Where are they now? Generation Next winner Mark Condoluci

Canadian Grocer’s Generation Next awards debuted in 2011 to honour the grocery industry’s rising stars (under age 40). We recently caught up with a few past winners (check out our August issue for more!) to find out how their careers have been shaping up—including Mark Condoluci, who won the award in 2019. Here’s what he had to say:

Job then: Category director, No Frills (Loblaw)

Job now: Procurement category director, Loblaw

What has changed in your career since 2019, when you won a GenNext Award?

I moved from category director of No Frills produce merchandising to our produce procurement team at Loblaw. I’m now procuring berries, pomegranates and cranberries for the enterprise.

What is your biggest career highlight?

Being chosen for the GenNext Award was one of my largest highlights, along with being selected to represent Loblaws at CPMA’s Passion for Produce program in 2014. There was a great mentorship piece where we had one-on-one conversations with leaders in the produce industry. This was a huge opportunity for me as it helped set the foundation I needed to continue to grow, gain knowledge, learn how to network more effectively, and pick the brains of leaders to learn what has worked well for them. Ultimately, it gave me the confidence that I can one day be a leader in the industry.

Can you share a career lesson you’ve learned?

You’re always selling and building your brand no matter what you’re doing. Whether you’re on a conference call, store tour or even just having a coffee with a colleague, you’re always building on who you are and what you represent. So, it’s best to be authentic!

Do you know a rising star in the grocery industry? Nominate them now for this year’s Generation Next Awards. It’s quick and easy, but don’t delay! The deadline to enter/nominate is September 16.