The Women Grocers of America (WGA) recently presented the Woman of the Year Award to Jennifer Graff of Columbiana Foods/Giant Eagle. Graff began her career in the grocery industry when she was 17 and currently holds the position of perishable director.
“For 30 years, Jennifer has been a tremendous leader in the grocery industry, helping peers and many next generation leaders,” said Greg Ferrara, National Grocers Association (NGA) president and CEO. “Jennifer’s passion and dedication are evident in everything she does and she exemplifies what this award is all about.”
Graff began her career in the grocery industry as a cashier, eventually making her way to the deli department in 1991. In 1992, she moved to the bakery department and became an expert cake decorator, alongside her twin sister Christina. Graff moved to the floral department in 1996 as manager. In 2013, she joined Columbiana Foods executive staff as perishable director of deli, prepared foods, in-store Starbucks and floral. In this role, she supervises merchandising, sales, reducing shrink, recruiting, training and team leader development.
The Woman of the Year Award recipient exemplifies the true characteristics of a leader with passion for the independent grocery industry. Recipients are strategic thinkers, standout representatives within their company or organization and have the perseverance to face almost any challenge presented to them.
WGA is the sole organization representing female grocers and other women affiliated with the independent food industry. WGA specifically serves as NGA’s career development network for active female professionals as well as students interested in pursuing independent retail grocery careers.
