2025 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Shelly Watson (Q&A)

Shelly Watson

Omni Merchant, Deli/HMR
Walmart Canada

How did you get your start in the grocery business?

I started out studying fashion arts in school and got into retail management within that sector. My first corporate opportunity was with Winners Merchants International, where I learned about merchandising and worked with both domestic and international suppliers. Over time, I realized my true passion was food. I’ve been in the Canadian grocery industry for 14 years, all of them at Walmart Canada in food merchandising. There is something deeply fulfilling about knowing what I do helps put food on the tables of families across Canada.

What intrigues you about the grocery business?

The industry is dynamic and ever-changing; every day is different! I’m very customer focused and Walmart’s mission to help Canadians save money and live better within an industry dedicated to creating value, and delivering customer satisfaction keeps me grounded and driven. The constant progress and challenges fuel my passion as I contribute to topline, bottom-line and market share growth. At Walmart, I enjoy a lot of autonomy in my role, working with a leadership team that empowers me to make decisions. It’s incredibly rewarding to know my work creates value for customers and contributes to their well-being. 

What keeps you motivated at work?

My two daughters, Mayah (nine) and Nayomi (six), are my biggest source of motivation. I remind them daily they can achieve anything they set their minds to, and I work hard to lead by example. Building a legacy they can be proud of fuels my drive. Additionally, I find immense inspiration from my team. Collaborating with passionate individuals in a productive environment is not only motivating, but incredibly empowering.

What do you like most about your job?

Food product creation feeds my creative side. What I enjoy most is designing and developing products with our cross-functional teams and seeing those products ultimately arrive in-store. Every launch feels like adding a new member to my “product family.” I affectionately call them my “product babies,” and I have more of those than actual children! 

What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your career? 

I’m currently navigating a project I believe will be the most transformational of my career. It’s challenging, high-impact and pushes me in all the best ways. I approach it with humility and excitement knowing it will leave a lasting imprint. I’m honoured to be leading it.   

What career advice would you give your younger self?

I would offer three key pieces of advice: embrace the unpredictable path, own your calm confidence and prioritize family and creativity. Your journey will be filled with unexpected turns and difficult terrain, but your resilience and self-determination will carry you through. A quote from one of my poems always reminds me to stay open to growth: "Live life like an incomplete painting; discover new lines." That line reflects the beauty of evolving, welcoming the unknown and continuing to learn. Also, recognize and be grateful for the invaluable support of mentors, colleagues and collaborators.

Your quiet, calm nature isn’t a weakness it’s your superpower. In a chaotic industry, your ability to stay grounded and respond with thoughtful, effective solutions will be invaluable and become one of your greatest strengths. Cherish time with family above all else—they’re your grounding force and greatest source of joy. The memories you create with them will be your most treasured accomplishments. No professional milestone will ever compare to the fulfilment that comes from being fully present for the people you love. Never lose your connection to the arts—creativity is your sanctuary and lifeline. Diving into the arts is where you reconnect with yourself and gives you balance, healing and a renewed sense of purpose. In the noise of corporate life, your creative expressions will remind you of who you are beyond your title. 

What is the best career advice you have ever received?

“We’re not performing brain surgery—no one will die if you choose to shut down your computer and go home.” This reminder has helped me prioritize work-life balance, which is essential for long-term success and well-being.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m a published poet and spoken word performer. I've been writing poems since I was a teenager, participated in several open mic events and won a few competitions. After compiling many notebooks, I self-published my first book of poems, which includes pieces that are point-of-views from meaningful conversations I've had. I had the honour of performing as a spoken word artist at Afrofest Toronto, the largest free African Music Festival in North America. This experience was one of the scariest, but most rewarding things I've ever done.

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