2022 Star Women in Convenience winner: Suzanne Poirier

Vice-president, global finance and supply chain optimization

Alimentation Couche-Tard

 

How did you get into this industry?

I was always attracted to the industry since it’s an essential service to the population. It also encompasses many different aspects such as sales and services, marketing, distribution, etc. After obtaining my CPA certification, I joined a major grocery retailer and truly enjoyed the industry since I found it very dynamic.

Favourite thing about your job?

I enjoy my role in operations excellence serving the different business units and making things easier for our teams and customers. I also enjoy helping and working with the other teams in operations and making a difference.

Biggest challenge?

Gaining my customer's trust was not a given, especially at the start of my career. Due to hard work, my knowledge, and my leadership style, I won them all over!

Best advice received?

To believe in myself. At the start of my career, one boss told me I was at a crossroads: I could either continue working and doing my job or "jump the wall," take on more responsibilities, and lead groups to make an even more significant impact.  

Career highlight?

I’ve had many employees tell me how I made a significant difference in their lives by believing in them. I love to see them grow and leverage their strength.

What are you most proud of? 

All the work we have done on some high-priority projects during the pandemic. We worked remotely, but that didn't impact our collaboration and engagement.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

At Circle K, we want to make our customers' lives a little easier every day. Achieving this with the ever-changing landscape is super exciting. Tackling challenges daily makes every day a new day and an exciting one!

How do you define yourself as a leader?

I am authentic and passionate about my work and the people around me, and I believe that it shows. I am goal-driven, leading by example, and I empower my team to participate and share ideas in a fun environment.

Other thoughts?

I was very fortunate in my career to have worked in different fields such as accounting, internal audit, supply chain, operations, and sales and marketing. Changing environments, learning the business, and stepping out of your comfort zone means continuously developing. I encourage everyone never to stop learning.