Where are they now? Catching up with 2020 Generation Next winner Alan Kaarsemaker

 

Since receiving the Generation Next Award in 2020, I've been fortunate to take on several new opportunities across the business. After serving as store manager at Save-On-Foods Langley-downtown, I moved to Save-On-Foods Chilliwack, where I had the privilege of working alongside an incredible team. Together, we navigated a challenging period that included the Fraser Valley flooding in 2021, and the store was later recognized as Store of the Year.

In June 2023, I transitioned into a regional director role supporting stores across the Kootenay and Cariboo regions of B.C. I subsequently had the opportunity to support teams in Surrey, New Westminster, Delta and White Rock before moving to a new region supporting our teams in the Fraser Valley. Earlier this year, I joined the merchandising side of the business as director of produce. Each role has provided valuable learning experiences and the chance to work with talented people who have helped shape my career along the way.

 

Earlier in my career, I measured success through the execution of day-to-day priorities and achieving our store-level goals. I also took great pride in seeing team members grow and advance in their careers. Today, I still value those things, but my perspective has broadened. I spend more time thinking about how we can improve the customer experience, elevate produce quality and support the long-term success of the business. No matter the role, supporting and developing our people is still one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

 

What keeps me motivated is that no two days are ever the same. There is always a new challenge to tackle or an opportunity to learn, especially in a category as dynamic as produce. My family also constantly inspires me to improve, strive for more and work hard. 

 

I'd tell my younger self to ask more questions and seek out mentors earlier. Looking back, some of my greatest growth came from learning from others who were willing to share their experiences and perspectives.