2025 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Pamela Wong (Q&A)
Pamela Wong
Group Director of Operations, Hard Discount, No Frills (Ontario GTA & Atlantic)
Loblaw
How did you get your start in the grocery business?
I got my start in the grocery business 29 years ago as a deli clerk, slicing meats, preparing food and serving customers with a smile. That role taught me the importance of teamwork, attention to detail and delivering excellent customer service—values that have stayed with me throughout my career. I quickly fell in love with the fast-paced environment and the sense of accomplishment that came from helping customers every day. Since then, I’ve embraced every opportunity to learn, take on new challenges and grow within the company, eventually working my way into leadership roles. It’s been an incredible journey built on hard work, curiosity and a passion for retail.
What keeps you passionate about your work?
I’m passionate about growing people and teams. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing team members succeed and knowing I played a part in that growth. I thrive on the sense of collaboration and the shared wins that come with building something together.
What is a career challenge you've faced and how did you overcome it?
Transitioning from operations to merchandising as a category director was a big shift for me. It required a new way of thinking and a different set of skills. I overcame it by staying curious, asking questions, and leaning into the support of great mentors. That experience, ultimately, made me a stronger, more well-rounded leader.
What is the best career advice you've received?
“Lead with authenticity” —and it’s something I try to live every day. Being true to myself has helped me build genuine trust with my team and lead with confidence, especially during high-pressure situations. That advice resonates even more deeply, because it aligns with the values my mom and dad instilled in me from a young age: the importance of hard work, staying grounded and leading with integrity.
What has been a career highlight, so far?
One of the biggest highlights of my career so far has been stepping into my current role as the group director of operations, where I have the privilege of overseeing more than 120 stores across the Ontario GTA and Atlantic regions. It's incredibly rewarding to support such a large and diverse team, driving operational excellence, developing future leaders and making a meaningful impact on both our business performance and customer experience. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I’m proud to help shape the direction and success of our stores at such a wide scale.
What is your leadership style?
I lead with transparency and a strong focus on team development. I believe in empowering others, setting clear expectations and celebrating progress.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I love spending time with my nephew Jayden, my family and friends, as well as exploring new places through travel. I also enjoy discovering different ways to relax and recharge—whether it’s being outside or simply enjoying a quiet moment alone.
What is a fun fact about you?
I’m notoriously directionally challenged, which is pretty ironic given my role as an operator, where I spend most of my time driving from store to store. If GPS ever stops working, I might be in trouble!
Anything else you'd like to add?
I’m honoured to be recognized among so many inspiring women in the grocery industry. This business has given me so much, and I’m committed to giving back by mentoring and supporting others.
Click here for the full list of 2025 Star Women in Grocery Award winners.