

1/20/15 11:47 AM