In an industry historically dominated by male leadership, a remarkable transformation is unfolding as women step into pivotal roles within the convenience-store (C-store) sector, driving innovation and strategic growth with unparalleled vision. Their presence is not just a statistic but a powerful force reshaping corporate cultures, operational strategies, and customer experiences across retail, supplier, and consulting domains. From overseeing vast networks of stores to pioneering technology solutions, these leaders are breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for excellence. This shift reflects a broader movement toward diversity and inclusion, where companies recognize the value of varied perspectives at the executive level. As the industry evolves, the contributions of these trailblazers offer a glimpse into a future where gender equity becomes a cornerstone of success, inspiring further change and progress.
Breaking Barriers in Executive Roles
Pioneering Operational Leadership
The ascent of women into high-ranking operational roles within the C-store industry marks a significant departure from traditional norms, showcasing their ability to manage complex networks with finesse. Take Ashley Englefield DeWitt, recently named president of Englefield Retail, based in Heath, Ohio, under Englefield Inc. She now oversees 116 Duchess Convenience Stores alongside other food-related ventures, continuing a family legacy that spans over six decades. Her leadership emphasizes not only operational efficiency but also a deep-rooted commitment to heritage, blending tradition with modern retail strategies. This appointment highlights how women are entrusted with steering large-scale operations, ensuring that customer needs and business goals align seamlessly. Their influence extends beyond mere numbers, fostering environments where innovation in store management and service delivery becomes a priority, setting a precedent for others in similar roles to follow with confidence.
Another dimension of operational leadership comes from the strategic vision women bring to brand management, enhancing market presence in competitive landscapes. Beth Turenne, the new vice president of brand management at EG America in Westborough, Massachusetts, exemplifies this trend. With a robust background at Dunkin’, Turenne is poised to strengthen the company’s identity as a top-tier C-store chain. Her enthusiasm for joining a dynamic team focused on fueling America underscores a dedication to aligning brand values with consumer expectations. This role is critical as companies strive to differentiate themselves in a crowded market, and women like Turenne are instrumental in crafting narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Their ability to merge past experience with forward-thinking approaches ensures that brands remain relevant, adaptable, and customer-centric in an ever-changing retail environment.
Driving Strategic Growth
Beyond operations, women are also shaping the strategic direction of C-store companies, focusing on long-term growth and sustainability through innovative thinking. Their roles often involve navigating complex challenges, from market expansion to adapting to consumer trends, with a keen eye on profitability. Leaders in these positions are not just maintaining the status quo but actively redefining it by introducing fresh ideas and perspectives. Their contributions often lead to transformative changes, such as revamping supply chains or enhancing store layouts for better customer flow. This strategic oversight is crucial in an industry where competition is fierce, and staying ahead requires constant evolution. Women in these roles demonstrate a unique blend of analytical prowess and creative problem-solving, ensuring their organizations are well-positioned for future success.
Moreover, the impact of strategic leadership by women is evident in how they champion inclusivity and diversity as core business values, influencing company culture at every level. By prioritizing equitable practices, they create workplaces that attract top talent and foster loyalty among employees. This approach not only boosts morale but also enhances decision-making through diverse viewpoints, leading to more robust business strategies. Their leadership often extends to mentoring the next generation, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to tackle industry challenges. As they shape policies and initiatives that prioritize both growth and social responsibility, these leaders are redefining success metrics in the C-store sector. Their work signals a shift toward a more balanced and forward-thinking industry, where strategic planning is as much about people as it is about profits.
Innovating Across Diverse Sectors
Transforming Technology and HR Landscapes
On the supplier side, women are making significant strides in technology leadership, a domain increasingly vital to the C-store industry’s evolution. Dawn-Marie Hutchinson, appointed as senior vice president and chief information officer at Reynolds American Inc. in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is at the forefront of this change. Her responsibilities include leading technology strategy, digital workplace initiatives, and cybersecurity measures, reflecting the critical role of tech in modern business operations. Hutchinson’s work ensures that traditional industries keep pace with digital transformation, safeguarding data while enhancing efficiency. Her leadership underscores a growing recognition of technology as a competitive advantage, where women are pivotal in bridging the gap between legacy systems and cutting-edge solutions, driving progress with a focus on security and innovation.
Similarly, advancements in human resources leadership are being propelled by women who bring transformative approaches to talent management and organizational development. Natalie Rothman, the new chief human resources officer at The Hershey Co. in Hershey, Pennsylvania, exemplifies this with her expertise in modernizing operations through automation and AI tools. Her role involves overseeing global HR functions, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to meet future challenges. Rothman’s background at Inspire Brands equips her to implement systems that streamline processes while maintaining a human touch in employee engagement. This balance is essential in fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability, particularly in industries tied to consumer goods. Women like Rothman are reshaping how companies view talent as a strategic asset, prioritizing both technological integration and employee well-being.
Revolutionizing Foodservice and Consulting
In the consulting arena, women are driving innovation by addressing niche areas like foodservice, which is becoming a high-margin growth sector for C-store retailers. Mendy Meriwether, a seasoned professional, has joined NexChapter, a Des Moines, Iowa-based firm, as vice president of its foodservice practice. Her focus is on developing menu strategies and innovation processes that transform food offerings into key differentiators for retailers. Drawing on past leadership roles at Wawa and EG America, Meriwether brings a wealth of experience in turning concepts into actionable results. Her work is pivotal as C-stores increasingly compete with quick-service restaurants, requiring creative solutions to attract and retain customers. This expertise not only boosts revenue but also redefines the role of convenience stores in the broader food landscape.
Furthermore, the influence of women in consulting extends to shaping broader industry trends through strategic guidance and thought leadership. Leaders like Meriwether are instrumental in helping retailers navigate complex challenges, from supply chain disruptions to evolving consumer preferences. Their insights often lead to partnerships and collaborations that enhance operational capabilities across the board. By focusing on data-driven strategies and customer-centric innovations, they enable companies to stay agile in a dynamic market. The recognition of their contributions, as voiced by industry peers, highlights confidence in their ability to effect meaningful change. Reflecting on their impact, it’s clear that these women play a crucial role in laying the groundwork for a more innovative and responsive C-store sector, inspiring continued progress in the years ahead.
Reflecting on a Legacy of Change
Looking back, the remarkable strides made by women leaders in the C-store industry have carved a path for future generations, demonstrating that diversity at the executive level is not just beneficial but essential. Their achievements in operational, technological, strategic, and consulting roles have redefined industry standards, proving that varied perspectives fuel innovation. As their influence ripples through retail chains, supplier networks, and beyond, it becomes evident that their contributions are instrumental in building a more inclusive and dynamic sector. Moving forward, companies should continue to prioritize equitable hiring practices and mentorship programs to sustain this momentum. Investing in leadership development for underrepresented groups will ensure that the legacy of these pioneers endures, fostering an environment where talent and vision, regardless of gender, drive the industry toward new heights of success.
