2024 Star Women in Convenience winner: Luisa Tuzi

Account manager   

Nestlé Canada Inc.

How did you get into this business? 

Starting my career within Nestlé’s supply chain provided me with valuable insights into the company’s operations. Working closely with the account management group, I quickly discovered my passion for creating value-added solutions for customers. 

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

I am proud of my contributions that led to Nestlé being recognized as the best in class by a key customer. As well, in 2023, I was recognized as a top performer within the total sales organization and, of course, I am honoured to be a 2024 Star Women in Convenience recipient.

What do you like most about your job?

I enjoy collaborating with customers on their specific initiatives and working towards a common goal to achieve mutual success. By fostering a strong partnership, together we work to create value added solutions that enhance the customer experience, build brand loyalty and drive growth.

What was the biggest challenge of your career?

Overcoming pandemic challenges was a significant hurdle in my career. It required careful consideration, strategic thinking and adaptability to make the best decisions for the business and accounts during this unprecedented time. The dynamic nature of the pandemic demanded quick responses and creative solutions to ensure operational continuity and maintain strong account relationships.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

Change is good. It’s essential for growth, progress, and personal and professional development. Stepping outside your comfort zone leads to significant progress and unlocks untapped potential. Embrace change for continuous improvement and greater success.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

The convenience and gas channel’s unwavering resilience and relentless pursuit of innovation, fuelled by dedicated operators and manufacturers, not only captivate shoppers but also ignite a sense of excitement within me. As the channel continues to evolve and adapt, a world of boundless opportunities unfolds before us. By conscientiously catering to the diverse needs of shoppers, encompassing energy requirements, seamless transactions, loyalty rewards, meal solutions, and an array of beer and wine choices, I am filled with confidence and enthusiasm for a future that brims with promise.

How do you define yourself as a leader?

I strive to be influential, to build team cohesion, and to be a positive force for change and forward momentum. I actively seek out avenues for improvement, embrace innovation wholeheartedly, and nurture a growth mindset within the team. By doing so, I aspire to create an environment that not only embraces change but propels us forward with unwavering momentum.