Where did you grow up? East Coast – Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P.E.I. First job in the biz? I started at a local Sobeys store at age 16 working in various areas, including grocery, cash, receiving, night crew, and “parcel pick up.” I was there through high school and university before joining Nestlé as a merchandiser. Who has inspired you? My father worked retail growing up; I loved listening to and watching him. Today, my family and friends, industry colleagues, and awesome Nestlé team keep my tank full. How would you describe yourself? Reflective. Intentional. Solution-focused. Committed. Best advice you’ve ever received? Leaders come alive in the big moments. Careers and relationships are defined by how you show up in the moment when you are needed most. How do you define success? Understanding where I need to be, having a meaningful impact, and growing through it. Favourite sport and team? My daughter’s High Park U11 Girls soccer team. Favourite business book? Have referred to The First 90 Days and Five Dysfunctions of a Team many times. Hobbies? Mountain biking. It’s an environment that forces me to focus on the next 10 feet and release everything else. Favourite charity? So many important ones. Kids Help Phone is one I support with Nestlé. The need has been elevated and they are doing great work in new ways. Favourite vacation destination? I enjoy experiencing new places. Greece and Costa Rica stand out. Favourite TV show? One is “Band of Brothers,” a Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks produced series. Celebrities you have met? Took the elevator with Taylor Swift and her security detail. We haven’t talked since. Things to do on your bucket list? I have never been to Italy. My wife Heather and I have been dreaming of visiting. Note to self…need to make it happen. Favourite saying? Always liked the Walt Disney quote, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” What would people be surprised to know about you? I will take on projects around the house that I likely would be better off to let a professional do.
Jim Slomka is executive vice president of media strategy for Grocery Business.
