2024 Star Women in Convenience winner: Tracy Whalen

Manager, operations & partner relations (Express)

Parkland Corporation | M&M Food Market

How did you get into this business?

I have a long history with M&M Food Market in their traditional retail stores—when the Express division was created, I was very excited about the opportunity to join the team and be able to bring the M&M Food Market brand of high-quality frozen food to customers shopping in convenience locations.

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

The accomplishment I am most proud of is working alongside the category planning team to optimize and execute product selection in over 2,400 locations and with more than 60 different partners. We recognize customers need access to the right products to meet their convenience needs in various locations.

What do you like most about your job?

What I like the most about my job is the people. I love the daily collaboration with both the Express and extended team members, as well as being able to work closely with Express partners helping to provide frozen food solutions to their customers. The relationships I have been fortunate to build are everlasting.

What’s the best advice you ever received?

Keep pushing yourself outside your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to not always succeed—this is how you learn and grow.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

What excites me the most for the future of convenience is that it is ever changing, and you need to be constantly evolving to meet the customers’ needs.

How do you define yourself as a leader?

I have been fortunate to have mentors that have demonstrated the leadership qualities I want to emulate. I define myself as a leader by treating everyone with respect, leading by example, and being an active listener.