The Next Generation – Jr. Board Member Interview

WISE:  Please give us some background on your experience prior to working in your current role.

JANA:  I’ve been in the CPG space (consumer packaged goods) for the entirety of my professional career. I started working at Nestle USA out of college in various sales and category roles, and later moved to another manufacturing company to work on the Sam’s Club account in Bentonville, AR where I reside today.

WISE:  What has been your most challenging part of your time working in your current role?

JANA:  I’m relatively new to the private label space so I’ve been trying to learn and absorb as much as possible while also managing my day-to-day tasks. Fortunately, everyone at Schreiber is very willing to teach and provide guidance which is a huge help.

WISE:  What has been the most rewarding part of your time working in your current role?

JANA:  Launching new items to market is always a fun experience. I really enjoy working cross functionally with other teams within Schreiber the customer to create concepts and see them through from ideation to final product on shelf.

WISE:  What got you interested in joining the WISE organization?

JANA:  I’m a big advocate for community and relationship building. So, when I had an opportunity to join a WISE mentoring circle last fall, I jumped at the opportunity. I found a lot of value in those virtual sessions where I was able to come together with other women in my field to discuss and reflect on our lived experiences in the store brands space. I also feel that being a part of a community and organization like WISE is a helpful reminder to look beyond what’s happening in my day-to-day life and get to know people that I may not have met otherwise. Beyond discussing the selected monthly mentor circle topics as a group, we also were able to take time to celebrate the personal milestones in each other’s lives. Overall, it was a extremely valuable experience.

WISE:  What do you think could be the future of WISE?

JANA:  The sky is the limit! I truly believe that. There's still so much opportunity to see more women ascend the ranks as leaders in the CPG space and there’s an opportunity for WISE to play a part in the development of women professionals as well as the development of those that advocate for the advancement of women leaders.

WISE:  How would you sum up your experience in this industry, and what advice would you give to those considering joining this industry?

JANA:  My time in CPG has been an unpredictable yet wonderful journey. I’ve moved cross country numerous times for different opportunities which has resulted in a diverse breadth of experiences both in my professional and personal life and I’m grateful for all the twists & turns. My one piece of advice is to say yes to new opportunities. I moved Northwest Arkansas for a role thinking I would be here for 1 year max…that was over 4 years ago! The opportunities and experiences that have followed from my saying yes to that first role in NWA have been incredible.

WISE:  What are you most excited about contributing to WISE while on the Junior board?

JANA:  I’m super excited to join the amazing Partner Liaison committee where I’ll get to connect with awesome partners across WISE. I’m also excited to learn from others and dialogue about how we can help workplaces continue to embrace diversity as a strength.

WISE:  Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?

JANA:  When I’m not at work I can usually be found at my local horse stable, hiking somewhere, in Life Group, or hanging with my dog Ambassador Crewe (Crew for short).