2024 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Marie-Josée Gervais (Q&A)

Marie-Josée Gervais

VP, Foodservice & Distributor Sales
Lactalis Canada

How did you get your start in the CPG business? 

It was a pure stroke of luck when a friend informed me of a great opportunity at Parmalat Canada (now Lactalis Canada). Coming from the retail fashion world, I was excited to dive into something entirely different and I’ve never looked back. 

What's the biggest challenge faced in your career? 

Right after joining Lactalis Canada’s Foodservice team, a plant closure was impacting the production and supply of our products to customers. As a newbie to the foodservice division, I had to quickly learn a new market, adapt to new ways of working in a business that was unfamiliar, build customer relationships and manage a new team while facing these challenges. While I was literally learning something new every day, it was truly because of the people who surrounded me that we were able to overcome the challenges and have a successful outcome. 

What's the best advice you've received? 

“Do not try to become somebody else, stay true to yourself and be authentic.”

How would you describe your leadership style? 

Transformational leadership. I am solutions-driven and can handle crises by engaging in the expertise and support of others. I am genuinely interested in what they have to say and naturally find ways to develop others. I place great importance on teamwork and ensuring individual input is integrated into the team’s action plan. Teamwork is crucial in achieving results.

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