2026 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Brianne Arnott (Q&A)
Brianne Arnott
Director, Marketing, Communications & Events
UNFI Canada
What is your superpower?
I’m a highly tactical multitasker with an almost unnatural ability to hit deadlines, no matter how many plates are spinning. If my life depended on it, I wouldn’t miss a thing … with the lone exception of submitting my taxes on time! I thrive in fast-paced environments where prioritization, momentum and follow-through really matter.
What do you like most about your job?
I love that my team is small but mighty. We work across multiple disciplines including marketing, communications, events, strategy and revenue generation, which means no two days ever look the same. I’m constantly moving from one project to another, and I never get bored. What energizes me most is my team and my peers—their creativity, curiosity and willingness to push ideas forward inspires me every single day.
What kind of leader do you aspire to be?
I’m a hands-on leader, someone who understands how to do the work while also knowing how to guide it. I believe there’s real power in getting your hands dirty to truly understand the nuances of the business. That’s where the best insights come from, and where you find opportunities to do things differently, smarter and better. Leading from the front builds trust, clarity and momentum.
What is your proudest career moment?
One of my proudest moments was recently reimagining two long-standing events and combining them into a single, show-stopping experience. The energy and excitement during those show days was electric and will be hard to replicate. Seeing the industry come together, the connections that were made and knowing my team brought a bold idea to life in such a meaningful and impactful way is something I’ll never forget.
What excites you about the grocery business?
I’m a tried-and-true natural and organic marketer to my core. Working with founders and promoting brands that are genuinely creating good products for the world makes me feel like I’m contributing to something positive, even in a small way. Grocery touches everyone’s daily life, and that responsibility and opportunity continues to excite me.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Outside of work, my greatest joy is my six-year-old son, who lights up my life daily. Along with my husband and our two chocolate lab puppies, we love spending as much time as possible at the cottage—swimming, boating and soaking up the outdoors. That time together is grounding, energizing and incredibly important to me.
Click here for the full list of 2026 Star Women in Grocery Award winners.