How did you get your start in the produce industry?
I haven’t directly worked in produce, but I spent almost 30 years in the beverage industry. My interest in working with produce and fresh suppliers has been in my role with the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC), which I joined in 2007. Many of our leaders in retail and wholesale have had successful careers in produce. As the emphasis on fresh food continues to grow and be a larger point of differentiation, the WAFC is seeking to incorporate producers and suppliers at our annual convention to grow this business for all.
What roles have you held during your career?
Director of trade development at Dr. Pepper, VP of retail development at Coca-Cola, and then my own consulting firm (Christianson West), and now COO at WAFC.
How would you describe your current role?
As COO, I support our mission at WAFC: advancing the food industry through education and leadership. Since 1958, WAFC has provided accredited advanced education to food industry employees at the University of Southern California and community colleges throughout the western United States. We have more than 7,950 graduates of our programs, and I hope to be a part of continuing that work.
What do you hope to accomplish/contribute through that role?
Educating servant leaders to develop colleagues and advance the food industry to heights not imagined today.
What are some industry organizations, boards, volunteer groups or projects you’ve been involved with?
The Illuminators, City of Hope’s “Kids4Hope,” Network of Executive Women, California Growers Association Education Foundation, and Combined Food Sales of Southern California.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
Being selected for the role I have today with the WAFC.
What does leadership mean to you?
Inspiring others to achieve their goals.
Who are some of your industry mentors or people who have had a significant role in your career and professional growth?
My husband, Paul, who I lost in February to COVID-19. He was my greatest mentor, advocate and coach for more 36 years.
I am also fortunate to have such an active group of industry leaders on the board of the WAFC; each of them is a mentor and educator to me.
What’s a little-known or fun about you?
I was painfully shy as a child.
What’s your favorite efficiency hack?
H.A.L.T.: If you’re hungry, angry, lonely or tired, call a halt. Get something to eat, take a walk, call a friend, get some rest.
If you had to pick one fruit or vegetable to eat every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Blueberries.
