The Next Generation – Jr. Board Member Interview | Kristen Jones
In June’s WISE Jr. Board Member interview, we are featuring Kristen Jones, the Associate Business Development Manager for the Corporate Brands Division of Massimo Zanetti Beverage, USA. Kristen has been serving in this role since 2020; she previously served as the Marketing Coordinator on the Retail Brands side. She is currently responsible for the coordination of all new private label product launches and product redesigns, and she manages the division’s business-to-business advertising support and annual trade shows.
Kristen completed her bachelor’s degree at Old Dominion University. Outside of work, she is passionate about volunteering in her local community, serving on the board of Portsmouth Service League. She spends her extra time playing with her son, Charlie, and his puppy brother, Otis. They all love being outdoors, and they try to visit both the beach and the mountains as much as possible.
WISE: Kristen, please give us some background on your experience prior to working at Massimo Zanetti Beverage.
KRISTEN: Prior to working at Massimo Zanetti, I spent nearly a decade working for a local non-profit health organization, Edmarc Hospice for Children. I assisted with planning fun events for children and their families and worked to fundraise to ensure Edmarc families facing a pediatric terminal illness would not receive a bill for care.
WISE: How did you find your career opportunity with Massimo Zanetti Beverage?
KRISTEN: I really enjoyed the marketing side of fundraising and wanted to expand my knowledge.
WISE: What has your experience been like while working during COVID? How did that mold your experience?
KRISTEN: What an interesting adventure it has been! I was promoted into my current role in August 2020. Learning a new position while working remotely during the pandemic (and with a 5-year-old) was a challenge. Looking back, I feel it was a great opportunity to embrace technology, and it allowed me to become closer with our full-time remote employees. The experience helped me realize it isn’t “work life balance,” instead it feels like “work life integration” which for me, allows for more flexibility.
WISE: What got you interested in joining the WISE organization?
KRISTEN: My coworker and friend, Rachel Kirkpatrick introduced me. I was jazzed to serve alongside amazing individuals to champion the power of diversity and inclusion within the store brands industry.
WISE: How long have you been a part of WISE? Tell us all about what you’ve done within the organization.
KRISTEN: I joined the junior board in 2021. I also had a wonderful experience participating in a mentor circle.
WISE: What were your thoughts about the organization as you learned about WISE and its mission?
KRISTEN: It’s a wonderful opportunity for professional development, but mostly an awesome way to surround myself with diverse and inspiring individuals and ideas. I believe, strongly, that we each need to be the change we wish to see in the world (thanks, Maya), and this is a great way to integrate those values into career goals.
WISE: What do you think could be the future of WISE?
KRISTEN: Hopefully, the future of WISE is that our vision continues to come to life, that we do see a future where a dynamic and inclusive workforce is the store brand industry’s core strength. I envision all the shattered glass ceilings.
WISE: How would you sum up your experience in this industry, and what advice would you give to those considering joining this industry?
KRISTEN: This industry is fast paced and super fun… fueled beautifully by coffee. How does Kristen take her coffee? Seriously. Very Seriously. 😊