2024 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Leah Hardy (Q&A)
Leah Hardy
Regional Sales Manager
Wonderful Sales
How did you get your start in the food business?
I started as a cashier at my local Zehrs, where I worked throughout high school and university. After finishing my degree, I took a data management position for centre of store at Loblaw’s head office, before eventually moving into produce procurement. I left retail to pursue marketing at Dare Foods before landing in sales as a regional manager for Wonderful Sales.
What do you like most about your job?
The culture and pace of produce. The industry is ever-changing and no two days are the same. On the surface, produce is challenging and highly competitive, but at its core is an underlying sense of understanding and community. I’m fortunate to work with great people every day—from my internal team at Wonderful, to my customers and within the broader industry.
What is a career challenge you've faced and how did you overcome it?
Having worked across three distinct areas throughout my career, I’ve struggled with impostor syndrome—especially when initially taking on a new role. Taking advantage of learning resources (courses, training, advice from mentors, etc.) early in the transition process has helped me get up to speed quickly and feel validated and comfortable in the role.
What is the best advice you've received in your career?
There are two pieces of advice I consistently reflect on: 1. Growth is uncomfortable. It requires stepping outside of your comfort zone, taking chances and trying new things. 2. Work/life balance is secondary to work/life harmony. The demands of your family/personal life and career will constantly ebb and flow. Learn to ride the waves and prioritize as necessary.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
My time outside of work is spent with my two young daughters and husband. Our girls are in gymnastics and watching them build confidence through a sport that they love is something that we enjoy. When I have time to myself, you can usually find me swimming laps at the pool, running or golfing.
What is a fun fact about you?
My all-time favourite movie is Ferris Bueller's Day Off. “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Anything else you'd like to add?
My proudest career milestone is to have established the WPN (Women’s Produce Network) under the Ontario Produce Marketing Association with my co-chair Amanda Knauff. Watching the network connect so many talented women and industry allies has been inspiring, and one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. I’m excited for the future of the WPN and produce, as these connections help to elevate women and drive stronger representation.
Click here for the full list of 2024 Star Women in Grocery award winners.