Catching up with previous Generation Next winners
Canadian Grocer’s Generation Next Awards honour emerging leaders (under 40) who are shaping Canada’s grocery industry.
Ahead of this year’s nomination deadline (Sept. 13!!!!), we checked in with past winners to find out how their careers are progressing.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
Nena Pidskalny
Job then: Store brands specialist, Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL)
Job now: Associate vice-president, food, FCL
What has changed in your career since winning the Generation Next Award?
Shortly after receiving the award, I took on a new role within our centre-led procurement team. My responsibilities quickly expanded, leading to higher levels of leadership within procurement. Eventually, I transitioned into leading a new supply chain strategy and planning function at our organization. After spending a few years in procurement and supply chain, an exciting opportunity to lead our food division became available and I took that on a few months ago.
What future goals have you set for yourself?
I aim to continue learning and to become the best leader I can be, while opening doors for those around me. One of my main goals is to work in executive leadership, and I aspire to be a CEO one day.
READ: 2023 Star Women in Grocery Award Winner Nena Pidskalny (Q&A)
What career advice would you give your younger self?
Embrace discomfort! Take risks, make mistakes and explore new things. The best opportunities often arise from stepping outside your comfort zone. Also, remember the journey is the destination. Find great people to work with, learn from them and don’t sweat the small stuff. Have fun and enjoy what you do!
Kim Lichtman
Job then: Marketing manager, bathroom tissue, Kruger Products
Job now: Marketing director, paper towels & napkins, Kruger Products
What has changed in your career since winning the Generation Next Award?
I have been fortunate to grow and develop within Kruger Products. Returning from maternity leave in 2022, I started a new role as director of marketing for our U.S. business, tasked with launching a regionally focused brand, White Cloud. I held that position until summer 2023, when I had an opportunity to move back to the Canadian marketing team, and into my current role, as the director of marketing for our paper towels business.
What future goals have you set for yourself?
I set high expectations for myself! I am hoping to continue to grow and develop in advanced leadership roles within Kruger Products when I return from my upcoming maternity leave. I am expecting my third child at the end of 2024 and I’m grateful for Kruger Products’ continued support in both my personal and professional development.
What career advice would you give your younger self?
Go slow to go fast. Don’t rush to get the next job title or promotion, soak in all the learnings. You are where you are meant to be!
Julie van Wyck
Job then: Chief of staff & head of corporate strategy & development, Sobeys
Job now: Vice-president, corporate strategy & development and chief of staff, Sobeys
What has changed in your career since winning the Generation Next Award?
I’ve continued to progress in my role and receive opportunities to support other areas of the business; for example, by establishing new strategic partnerships or developing strategies to enhance key growth pillars.
What future goals have you set for yourself?
In my career, I would like to continue advancing my learning and development and rounding out my skill set. This could be by progressing into new and larger roles at Sobeys and, in the near term, by continuing to grow and add value in my current position.
What career advice would you give your younger self?
Enjoy the role you’re in!
What was your toughest professional decision?
Leaving management consulting to pursue a career in grocery retail. I am very thankful for the skills I developed and individuals I met while in consulting; making the decision to move into the retail industry felt scary at the time, but I’m very glad with the decisions I’ve made and the path I’m on today.
Do you know a rising star in the grocery industry? Nominate by Sept. 13!
This article was first published in Canadian Grocer’s August issue.
