2022 Star Women in Grocery winner Manon Lavallée (Q&A)

Manon Lavallée

Zone Sales Director

PepsiCo Foods Canada

 

How did you get into the grocery/CPG business?

As president of my marketing class, my objective was to create a corporate event with local businesses to ensure all my peers and myself were able to find an internship, which was required to obtain your diploma. PepsiCo Beverages attended the event and offered me an internship in their marketing department. I loved the culture and the industry right away and my three-week internship became a full career going on 23 years!

What are some of your career highlights?

One highlight that stands out is working with a great global R&D innovation team to launch the first bottle made from 100% recycled plastic in 2010 called 7Up EcoGreen. We were pioneers and I learned so much during the entire process. I was the marketing manager at the time, and I was so proud to be able to actively participate in such a great innovation.

How do you support the industry’s future leaders?

I am a mentor to younger leaders within my company and am committed to supporting the development of those around me. I’m involved in various events where I speak about my career path and share my knowledge. I think it’s incredibly important to share our knowledge and give advice to the next generation of leaders. I was lucky to meet great people at the beginning of my career who trusted me despite my lack of experience.

What is your proudest moment?

My proudest moment was when I was selected for an annual PepsiCo recognition called Coach of the Year in 2018. The award celebrates exceptional leaders who are committed to developing our associates and helping the business grow. My direct reports had sent my nomination without telling me, so I was also very proud to have their recognition.

What is your best quality?

I was in a great leadership course a few years ago and we talked about personal branding. I can describe my brand as: a champion team builder who cares for my team, great communicator and coach, calm energy in the eye of a storm, and open-minded and approachable.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like to spend time with my family and accompany my two daughters in their activities. I’m very busy and need to be involved in many things, such as being an active member of the board of the Artistic Swimming Club in my town.

Click here for the full list of 2022 Star Women in Grocery award winners.