2023 Future Leaders in Convenience: PRIYA SELVANAYAGAM

Beginning her career at Loblaws as part of Grad Program, Priya Selvanayagam gained knowledge and expertise within category management before moving to foodservice. When she joined 7-Eleven Canada to lead its private brand portfolio, it was during a time of volatility and supply challenges—and Selvanayagam met challenges head-on, strengthening relationships with vendors to enhance the line.

“This business can only operate through partnerships, and this is something I value,” she says.

“Whether they are the ones built within the organization or outside with our vendors, building relationships creates a better path to success collectively while always keeping the evolving customer in mind.”

Selvanayagam says the experience she gained from working in various segments helped shape her path and process to succeed in her current role.

“Developing the ability to lead and make decisions that influence how to strategically maneuver through the evolving changes of our customers and the market in general was my greatest win,” she says.

Selvanayagam says she chose to join 7-Eleven Canada because of its values related to inclusivity, community and sustainability.

“As a woman of colour these are all important factors for me. An organization that cares about sustainability, community and DEI is a company I want to stand behind,” she says.

“My biggest challenge was moving through the barriers of stigma—age, colour or gender—to have those around me form their opinions based on my work and experience. This couldn’t be done alone, so I reached out to people for support to be my advocates and sponsors and to guide me through my career path.”

Click here for a full list of the Future Leaders in Convenience + Car Wash winners