DIRECTOR OF FOODSERVICE AND CHEESE ZUPAN’S MARKETS
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is finding ways to improve the work experience for our associates. I believe that improving the work experience for associates helps them to feel supported and valued, which in turn allows them to provide excellent customer service and deliver high-quality products. I also really enjoy mentoring small startup food companies in all their phases, from ideation to bringing the product to market and then growing their brand.
What inspires your leadership approach?
My leadership approach is inspired by collaboration, inquisitiveness, innovation and continuous improvement. I truly believe that each voice has value and when we take the time and space to listen, we can learn and improve.
What do you value most about being a part of the grocery business?
The most valuable aspect of working in the grocery business is the ability to build relationships within my community and throughout the world. Engaging with a wide spectrum of people across multiple industries using the shared language of our love for food is always exciting and inspiring. Grocery stores have always been at the center of their communities, and this has never been truer than during the pandemic. I have really valued being part of a business that has helped to ensure that our communities have continued safe access to food.
Favorite food: My favorite foods change daily and are fully dependent on what is in season, where I am in the world and the weather (burrata and tomatoes at the height of summer; mussels taste best in San Francisco; and lychees in New York City Chinatown are a must have if I am lucky enough to be there in late June). One thing I love and can eat anytime is kimchi.
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