In a recent episode of the TWIG Podcast, Lynette Ackley, the 2024 Top Women in Grocery Trailblazer award recipient and group vice president of health and beauty at Meijer, shared insights about mentorship and collaboration within the grocery retail sector. Lynette’s reflections come at a time when the importance of female leadership and supportive corporate culture is more evident than ever.
Lynette highlighted that mentorship has deep roots at Meijer, tracing back to its founding family. This unique culture fosters an environment where female leadership is encouraged from the very start. “I think it’s truly remarkable that mentorship, especially female leadership, starts from the beginning with our founding family, Hendrik Meijer and his wife,” she noted. “Their involvement has created a legacy that is still present today. Even after 90 years, you can see the family in the business every day.”
The company’s commitment to mentoring includes its efforts to onboard local and diverse suppliers, ensuring they understand the ins and outs of retail necessities like shipping, labeling, and regulations. Lynette explained, “We want to help lift up the people in the communities.” This initiative not only strengthens local partnerships but also contributes to building a more inclusive grocery landscape.
Reflecting on her own journey, Lynette emphasized the impact that mentorship has had on her career. “I don’t think any of us could be in the roles we are today without the support of others,” she remarked, underlining the role of camaraderie and collaboration in professional growth. Her experiences attest to the value of having pivotal mentors to provide guidance throughout one’s career. “I have been fortunate to have memorable mentors who helped me reach the next level.”
Recognizing that leadership is a shared endeavor, Lynette stated, “Blazing trails is not just something you do alone; it’s something you do with others.” She views her Trailblazer award, which she will officially receive during Progressive Grocer’s TWIG Gala in Orlando, as a team achievement, rather than an individual accolade. “I’m happy to represent Meijer, but this award is for all of us and my team,” she affirmed.
As the grocery sector continues to evolve, the importance of mentorship, particularly for women in roles traditionally dominated by men, cannot be overstated. The TWIG Podcast serves as a vital platform for discussing these necessary transformations, highlighting how the grocery industry can create pathways for future female leaders.
In this competitive landscape, Meijer’s approach to nurturing talent through mentorship can serve as a model for other organizations. By prioritizing shared growth and support, companies can create environments that foster innovation, inclusivity, and ultimately, long-term success.
For those eager to explore further, listeners can tune into the TWIG Podcast, which spotlights trends, issues, and interests crucial to advancing women in grocery retail. The conversations not only inspire but also provide practical insights that can empower current and future leaders in the industry.
In summary, Lynette Ackley’s perspective on mentorship and collaboration sheds light on the integral role of shared goals in leadership. As grocery retail continues to face new challenges and opportunities, the experiences of trailblazers like Lynette provide a guiding light for the industry to follow.
