2025 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Jennifer Hall (Q&A)
Jennifer Hall
Store Manager
Food Basics, Mississauga, Ont.
Metro
How did you get your start in the grocery business?
My journey in the grocery industry started when I was a child. I enjoyed the experience so much that I would always accompany my parents on their routine grocery runs. The leap into the grocery business came in high school when I applied for a part-time cashier position at my local Food Basics. Ever since, I grew within the organization and have held different positions within the stores. My true passion has always been working at store level with different groups of people to manage daily business needs—be it with our customers, employees or partners.
What is your proudest career moment or accomplishment?
When my store won the Platinum Foodland Ontario award last summer. I am passionate about offering local products that come directly from Ontario farms into our stores. My team and I dedicate time and effort into these displays, showcasing Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables. Our customers have always shown tremendous demand and support for great-quality products that are grown in our province by Canadians for Canadians.
How would you describe your leadership style?
Today’s manager has to wear many hats, so if I had to pick a management style, it would be situational. I am incredibly flexible and focused on what each situation requires, and I strive to always support my staff. I am also always receptive to the new ideas and initiatives that Metro brings forward, keeping leaders such as myself evolving and changing with the times.
What advice would you give to up-and-comers in the grocery business?
My advice is to find and follow your passion within the business. Work and learn as much as you can on the ground level—starting with feedback from your customers, peers and partners. With an open mind and willingness to learn, you will eventually know the ins and outs of the business and how each department operates. As you grow, your broader perspective will help you see the inner workings of the store and how decisions are made. In time, with natural growth and progression, the skills you learn will benefit you greatly once you become part of the management team.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
Every day after work, I look forward to being with my three little girls and husband. We spend time doing everything from cooking or baking on rainy days (or weekends) to enjoying nature walks all year long. In the summertime, we love going to the beach in Southampton [Ontario], and in the winter, whenever possible, skiing at Mont-Tremblant [Quebec]. We love going on mini vacations to explore little gems like Southampton!
Anything else you’d like to share?
I always try to keep everything in life simple: Learn who you are, find your passion and share it with the world. Who knows what you will learn or what adventure you will embark on tomorrow!
Click here for the full list of 2025 Star Women in Grocery Award winners.