 Monica Garnes MONICA GARNES
PRESIDENT-ATLANTA DIVISION
THE KROGER CO.
When Garnes was tapped to lead Fry’s Food Stores in 2018, she became the first black president — male or female — in The Kroger Co.’s history, an accomplishment that remains a highlight of her 31-year career. But the achievement wasn’t significant only for Garnes. “It allowed others to see themselves reflected in leadership and to see what could be possible for them,” she explains.
Although Garnes was recently named president of the retailer’s Atlanta division, her philosophy remains the same: “Leadership isn’t about fitting a mold; it’s about showing up as your authentic self.” She adds, “When women are empowered to lead as who they truly are, they strengthen teams, elevate culture and accelerate the future of our industry.” In fact, Garnes is “immensely proud” to report that half of her “high performing” leadership team at Fry’s was made up of women.
In addition to inclusive leadership, Garnes is passionate about expanding access to education. “I currently serve on the Board of Trustees at the University of Rhode Island, my alma mater, because education is a gateway to opportunity, especially for women and people of color,” she explains. “I would not be where I am today without access to a strong education and the mentors who guided me.” But Garnes recognizes that not everyone is given the same opportunities. “My commitment is to ensure that students from all backgrounds have access to the same level of excellence, so they can reach heights they may have never imagined for themselves.”
Garnes’ promise to help those who came after her is reflected in her advice to other female executives to “treat leadership as service.” Beyond that, she suggests building a strong support network, staying curious and challenging assumptions, and always owning the value you bring. Remember, she says, “Your perspective drives progress.” |
 Anouck Gotlib ANOUCK GOTLIB
CEO
BELGIAN BOYS
When Gotlib and her husband moved to the states more than a decade ago, they were unable to find the authentic Belgian waffles they had enjoyed at home. So they decided to create their own, building an entirely new category in the refrigerated set along the way. Today, Belgian Boys is one of the fastest-growing emerging brands in the marketplace, currently available in more than 12,000 stores across the country.
“Seeing Belgian Boys grow from an idea into a brand on shelves nationwide is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “But what makes me most proud is the team behind it. Creating a culture where people feel trusted, challenged, supported and joyful while doing hard things feels like a real accomplishment. Growth is exciting, but building something that lasts — with integrity, resilience and heart — is what truly matters to me.”
Gotlib is committed to creating strong, values-driven communities. “I believe businesses have a responsibility to show up with humanity, especially in times of uncertainty or fear,” she explains. She adds, “Community is what sustains us, and I try to lead in a way that reflects that belief.”
Gotlib advises other aspiring female business leaders to trust their instincts — and forget about waiting until they think they’re ready. “You don’t need to fit a mold to lead well,” she explains. “Build your own style, ask for what you want, surround yourself with smart people who challenge and support you, and remember that ambition and humanity can co-exist beautifully.” |
 Izzy Laanaba IZZY LAANABA VP OF BRAND MANAGEMENT
GRAIN & DOUGH
THE MARZETTI CO.
As vp of brand management, Laanaba leads portfolio strategy across core and licensed brands. She counts re-energizing the New York Bakery brand and launching the first licensed brand in the frozen bread category — Texas Roadhouse Rolls — as two of her most meaningful professional achievements.
But Laanaba is equally proud of the work she’s done to support immigrant women in the business. “As an immigrant woman myself, I understand the unique challenges that often go unseen,” she explains. To ease the transition for people like herself, “I actively mentor and sponsor immigrant women and early-career professionals, helping them build confidence, sharpen their voice and see possibilities for themselves that may not yet feel obvious.” She adds, “I believe strongly that talent is universal but opportunity is not, and leaders have a responsibility to help close that gap.”
But promoting women, especially immigrant women, to leadership positions isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also good for business, continues Laanaba. “Diverse leadership teams make better decisions, foster innovation and create cultures where people are empowered to bring their full selves to work.” That sense of empowerment is key, she adds. “Preparation and performance matter, but so does confidence…When women step into leadership roles with conviction, they don’t just advance their own careers, they elevate teams, brands and the companies they lead.
“For younger generations, seeing women in leadership is even more powerful. Representation expands what feels possible,” says Laanaba. “It shows the next generation that there is no single path to success and that they, too, can aspire to lead, influence and shape the future with confidence.” |
 Amanda Daily AMANDA DAILY
VP-PREPARED FOODS
TYSON FOODS
Daily joined Tyson Foods in 2021, working her way up from team leader to senior director and, most recently, vice president of prepared foods. A new member of the NFRA Board of Directors, she’s proud of her career advancement, but the accomplishments she values most are the ones where business results align with developing people. “My greatest reward is building high-performing teams, guiding them through change and empowering others to step confidently into new roles,” Daily explains.
Not surprisingly, she’s passionate about mentorship, having seen firsthand the impact of investing in others’ growth. “Whether in the workplace or in the community, helping people build confidence and realize their potential is what motivates me,” says Daily. There are plenty of like-minded women in the industry, she adds, so those hoping to advance their careers should seek their guidance.
Preparing more women for leadership roles is essential because women bring diverse perspectives, experiences and problem-solving approaches that strengthen their companies, says Daily. “When women are represented at the highest levels, organizations become better-equipped to understand their customers, employees and communities,” she explains. “This representation…sends a powerful message to the next generation of women, which is important to me, personally, as I strive to show my daughter that she can achieve anything.” |
 Cammy Kromer CAMMY KROMER
VP OF SALES-NATIONAL ACCOUNTS
TROPICANA BRANDS GROUP
Kromer brings 25 years of CPG experience to her new position at Tropicana Brands Group, which led to an invitation to join the NFRA Board of Directors last year. It’s a fitting role for someone who recognizes the importance of asking questions and challenging the status quo. “Organizations evolve when people are willing to think differently and push beyond ‘that’s how we’ve always done it,'” she says.
While top performance ratings and “vendor of the year” awards are certainly gratifying, Kromer gets the most satisfaction from helping members of her team succeed. “There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone apply a new approach after seeking your guidance,” she explains, citing a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders — particularly female leaders. That’s the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
“I’m deeply passionate about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for young women to develop leadership skills and thrive in business,” says Kromer, who’s mentored many female leaders over the years in an effort to pay it forward. “I am who I am today because other women invested in me during my formative years through organizations such as Alpha Delta Pi and Junior League,” she says. “And I continue to give back by volunteering with those groups as well as Girl Talk Inc., Girl Scouts of Greater Appalachia and Junior Achievement.”
Why is it so important to have women in leadership roles? “Women represent a significant share of buying power in America, so our voices must be heard in the boardroom,” says Kromer. “So find advocates — leaders who believe in you and will champion your growth.” |
 IVONNE BALSINDE
GLOBAL VP-MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
MATOSANTOS INTERNATIONAL CORP.
After more than 15 years working across branded CPG, private label and international markets, Balsinde has amassed an entire portfolio of success stories. One of her favorites, however, is the work she’s done at Matosantos to help transform frozen fruit from a commodity into an innovation-led, consumer-centric category through the introduction of breakthrough formats and usage occasions.
Equally meaningful is the role she’s played in developing talent and leadership capability. “Seeing teams gain confidence, elevate their thinking and deliver results together is the most rewarding outcome of my career,” says Balsinde, who believes that while innovation changes categories, people are what sustains growth. “For me, success is not just what you deliver but what continues to grow once you’ve built the foundation and empowered others to lead,” she explains.
It comes as no surprise, then, that Balsinde is deeply committed to developing female leaders and investing in early-career talent through mentorship, coaching and handson leadership development. “Early in my career, I benefited from leaders who challenged me, trusted my judgment and encouraged me to step into opportunities before I felt fully ready,” she recalls. “Those experiences shaped my belief that confidence is often built through action, not permission — and they continue to guide me today. |
 Asun Romero ASUN ROMERO
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL SUPPLY
SUPERIOR FOODS INTERNATIONAL
As a member of the inaugural class of FoRWARD Award winners in 2023, Romero may look familiar to some readers. But her recent selection as the American Frozen Food Institute’s 2025- 2026 Woman of the Year makes her an automatic member of this year’s class as well.
The overwhelming choice of AFFI voters, Romero is credited with helping to bring an expanded range of fruits and vegetables from South America to American consumers. “Her strategic negotiation skills have not only advanced the interests of her company but have also set a standard for excellence within the industry,” says one nominator, who called out Romero’s ability to navigate complex global supply challenges while maintaining strong relationships with partners and manufacturers.
Romero joined Superior Foods at the age of 24 — when both she and the company were just starting out — and says helping it grow into a market leader while also raising three “empowered, caring and independent” daughters has been incredibly fulfilling. But building a network of global suppliers, many of whom have become lifelong friends, is perhaps her proudest achievement.
Those relationships are one reason Romero is so committed to responsible sourcing and sustainability. “The future of our industry depends on protecting growers, natural resources and local communities,” she explains.
“Long-term success only happens when the entire value chain is healthy and treated with respect. I also strongly believe in global trade — when it’s done responsibly. It makes our industry strong and diversified, supports farming communities around the world and reminds us that we are all connected,” she adds.
When Romero’s career began 34 years ago, leadership roles were dominated by men, and women were rarely in the room when big decisions were made. “Today, I am happy to see more women leading teams and shaping strategy. Even more encouraging is that conversations about inclusion are no longer optional; they’re now part of how successful companies think about growth and talent,” she says.
Noting the high level of emotional intelligence that many women bring to the table, Romero suggests aspiring female leaders lean in to relationship-building. “Build genuine connections,” she says. “Remember, people like to work with people they trust and respect.”
Asun Romero Andrea Hatziyannis Why is it so important to promote female leadership? “In the frozen and refrigerated foods industry — where women represent a significant portion of the shopper base — having women at the leadership table is not only equitable, it is a strategic advantage,” says Balsinde. Her advice to those hoping to earn a place at the table: own your expertise and results, build strong commercial acumen and seek opportunities that stretch you.
Finally, she says, “Lift others as you climb. When women lead with integrity, generosity and confidence, they create pathways for others to grow.” |
 Courtney Piper COURTNEY PIPER
VP OF SALES-CLUB, NATURAL & FROZEN
THE CAMPBELL’S CO.
After nearly a decade of leadership in the frozen food industry, Piper has racked up a lot of wins. Topping her list of professional achievements are leading a women’s mentoring group, serving as sales lead for a key acquisition, and launching a new, frozen-focused team that emphasizes collaboration but also celebrates the successes of individual team members.
“Watching them succeed by delivering on our aligned targets, supporting their personal and professional growth, and helping them develop into a team that trusts and relies on one another has been one of the highlights of my career,” she says.
Beyond the work she does with her team, Piper is focused on addressing food insecurity, which is also a priority for The Campbell’s Co. “Core to our Campbell’s values is ‘care,’ so our team members are encouraged to regularly seek out and participate in opportunities and initiatives that will make an impact in the communities we serve,” she explains.
Because women control a significant portion of buying power, Piper is a big believer in leadership teams that include a female perspective. For those hoping to fill those spots, she shares a piece of advice she’s found useful: “Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. To me, that means build your skills, build your network and build the relationships. As you do, you’ll create a path for the leader you want to be now and the leader you want to grow into in the future.” |
 Andrea Hatziyannis ANDREA HATZIYANNIS
SENIOR CATEGORY STRATEGY MANAGER-SPROUTS BRAND
SPROUTS FARMERS MARKET
Lauded by supplier partners as a forward-thinker whose fresh approach to new product development is helping to drive frozen food industry growth, Hatziyannis brings more than 20 years of industry experience to her role at Sprouts. But it was her early work at Stonyfield Organics that helped shape Hatziyannis’s passion for healthy eating and organic food.
Although she’s proud to have created what partners say are “industry leading relationships with the supplier community,” Hatziyannis calls her 2025 appointment to the USDA National Organic Standards Board her greatest professional achievement thus far. “I am beyond proud to serve the organic community and U.S. retailers in this capacity.” As a food scientist, she adds, “My professional mission statement is to bring people together through the shared love of food and curiosity about science.”
Hatziyannis is also a big proponent of female representation. “If women are 50% of the population, then they have 50% of the good ideas, and now more than ever, we should be entertaining as many of those as possible.” |
 Arin Simpson ARIN SIMPSON
VP OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
REALCOLD
“She exemplifies fearless, results-driven leadership.”
“A rare blend of operational rigor, commercial acumen and unwavering customer-centricity.”
“Absolutely instrumental to our growth and success.”
“The first person I call when we face a cold chain or operational challenge.”
“What customer-focused leadership truly looks like.”
That’s just a sampling of the comments we received about Simpson from both colleagues and clients supporting her selection as a FoRWARD Award winner. Clearly deserving of the honor, Simpson was recently promoted to vp of strategic partnerships at RealCold, which she joined in 2023 following its acquisition of Forte Frozen.
Given her role, it’s not surprising that Simpson gets the most satisfaction from the impactful partnerships she’s created by leading cross-functional teams. “Bringing operations, customer experience, finance and business development together…and watching teams align, execute, develop solutions and then celebrate the results is incredibly fulfilling, and it motivates me daily,” she says.
Outside the day-to-day, Simpson is passionate about mentorship and creating opportunities for other women in the cold chain space. “This is an industry where women are still underrepresented in operational and strategic roles, making mentorship both personal and essential,” she explains. “Seeing how someone’s confidence can grow in a single affirming moment reminds me how powerful encouragement can be and inspires me to help create those moments for others,” she adds.
Simpson believes women bring a powerful blend of perspective, emotional intelligence and strategic clarity to the workplace, making them a key part of any leadership team. But in order to be successful, they need to believe in their value, she says. Simpson also advises aspiring female execs to quantify their impact, seek out opportunities that broaden their reach and build meaningful relationships across functions. “But most importantly,” she says, “treat ‘no’ as information and not a verdict. A ‘no’ isn’t a closed door. It’s an invitation to negotiate, reposition and move to a ‘yes’ on a new path.” |
 Julie Smolyansky JULIE SMOLYANSKY
PRESIDENT & CEO
LIFEWAY FOODS
Although Smolyansky has been with Lifeway Foods officially since she was 20 years old, her experience in the food industry actually began much earlier. At 4 she was working in her mom’s deli; at 11 she started helping her dad after he launched Lifeway; and at 12, she was running in-store demos and staffing a booth at the Fancy Food Show.
Following her father’s sudden passing when she was 27, Smolyansky stepped into the role of CEO. “Since then, I’ve had the honor of growing the company he founded around a singular mission: bringing the benefits of kefir to as many people around the world as possible.”
As the driving force behind National Kefir Day, “I am especially proud of my role shepherding kefir from an unfamiliar niche product into the cultural and culinary zeitgeist,” she says, citing its appearance as both a question and an answer on Jeopardy! (It made the Wordle, too.) Smolyansky also authored “The Kefir Cookbook,” inspiring home cooks to incorporate kefir into their kitchens while also telling a broader story of immigration, entrepreneurship and the American dream.
“My grandmother was a survivor of Babi Yar, the largest pogrom of the Holocaust, where my great-grandparents were murdered,” she explains. “That history creates an obligation for me to repair the world in any way I can.” Through non-profit initiatives, advocacy and other means, Smolyansky has used her voice for more than three decades to combat antisemitism and — based on her own experience as a survivor of violence — violence against women and girls.
She’s also committed to “showing up for our communities” in times of need. From Ukrainian refugees to Californians displaced by wildfires to local food pantries, Lifeway has donated more than 8 million servings of kefir since its inception, says Smolyansky. “Ensuring access to wholesome, high quality, bioavailable protein and fermented dairy when people need it most is a responsibility I take seriously,” she says.
Smolyansky’s advice to aspiring leaders echoes that of other female execs. But instead of just mentors, she suggests seeking sponsors as well. “And as you rise, bring others with you,” she says. “When leadership becomes a pipeline rather than an exception, both businesses and communities thrive.” |
 Stephanie Schultz STEPHANIE SCHULTZ
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
BERNATELLO’S FOODS
Schultz’s interest in the frozen food industry was sparked by her training as a registered dietitian. “I’ve always been passionate about proactive health promotion, and I was drawn to the opportunity to influence health outcomes through product innovation and consumer education at scale,” she explains. After earning a master’s degree in management and leadership, she spent 15 years in retail grocery and industry associations before joining Bernatello’s.
As director of marketing, “One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been developing products and brands that help consumers feel good about what they’re eating, especially in categories that are ripe for innovation and evolution,” says Schultz, citing her work on the new Real Dough Pizza Co. brand is a career highlight. “As both a marketer and a registered dietitian who sits squarely in the target audience, serving as an authentic voice and advocate for the brand has been incredibly meaningful,” she says.
Outside the office, Schultz is passionate about service. During her career, she’s served on the leadership teams of three different non-profit boards and is the current board president of the Women’s Fund of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation, which works to create opportunities for women and girls.
A big proponent of developing the talents of others, Schultz believes professional success is measured not just by market share or business results but by shared growth. “When people are supported, challenged and developed, they grow. And when people grow, businesses follow,” she says. “Pouring time and energy into others is the most meaningful way I know to extend leadership beyond yourself.”
Schultz’s advice for women looking to advance their careers is to say yes to opportunities that stretch you, even if you don’t feel ready; network intentionally since relationships are the single most impactful driver of career growth; and lead before the title. “Some of the most influential leaders in any organization are informal leaders,” she explains. “Don’t wait for permission or a formal role to make an impact. |
 Sheila Ebanks SHEILA EBANKS
HEAD OF LARGE STORE-NORTH AMERICA OPERATING UNIT
THE COCA-COLA CO.
Ebanks has spent her 15+-year career pursuing knowledge, building successful teams, and advocating for women as a force for positive change capable of transforming companies and categories.
Her track record spans major route-to-market and operational transformation initiatives, building high-performing, cross-functional teams and embedding digital and e-commerce capabilities that sharpen the organization’s competitive edge.
Colleagues and industry peers view her as a thought leader and influencer, as reflected in her selection as a Future Leader for the Consumer Goods Program and her ongoing work with commercial research councils and advisory boards. Ebanks serves the wider industry through positions with the NFRA board of directors, FMI’s Growth Forum, the Coca-Cola Retailing Research Council and NextUp.
She is especially passionate about advancing women in leadership positions and championing rising talent. Ebanks believes women bring essential perspectives that broaden how organizations think, operate and solve problems, driving stronger performance in today’s fast-moving retail and CPG environment. Her advice to emerging women leaders is to own their expertise, be true to themselves, build networks and “lift as you climb” by actively supporting the next generation of female leaders. |
 Christine Bellamo CHRISTINE BELLAMO
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT SERVICES-DAIRY & FROZEN
DAYMON
Bellamo has built a career around proving that private brands can simultaneously drive growth, loyalty and meaningful differentiation for grocers. An entrepreneurial sales and marketing executive, she brings more than 35 years of experience in refrigerated and frozen foods across CPG and private brands to her current role.
As a member of the National and Frozen Foods Association’s (NFRA) board of directors, Bellamo’s leadership extends beyond Daymon’s walls. She’s also an advisory member of the NFRA Refrigerated Council and chair of the Private Brands Forum. Bellamo’s commitment to women in the industry is further exemplified by her contributions supporting the WISE (Women Impacting Storebrand Excellence) board of directors as a member of the events committee.
“When young women are encouraged to experiment with creative ideas and take calculated risks, they develop the courage to lead boldly and drive meaningful change. I encourage young leaders to make lifelong learning a priority by attending workshops, earning certifications and keeping up with industry trends,” says Bellamo.
She advises women in the industry to actively build a network of peers and mentors, stay true to themselves and willingly step outside their comfort zones. “Women need to be purpose-driven, authentic and act as their own advocates. By showing initiative and proving their value at work women can open doors for future opportunities,” she says. |
 Donna Yarbrough DONNA YARBROUGH
SENIOR CATEGORY SALES MANAGER
ASSOCIATED WHOLESALE GROCERS
Passion and authenticity are two words often overused in the grocery and CPG industry. However, they’re exactly the attributes peers and industry partners see when they interact with Yarbrough.
“My deepest passion is intrinsically linked to combating food insecurity, a crisis that strikes at the core of human dignity and opportunity right in our own neighborhoods. I am immensely proud to work for an organization like AWG, which is not merely a business, but a community institution entrenched in this fight,” she explains.
Yarbrough takes great pride in negotiating the lowest prices on products for the independent grocery retailers that AWG supplies, leveraging lean logistics and forward-thinking inventory management. These very same independents frequently serve underserved neighborhoods.
“This foundational work is then amplified by our organized efforts to coordinate donations and support local food banks, ensuring that nourishment reaches those in the most urgent need…Our core business model is a platform for profound community good,” she explains.
With a career of continued success as support, Yarbrough is an advocate for more women in leadership and management positions. “In the face of inevitable challenges and setbacks, it is essential to never give up and always have a positive attitude, using resilience and optimism as the powerful motivators that will ultimately turn ambition into achievement,” she says as encouragement. |
 Whitney Fortin WHITNEY FORTIN
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
HAPPY EGG CO.
Fortin is one of those fortunate individuals who has been able to combine her professional and personal passions — authentic marketing and transparent food systems — into earning a living.
She takes great satisfaction in learning Happy Egg’s business from the farm up, contributing to a company culture that empowers people to think differently and move quickly. “I’m especially proud of work that brings farmers, retailers and internal teams together around a shared goal: making food better and more responsible without losing sight of the people behind it,” says Fortin.
She says she was first drawn to the industry by a desire to help create transparent food systems that respect animals, meet consumers on their own terms and raise expectations around quality. “Consumers deserve to understand where their food comes from and to feel confident in the choices they’re making,” Fortin asserts. “When we get that right, we build trust, strengthen the category, and create lasting positive change.
” Recently appointed to the NFRA Board Council, Fortin is a forceful advocate for women in grocery retailing and CPG. “Women bring a valuable perspective, empathy and a deep understanding of consumers — especially in categories so closely tied to everyday life. Having women in leadership roles leads to better decisions, stronger teams and more resilient businesses. My advice to other women is to stay curious, remain hungry to grow and take action even when everything isn’t perfectly mapped out. Don’t wait to be invited,” she adds. “Raise your hand, build allies and remember that progress happens fastest when we move forward together.” |
 Marie Magbaleta-Sao MARIE MAGBALETA-SAO
SENIOR BUYER-REFRIGERATED FOODS
GROCERY OUTLET
Magbaleta-Sao began her career at Grocery Outlet 35 years ago as an assistant in the refrigerated foods group, eventually working her way up to senior buyer. Colleagues say she recognized early on that the company’s expanding wine and natural/organic assortment required a more elevated cheese offering, leading to the transformation of what was once a commodity focused business into a $50 million+ specialty cheese program.
“As the driving force behind our cheese and specialty cheese category, Marie spent decades building deep, trusted relationships with dairy partners, quickly leveling up her expertise to become a true cheese monger,” says a fellow executive. “She exemplifies the very best of Grocery Outlet and the grocery industry as a whole.”
In recognition of her efforts, Magbaleta-Sao received Grocery Outlet’s Jim Read Award, which is given each year to just two individuals who embody the company’s values and culture while also making a meaningful, measurable impact. But the accomplishment that gives Magbaleta-Sao the most satisfaction is the long-standing relationships she’s built with supplier partners. “Many of these partnerships span decades [and are] built on trust, collaboration and a desire to bring unique, high-quality products to our customers,” she says.
As someone who’s benefitted from several great mentors throughout her career, Magbaleta-Sao is committed to paying it forward. “Helping people grow, gain confidence and step into new roles is something I take very seriously as a leader,” she says. “I’m also passionate about expanding food access. Knowing that the work we do helps make quality food accessible to people at all income levels…is what continues to motivate me after 35 years in this industry.”
Magbaleta-Sao’s advice to other women in the industry is to trust your voice, speak up even when it feels uncomfortable and don’t wait until you feel fully ready. “As a second-generation Filipino immigrant, I was taught to be seen and not heard, to prioritize being polite and perfect rather than assertive and outspoken,” she says. “As a leader and as a mother of two daughters, I’ve been very intentional about doing things differently… Having a voice matters, you don’t have to be perfect to be credible, and failure is part of learning and growing.” |
 Cydney Pié CYDNEY PIÉ
KROGER OUR BRANDS PROJECT MANAGER
PL MARKETING
Pié has spent the past four years supporting the private label business at Kroger where she played a key role in the introduction of its crustless PB&J sandwiches. Despite the challenges associated with such a high visibility launch, “Seeing the product successfully brought to market was extremely fulfilling, and it highlighted the importance of cross-functional collaboration, detailed execution and strong supplier partnerships,” she says.
The best way to build those relationships is to take a genuine interest in colleagues and partners, continues Pié, citing the importance of connecting on a personal level. “Not only does it build trust…it makes collaboration more enjoyable and effective,” she says.
Pié’s advice to other women looking to advance their careers in the frozen and refrigerated food industry is to forge their own path based on their unique needs. “For the first 16 years, I worked part-time so I could focus on being the best mom I could to my two kids; they’re truly my pride and joy, and that time with them was priceless,” she explains. “I would encourage other women to give themselves permission to make choices that feel right for them and their families. There’s no single path to success, and prioritizing what matters most can make your journey even more meaningful.” |
 Katie Weber KATIE WEBER
SOURCING MANAGER-FROZEN
TOPCO
Weber has been with Topco for nearly 17 years — nine in the frozen food category — finding innovative ways for members to compete in an increasingly complex retail environment. Through COVER STORY Cydney Pié sourcing events, brand transitions, brand redesigns and new item launches, “I take great pride in working closely with suppliers to provide…exceptional product quality at competitive prices,” she says. However, continues Weber, after facing some historic headwinds during the past five years (COVID, avian flu, tariffs, etc.), she’s more convinced than ever that true partnership is the key to success, making relationship-building central to her professional philosophy.
Weber has had many stellar role models over the years and strives to emulate their commitment to excellence — and mentoring. Her advice to the next generation of female leaders is to stay engaged and curious. “I have found that asking questions often leads to better decision-making and collaboration,” she says. “Take the initiative and own your journey.” |
 Kate Landis KATE LANDIS
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
NFRA
“Every time I speak with Kate, I can’t help but get excited about the future of frozen and refrigerated foods,” wrote one supplier in support of Landis’s selection as a FoRWARD Award winner — a sentiment repeated by several others.
As senior director of marketing at the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA), Landis has been an integral contributor to a team that has modernized the organization and evolved Easy Home Meals into a true lifestyle brand. “Our work reflects how people actually shop, cook and live today. That has included elevating storytelling, grounding decisions in consumer research and strengthening the connection between insight, strategy and execution for members and consumers alike,” she says.
Landis is grateful for the education she’s received from those she’s come in contact with. “I’ve had the privilege of being surrounded by strong women leaders since the very beginning of my career, and it shaped my expectations of what leadership can — and should — look like. Seeing women lead with confidence, empathy and decisiveness made a lasting impression on me and reinforced the value of diverse perspectives at the table,” she explains. “Women in leadership don’t just change representation, they change how organizations think, operate, and grow.”
Landis’ advice for other women making their way in the industry: “Trust your instincts, claim your expertise, and don’t minimize your contributions,” she says. “You don’t need to fit a mold to lead effectively — you need to be clear, prepared, and willing to step forward even when it feels uncomfortable.” |
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