2024 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Jennifer Teixeira (Q&A)
Jennifer Teixeira
Vice-President of Operations – Loblaw Cos. Ltd., Hard Discount
No Frills (Ontario & Atlantic)
How did you get your start in the grocery business?
I started at Loblaw 27 years ago as a young, part-time cashier, where doing the right things for customers laid the foundation for my career. I remember my first day vividly– 16 years old and so proud to be wearing my President’s Choice cookie bow tie. I worked at the store part-time throughout high school and went on to study at Ryerson University for social work. Soon after graduation, I realized I had a passion for grocery retail. I applied for an internal posting to become a front-end trainer and recruiter, where I was given the opportunity to travel across the country opening No Frills stores. In a 10-year span, I had the privilege of opening 101 stores. I went on to hold numerous roles including director of operational support, director of CES, district manager and group director for No Frills.
What intrigues you about the grocery business?
The fast-paced nature of the industry, the constant evolution and innovation excites me. The opportunity to serve a diverse range of customers and the satisfaction of ensuring customers have access to affordable, essential food to feed their families and helping Canadians live life well.
What keeps you motivated at work?
The opportunity to make a positive impact and the challenge of undertaking new projects keeps me motivated. Developing my team drives me to be a better leader, providing guidance, encouragement and opportunities for growth. Fostering a collaborative environment is the cornerstone of my leadership style, where each team member can thrive, learn and succeed.
What do you like most about your job?
I truly love what I do! No two days are the same in operations. The grocery business keeps me on my toes. However, what I love most is working with purpose and my sincere passion for people. We are a people business and I am in my happy place when I am out in stores talking to customers, franchise owners and their teams.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
Growing up in this business has been a journey of learning how to adapt, especially in navigating various leadership styles. It’s fascinating how each leader brings a unique approach, from authoritative to collaborative. Observing these styles has helped shape my journey as a leader over the years. Adapting to these diverse styles has not only improved my versatility, but also enhanced my outlook on effective leadership.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
As I reflect on the challenging aspects of my job, I realize it’s me! I can be hard on myself. Striving for excellence is essential; however, I’m learning to balance high standards with compassion to maintain a healthy perspective and well-being.
What career advice would you give your younger self?
The advice I would give my younger self is to avoid comparing myself to others. Realizing that every journey is unique and focusing on my own progress, growth and goals will lead to greater fulfillment and success. I would tell myself to embrace the path and celebrate achievements. This will allow you to stay focused on your own development and aspirations.
What is the best career advice you have ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received comes from my parents. They instilled in me to always stay true to my authentic self, work hard and align my values and goals. This allows you to lead with integrity, confidence and a sense of purpose. Always remember who you are at your core.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love to read novels, but I can only indulge in them on vacation. Why? Because once I start reading I get so captivated that I lose track of time and end up staying up all night. My husband often reminds me that reading novels isn’t a competition.
Click here for the full list of 2024 Star Women in Grocery award winners.