2020 Star Women in Grocery winner Leslie Robb (Q&A)

Store level star

Leslie Robb
Store Manager
Safeway Kensington Calgary
Sobeys

How did you get into the grocery business?
I started in the grocery business when I was a high school student. At that time, I didn’t think I would still be with Safeway 43 years later, but I’ve had an amazing career along the way.

Proudest moment?
I have had many great experiences since those first days as a student, but my proudest moment was becoming a store manager in 2012.

What's your best quality as a manager?
I feel that my best quality as a manager is my ability to communicate with teammates and customers. I always take the time to listen carefully, and to ensure that the directions and advice I give are clear and thoughtful.

Career highlight/greatest achievements?
Winning the International Women’s Day Award in 2020 at Sobeys was a career highlight. It was amazing to be chosen from amongst so many incredible women store leaders that could have also been selected. It was very humbling to be counted amongst my talented teammates.

Biggest challenge faced in your career? And how did you overcome that challenge?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced in my career is being a woman in a male-dominated field. I have overcome some of the challenges through business excellence and a passion for my teammates and community. This has given me so much strength to handle anything that comes my way. The tough times also taught me patience and that I can get anyplace I want, because I know I can do it.

What do you like most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the people I work with and the customers I engage with everyday. Each day is different and there is never a dull moment. In fact, I welcome the challenges that come my way! Plus I get to make a difference in some one’s life by doing my job in the best way possible and leading by example.

Click here for the full list of 2020 Star Women in Grocery award winners.