Whether they’re in big corporations or modest c-store chains, individuals who shine—for professional successes and civic contributions—also form the backbone of the convenience store industry. Once again, CSD and the Young Executives Organization (YEO) collaborated to honor this year’s crop of inspiring industry leaders.
A CSD Staff Report
IN THE LAST FEW years, Millennials more and more have been assuming leadership positions, or are being groomed to one day assume leadership positions. Either way, they are increasingly becoming the backbone of U.S. companies including convenience store chains.
As the c-store industry barrels through the first quarter of the 21st century, young leaders’ proven track records with measurable results now outweigh years of experience, especially at family-owned chains, where grooming talent is a must to stay successful. C-store professionals with a penchant for changing course and finding new ways to do old jobs better are helping carve the path the industry is taking.
In the last few years, the convenience channel has incurred a tidal wave of corporate churn—mergers and acquisitions—as many corporate executives cashed out, opening the doors for younger, talented and capable company members. As a result, their efforts and results are seen not only on store shelves, but in back offices, forecourts, foodservice programs and training regimens.
MAKING A MARK
The face of society is becoming younger, and older. The U.S. economy is a melding, global juggernaut, governmental rules that apply to businesses are more complex than ever before and social trends are moving at a speed not seen five years ago.
There are plenty of next-generation c-store leaders who have been groomed for success and understand that the business challenges they face today are significant. Most of those in this year’s class of 40 either are members of a family-owned onvenience chain or work for a family-operated convenience chain.
The young leaders profiled in the following pages are passionate about their jobs and the companies they keep. More often than not, the leaders profiled here are also involved in community groups, charitable organizations and educational pursuits.
Click HERE to view the PDF of the 40 Leaders 40 and Under.
If readers are interested in nominating their own emerging leaders for future recognition or to join the Young Executives Organization (YEO), they can contact CSD Editor and NAG Executive Director John Lofstock at [email protected].