2021 Star Women in Grocery winner Mina Fior (Q&A)
Mina Fior
Senior vice-president, Human Resources
Kruger Products
How did you get into the grocery/CPG business?
My passion for CPG started when I joined Nabisco’s Mr. Christie bakery. This is where I first developed my love for brands and the promise they deliver. Having my office directly over the chocolate chip cookie line definitely had its perks! This is where I first made the connection between product branding and employer branding, both needing to create meaningful experiences that deliver on value, quality and purpose.
What are you proudest about in terms of your work?
Developing people, building teams and strengthening culture has been and continues to be my biggest source of energy and inspiration. I am most proud of the part I am able to play in helping people at all levels of the organization leverage their passion, purpose and strengths to reach their potential and achieve their goals.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career?
The pandemic has been the most challenging experience I’ve ever had to lead through. For heads of HR, this was undeniably the moment to step forward and lead, and there were definitely some days when it felt like my hair was on fire. As the fear and uncertainty of COVID-19 grew, so did our commitment to being open, transparent, simplifying complexity, staying connected and communicating often, even when we didn’t have all the answers. Leading through this challenge has opened my mind and heart to all that we have and what matters most.
What has been a career highlight or one of your greatest achievements?
Having the honour of being the head of HR at tremendous companies in Canada like Kraft, Aramark and most recently Kruger Products, has definitely been the highlight of my career. Life is all about perspective and I feel that my greatest achievement has been to be able to realize my career aspirations without compromising any other important aspect of my life and being present in all that I do. Being a wife, mom, daughter, sister and friend means the world to me and I can honestly say that I have not missed a special moment in my family’s life.
What is your leadership style/philosophy?
Servant leaders set big goals for their people, help them navigate, provide timely feedback, communicate openly and clearly, and break down any barriers to help teams win together. I believe leaders are responsible for creating a team vibe that brings out the best in others by building a positive, collaborative and inclusive environment. Leaders build people’s confidence enabling their teams to achieve, grow and thrive.
What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy being able to strengthen the employee value proposition and the connection people have to their company. Building positive employee experiences and seeing people achieve their career and business objectives is what I like most. I’m grateful to be working in an industry I love, and being part of such an incredible team of authentic, smart and giving people makes me better.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Just a heartfelt thank you. It is truly an honour to receive this recognition.
Click here for the full list of 2021 Star Women in Grocery award winners.