2025 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Lindsey McDonald (Q&A)

Lindsey McDonald 

Brand Manager
The J.M. Smucker Company

You started as an intern at Smucker. How did you make the most of the opportunity and grow your career? 

I immersed myself in the company's culture. I actively participated in the Council of Fun and other committees. I worked on impactful projects that added value to the company. Through my internship, I developed strong relationships, I was eager to learn and very curious about the business. This experience provided me with a deep understanding of the CPG industry and Smucker's unique culture. After graduation, I was fortunate to secure a full-time position.

Best career advice you've received? 

“Lead from where you are.” This advice was given to me early in my career and I found it very inspiring. It’s [about] the importance of taking initiative and demonstrating leadership qualities, regardless of your position or title. I have used this advice throughout my career to stay true to who I am and my values. The skills I developed through years of competitive sports have shaped my leadership style, allowing me to lead by example through a strong work ethic, integrity and dedication—qualities that have earned the respect and trust of my colleagues.

Proudest career moment? 

Winning the Paul Smucker Sales award in 2024 was a significant milestone in my career. It recognized my hard work and dedication to achieving outstanding sales results. Receiving the award also highlighted my ability to build strong relationships with customers and colleagues. It was not just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the support and opportunities provided by my team and the company. The Paul Smucker Sales award remains a defining moment in my career, one that continues to inspire and drive me forward.

You mentor those early in their careers. Tell us a bit about that work.  

I am an active member of GROW (Growth Resources & Opportunities for Women), which aims to empower women at Smucker. Through this organization, I play a key role in mentoring and enabling women to gain confidence in their abilities, helping them advance within the organization and reach their full potential. I provide guidance, share my experiences and offer support to help them set and achieve their goals. Mentoring is incredibly rewarding and important to me as it played a pivotal role in my career when I was an intern. I learn just as much from the mentees as they gain from me. Seeing mentees gain confidence, achieve their goals and grow into successful professionals is a testament to the power of mentorship and the supportive community we have built at Smucker.

What excites you about the grocery business? 

"The only constant is change" — that’s the grocery industry! It’s rewarding to be part of an industry that directly impacts people's daily lives and well-being. I am a consumer as well and I bring that mindset to everything we do. Technologies, policies, innovation—there is never a day where something isn’t changing. I like to problem solve and, ultimately, find a way for our products to be in the hearts, minds and homes of our consumers. 

What do you like to do when you’re not working? 

You can find me spending quality time with my family, whether we're at the arena, on the golf course or at the cottage. Family is my top priority and I value every moment with them. I grew up playing competitive hockey and played varsity at university. I still play hockey, but have shifted my focus to coaching a local girls' under-9 rep team, where I share my passion for the sport and help develop their skills both on the ice and in life. 

Click here for the full list of 2025 Star Women in Grocery Award winners.