2026 Star Women in Convenience winner: Elaine McKay
Elaine McKay
Head of corporate affairs and communications
JTI-Macdonald Corp.
What excites you most about the future of this channel?
The convenience channel is the heartbeat of communities. My store owner knows when I have run out of something, welcomes me with a smile and always asks how I am. In a world of instant answers and anonymous online shopping late at night, this simple interaction feels warm, authentic and sincere.
How do you define yourself as a leader?
My leadership style is best described through an African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” or as I have evolved it, “take someone with you.” This proverb beautifully captures the role of a leader as mentor and coach, believing in the potential of people and liberating it.
Biggest career challenge?
I have relocated twice in the course of my career, first to Switzerland and then to Canada. Each role presented different challenges with steep learning curves alongside the complexity of learning a new language and trying to find your tribe in a new environment and culture.
What’s the best career advice you’ve received?
The best advice was to lift as I rise. I have embraced this advice in every aspect of my life: the way I lead, the way I serve and the way I mother my beautiful children.
Nomination highlights
Whether speaking on stage at industry events, mentoring emerging leaders, or advocating for important social causes, Elaine McKay consistently uses her voice to elevate others. She is a standout winner for her powerful leadership, mentorship and lasting influence on women across the industry. Through her authenticity, compassion and ability to connect with people, she has inspired countless individuals to believe in their own potential. Her influence spans corporate communications, executive messaging, stakeholder management, public policy and corporate reputation strategy. She has also been a passionate advocate for child labour awareness, HIV/AIDS initiatives, diversity and inclusion and human rights programs. Through her work and public speaking engagements at industry conferences and events, she has become a trusted and respected voice within the convenience industry. Known for her calm, confident presence and powerful storytelling, she is frequently sought out for guidance and mentorship, particularly by women looking for leadership inspiration. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she remains deeply committed to supporting causes focused on children’s education, poverty alleviation and community impact.
Click here for a full list of the 2026 Star Women in Convenience winners
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