A Newfoundland grocery store manager took home the bread and butter of international awards in her industry last night during the Future Leaders Conference in St. Louis, Missouri.
Niki Scott, manager of the Sobeys store in Paradise, was named winner of the 2019 Food Marketing Institute (FMI) International Store Manager Award.
Scott was also awarded the People’s Pick Award after garnering the most votes in an online contest.
A news release states that Scott received 2,641 votes in a year that saw the total number of votes in the People’s Pick contest increase by 55 per cent.
Scott has been with Sobeys for 16 years and is described as a “shining example of dedication and commitment to her store, team and local community. She is widely recognized for creating a positive store experience for her customers and has actively championed nearly 30 events to benefit various causes in Paradise and surrounding communities, including a monthly seniors’ tea, cooking classes for Mount Pearl high school students, and several fundraising events for Nevaeh’s Lemonade Stand for pediatric cancer patients.”
Paul MacLeod, vice-president of Sobeys’ Atlantic operations, said Scott deserves the recognition.
“Her store leadership and keen eye for taking care of her employees, customers and community are second to none,” he said.
Peter Wilkins, assistant store manager at Paradise Sobeys, said Scott possesses great leadership qualities and leads by example.
“She treats everyone with respect while promoting a fun and productive workplace,“ he said. “Niki thrives on open communication and fosters an environment of continuous learning and development. Her drive and passion is infectious and she truly identifies with people because she cares about each and every one of them.”
The FMI Store Manager Awards are given to outstanding managers who generate sales growth, effectively communicate company and store goals and objectives, demonstrate team leadership in their store and company, and provide exceptional customer service through in-store programs and improved community relations.