2024 Star Women in Convenience winner: Gina Melao

Store manager  

Petro-Canada, a Suncor business

How did you get into this business?

Back in 2007, I called Georgetown, Ont., my home when Petro-Canada unveiled its groundbreaking new location. Ahead of its time, Petro-Canada introduced an integrated site that boasted cutting-edge features: the state-of-the-art Glide car wash, an iconic convenience store, premium fuelling options, and a PC-branded food offer complete with ample seating and even a drive-thru. I was there from day one, alongside Vinod Iddya, who was an associate trainer back then. Georgetown welcomed us with open arms, and from that moment on, there was no looking back.

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

We proudly received the prestigious PC President Award, a testament to our dedication and excellence. In addition, our car wash surpassed the million-dollar mark in sales and completed over 100 fulfillments, marking a significant milestone in our journey. However, what truly fills me with pride is our active involvement in community initiatives, from supporting the Georgetown Bread Basket to the Cancer Assistance Program and Gtown Hospice, we’re committed to making a positive impact where it matters most. Furthermore, our recent venture into Waterdown, Ont. with our new integrated site marks an exciting chapter. We’re currently focused on elevating it to the level of success we’ve achieved in Georgetown.

What do you like most about your job?

It’s truly a privilege to collaborate with such an exceptional team. Together, we dedicate ourselves to hard work, consistently pushing the boundaries of performance and striving to exceed our own expectations. What sets us apart is not only our commitment to excellence but also the genuine enjoyment we find in our work. Our environment buzzes with energy—we’re focused and driven, yet there’s always room for laughter and camaraderie. One of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing the joy on our customers’ faces when they step into our store. Let’s face it, winning and demonstrating competence are fulfilling, but what truly motivates me is the opportunity to connect with my team and create unforgettable experiences for our guests. That’s what gets me out of bed each day—the chance to craft extraordinary memories alongside my colleagues and customers alike.

What was the biggest challenge of your career?

Throughout my career, I’ve found that both the greatest satisfactions and the toughest challenges revolve around one central element: people. From the moment I set foot in the store, it’s like stepping into a revolving door where a diverse array of individuals pass through, each bringing with them their own set of expectations, challenges, fears, and joys. Balancing and exceeding these expectations is the essence of my role. However, perhaps the most daunting challenge I’ve faced was transitioning from Georgetown to Waterdown. Leaving behind years of hard work, goodwill, and relationships was no easy feat.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

'Life’s fairness can be questionable; it’s a reality we must accept.' There are moments when despite giving our all and having the purest intentions, outcomes may not align with our expectations. Yet, when a task holds significance, it’s imperative to pursue it, even in the face of adversity. Not every endeavour yields immediate recognition, but failure serves as a profound teacher. 

What’s your career highlight/biggest achievement?

In our 17-year journey, we’ve celebrated numerous milestones. Yet, my greatest satisfaction lies in witnessing the growth of new managers who start at our store, receive mentorship, and eventually launch their own ventures. It is immensely gratifying to see newcomers, including immigrants, begin their journey with us and evolve into thriving, impactful members of Canadian society. While accolades have come our way, our ultimate triumph is measured in our ability to lend a helping hand to those in need, empathize with their struggles, or simply bring joy to someone’s day.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

Over the past decade with Petro-Canada, we’ve experienced an extraordinary ascent across retail categories including QSR, car wash and gas. However, this is just the beginning. The potential for technological advancements is immense, particularly with the rapid development of AI. It’s poised to revolutionize data analysis, offering solutions for merchandising, sales, and profitability in unprecedented ways. I’m particularly thrilled about the forthcoming changes in the next decade. We may gradually witness a shift towards robotics and automation, reshaping how energy is generated, utilized and distributed. The landscape of energy is on the brink of a profound transformation.

What trends or innovations are keeping an eye on right now. Is there anything you think will shape the business in the next 5 years?

The next five to 10 years will be pivotal for our industry. While innovation may have progressed at a slower pace over the last 30 years, the advent of AI, GPU chips, and enhanced computational power has positioned us for exponential growth. We stand on the brink of a transformative period, with the potential to revolutionize our industry landscape.

How do you define yourself as a leader?

My leadership approach is centred on setting an example, inspiring, and guiding my team towards success. I’m not afraid to provide constructive feedback when needed, but I’m equally enthusiastic about celebrating achievements. In essence, I cultivate a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.