2024 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Jennifer Sellars (Q&A)

Jennifer Sellars

Managing Director, Business Systems Development & Support
Pattison Food Group 

How did you get your start in the grocery business?

I joined the Overwaitea Food Group 22 years ago as a programmer on a project implementing our point-of-sale system. Through that role, I was exposed to retail operations, finance and merchandising and was introduced to the complexity and challenges of grocery. Further opportunities to be part of other projects and solving interesting problems with driven, positive people kept me hooked.

What keeps you passionate about your work?

The next opportunity and challenge in always around the corner. Seeing our dedicated team members grow in their careers, solving problems and successfully delivering business value is a great reward.

What is the best advice you've received in your career?

 I have been fortunate to work with many strong, supportive leaders so it’s hard to choose one piece of advice. The importance of solid decision making is a big one—to make well-informed, timely decisions—but to never be tied to a bad decision. To make the best decision based on the available information at the time, but adjust quickly as required.

What would you say is a highlight of your career, so far?

There have been a number of moments I’m proud of, but none more than being recognized by individuals that I have made a difference or inspired them in their career journey.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work, I have three boys who are very involved in team sports. I can usually be found cheering them on at a hockey rink, soccer field or somewhere in between! I also love spending time outdoors–hiking, skiing and camping.

What is a fun fact about you?

I have a degree in microbiology and immunology and was planning to work in a health sciences field, until I heard about a new program encouraging women to enter computer science at UBC [The University of British Columbia].

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