2024 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Marie-Andrée Hotte (Q&A)

Marie-Andrée Hotte

Senior Customer Development Manager, Quebec
Tree of Life Canada

How did you get your start in the CPG business? 

I started as a senior commercial manager’s assistant for a broker 22 years ago!

What keeps you motivated at work?

The opportunity to learn new things, to discover, to meet and to have the chance to work with so many extraordinary people in the industry. I enjoy seeing the effects of these wonderful collaborations turn into tangible results.

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in your career? 

My greatest challenge has certainly been juggling my career and raising my children. I’ve been fortunate to have bosses who have supported me greatly and have allowed me to thrive in my career without having to sacrifice my other role, which I believe is equally important.

What would you say is your leadership style/philosophy?

I would say that my leadership style is a hybrid between participative and delegative. I am surrounded by competent people who know their job—micromanagement is not really my style. I sincerely believe by consulting others and discussing, we come up with much more effective solutions based on everyone’s knowledge and strengths.

What is a career highlight or greatest achievement?

I consider being nominated for this award by my company as a career highlight. It was a pleasant surprise for me, and the recognition of our peers and leaders is very meaningful to me.

What do you like most about your job? 

What I appreciate above all is the fact that each day is unlike any other. I learn, I develop new skills or relationships, I achieve new goals. Basically, every day is filled with new challenges to tackle. 

What do you like to do when not working?

Going to the movies, hiking, reading [and] watching my children play soccer.

Click here for the full list of 2024 Star Women in Grocery award winners.