2026 Star Women in Convenience winner: Sarah Trainor
Sarah Trainor
Operations manager, Proxi Network
Harnois Énergies
How did you get into this business?
I began more than 25 years ago as a cashier. Customer service gave me the opportunity to connect with people and, in small ways, improve their day with each interaction. My career progression has allowed me to carry that same people-focused mindset forward.
What are you most proud of?
The collaborative work done with our teams to streamline processes across the Atlantic network and launching our in-house Bon Appétit brand in the Maritimes—a great example of what can be achieved when teams are aligned.
What do you like most about your job?
Working with people to solve day-to-day operational challenges. I like being close enough to the business to truly understand what teams are dealing with and helping to simplify processes and remove obstacles so they can execute with confidence.
Biggest career challenge?
Operating through the pandemic. It reinforced the importance of adaptability, clear decision making and staying focused on people while navigating uncertainty.
What excites you most about the future?
We’re a channel that’s driven to adapt and try new things. I look forward to what comes next and the additional value we can bring to the lives of our customers.
How do you define yourself as a leader?
Practical and authentic. I make an effort to get to know each team member and understand what motivates and inspires them. I aim to create opportunities for people to succeed in roles where they can grow, contribute meaningfully and help the business move forward.
Nomination highlights
Sarah Trainor earns this recognition because of her exceptional commitment, motivating leadership style and measurable impact on both operations and people. She consistently demonstrates strong operational expertise, adaptability and a solution-oriented mindset, even in fast-paced and constantly evolving environments. Through her authenticity, discipline and dedication to excellence, she inspires confidence among colleagues and contributes meaningfully to team engagement and organizational success. Her commitment to continuous improvement, people development and operational performance truly reflects the values of the organization. Over the past year, she has played a key role in several high-impact initiatives across the Atlantic region, including successfully managing and supporting multiple large-scale renovation projects. She also led the acquisition integration, which demonstrates her ability to successfully manage operational integration, talent acquisition and organizational transition simultaneously. She ensures operational performance aligns with company strategy while supporting leaders and employees in the field through coaching, problem-solving and operational guidance.
Click here for a full list of the 2026 Star Women in Convenience winners
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