2026 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Manon Bouffard (Q&A)
Manon Bouffard
OPEX Manager
Kruger Products
How did you get your start in the CPG business?
I began my career with Kruger Products as a process engineer in 1999. Early on, I took on a variety of roles that allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the operations. In 2006, I was the first in the Gatineau, Que. plant to earn the Lean Six-Sigma black belt, which led me to contributing to the launch of OPEX in 2019. As a result, I worked closely with the converting department and sought new challenges at the Sherbrooke plant, participating in its startup and that of the LDC (light dry crepe) plant in 2024. Since 2021, I've served as OPEX manager in Sherbrooke.
What is your leadership style?
My philosophy is to lead by having a deep understanding of the business and staying close to the team. I believe in being hands-on, listening to people and working collaboratively to identify challenges and improve together. If you take care of your people and treat them honestly and fairly, you build a stronger, more effective team.
Best advice you’ve received?
The best advice I’ve ever received from another woman leader is to bring positivity, energy and your own vibe to the team, and make genuine connections with those you work with. It’s important to be clear about your goals and expectations, and to explain your vision to your team.
What keeps you passionate about your work?
The constant opportunity to grow and develop, both personally and professionally. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have access to new challenges that pushed me outside my comfort zone. While these opportunities initially made me feel uneasy, over time I began to see them as chances to expand my skill set and build confidence. I’ve noticed that, as a woman leader, working collaboratively as a team comes naturally, and that spirit makes the workplace more enjoyable and productive. The collective support and teamwork, alongside the challenges I’ve been given, have allowed me to strengthen my leadership skills and hone my technical abilities. It’s this continuous learning and the encouragement from those around me that truly fuel my passion for my work.
What is your best quality?
Showing up matters. Establishing a thriving career as a woman in an industry typically dominated by men hasn’t always been simple. It’s taken perseverance and reliability to carve out my place, and I’m genuinely proud of that achievement.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I used to say I didn’t like cats—until my family brought one home and convinced me to keep him. How could I say no when he’s so cuddly and affectionate. Now, I absolutely love Ti-mine, and he’s become a big part of our lives!
Click here for the full list of 2026 Star Women in Grocery Award winners.