A veteran of the grocery industry for more than a quarter century, Kristin Popp previously served as Wisconsin-based Woodman’s Food Markets’ HR director before becoming EVP. In addition to those duties, Popp serves as president of Women Grocers of America, which operates under the NGA Foundation.
Popp shared her thoughts on leadership, management and getting started in the industry with NGA’s Independent Grocer magazine. The following are excerpts from her responses; you can read the full profile in IG’s premiere issue.
How did you get your start in the grocery industry?
I started as a means to get through college. I heard through friends that working at Woodman’s was a great job. So, I applied and was offered a position. At that time, there was a waiting list of applicants for positions, so I thought I was extremely fortunate to be offered one of the open spots. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the business and knowing what we do really makes a difference in the communities we are a part of. Learning the ins and outs of the grocery industry as well as everything and everyone it takes to make it operate and run smoothly – you really have no idea. Then, watching everything pull together to provide the service and the nutrition our guests are looking for is beyond rewarding. We are truly at the heart of our communities, and being a part of that motivates me to continue supporting our teams for success.
What are the key influences on your management style?
People. What our team needs and what encourages them to be their best selves and creating a thriving and supporting culture to allow us to be successful. Also, looking into the future in everything we do – how are we setting ourselves up for long-term success and not just looking at the present.
My management style has evolved over the years. I have learned that certain aspects of leadership often rise to the top and that really being authentic and empathetic is essential. I love seeing others thrive and succeed, and if I can support, inspire or guide them down the right path, I am an effective leader. I love to push our team and put the opportunities back to them to really challenge them to find the best paths forward in alignment with the overall company goals, then work together to achieve the best overall solution. This allows them to grow purposefully in their environments. I love to learn, so I ask a lot of questions to get others thinking in different ways. I also think understanding people, where they excel and what motivates them to help guide them in the right path to their own success, is so important and allows you to effectively communicate with others. Being vulnerable is a must as a leader, as is leading by example.
What advice would you give to someone just starting a career in the independent grocery industry?
Take advantage of all opportunities and ask lots of questions. Don’t shy away from putting yourself out there. There are no dumb questions, only opportunities, so lean into the uncomfortable and you will only grow. Find your person or people and absorb as much as you can. Challenge yourself and others. There are so many possibilities in the industry and so many willing to help in your success. It is what you make of it, but the sky really is the limit.
[RELATED: Executive Perspectives: Dan Funk]
