2025 Star Women in Convenience winner: Sarah Haris

Sarah Haris     

Key Account Associate             

Imperial Tobacco Canada | BAT         

How did you get into this business?

I've always been passionate about marketing and its power to influence behavior and create meaningful connections. What drew me in initially was the idea of making a real difference in people's lives—through storytelling, innovation, and the way commerce can connect and uplift communities. Over time, I realized that marketing isn't just about selling products; it's about building relationships, understanding people, and crafting strategies that resonate on a deeper level. It's a unique intersection of creativity, service, and business strategy, and that blend is what continues to inspire and motivate me every day.

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

Over the past year, I’ve been particularly proud of my role in supporting the integration of digital touchpoints within our customer engagement strategy. I worked closely with our digital teams to help enhance communication channels, improve customer engagement, and support key account initiatives. These efforts have strengthened our relationships with key customers and supported the overall growth of those accounts. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how behind-the-scenes collaboration can translate into real, measurable business impact.

What do you like most about your job?

What I enjoy most about my job is the variety and constant evolution—no two days are ever the same. The fast pace keeps things exciting, and I thrive in environments where quick thinking and creative problem-solving are essential. I’m continually learning, adapting, and growing, which makes the work both challenging and deeply rewarding.

What was the biggest challenge of your career?

One of my biggest challenges was stepping away from the workforce to raise my children, then returning after a six-year gap. Re-entering brought a wave of imposter syndrome, but it also revealed how much I had grown. Raising twins and managing a household sharpened my adaptability, communication, networking and leadership—skills that seamlessly transferred to my career. Relaunching with ITL in Canada was a pivotal moment, and I’m grateful they recognized my potential. That transition demanded resilience, courage, and a renewed sense of self—ultimately making me a stronger, more grounded professional.

What's the best advice you ever received?

“You can have it all—just not all at once.” That simple yet powerful advice helped me embrace the different seasons of life and career without guilt. It taught me to set realistic expectations, be patient with my journey, and stay grounded in what matters most at any given time. It also shaped my leadership style—reminding me to approach others with empathy, appreciate diverse experiences, and lead with both perspective and compassion.

What's your career highlight/biggest achievement?

Being named a Shining Star in Women in Convenience is most definitely a proud and validating moment—it recognized not just my work, but the journey and dedication behind it. One particularly memorable milestone was being invited by BAT’s MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region to share my journey with over 100+ women—speaking about how I balance professional ambition with personal priorities. That experience reminded me of the importance of authenticity, and how powerful it can be to share our stories and lift each other up.

What excites you most about the future of this channel?

The way convenience retail is evolving to meet consumer expectations is really exciting—especially the blending of tech, personalization, and community-focused service.

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

I’m particularly interested in how evolving consumer expectations are reshaping the convenience sector. Customers are increasingly looking for not just speed, but also meaningful value—whether that’s through healthier product offerings, sustainable packaging, or locally sourced items. I believe the businesses that will thrive are the ones that can blend convenience with purpose. In addition, I’m watching how digital loyalty programs and localized marketing strategies are becoming more sophisticated, using data to create truly personalized experiences. Over the next five years, I see the convenience channel becoming more community-focused and experience-driven, not just transactional.