2023 Star Women in Convenience winner: Karen Allen

Convenience retail enablement manager

Shell Canada

How did you get into this business? 

My experience in retail sales and management prompted me to apply for a position with a convenience store chain, and since then I have embraced the fast-paced ever-changing convenience retail industry. 

What do you like most about your job?

My current role has enabled me to broaden my knowledge and skill set by working with diverse teams across the organization. Every day brings a new learning opportunity, which keeps it interesting and fun.

What work-related accomplishment are you most proud of during the last 12-18 months?

I am the recipient of the Mobility Global NFR Alliance and Commercial Award 2023.

What's the best advice you ever received?

Treat others as you wish to be treated. Respect is earned, not given.

What was the biggest challenge of your career?

At the start of the pandemic, it was often challenging to maintain a healthy work and life balance. Ensuring care and connectivity with the team in a virtual environment also proved to be challenging at times.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

Creating solutions for a seamless customer experience and that involves understanding our constantly changing consumer’s behaviour and shopping needs while keeping on top of the latest trends.