BY J.M. LEE
Glenys started a part-time data entry position with Overwaitea Food Group on June 9, 1992. From there, she progressed through various positions over the years including pricing coordinator – price check coordinator – a merchandiser under one of her mentors and friends Jason Clegg. “In 2004 I was then asked to be a part of the project team to stand up our pricing and promotions system called AMP. After the project completed, I was then moved into private brands as a business development manager for 2 years -from there I was given a role to lead the team for new lines and costing back then a team of 4. And then u see Brenda Kirk I was given the opportunity to stand up a new team for merchandising contracts and supplier dedication.” Fast forward to today and she merged the new lines – category clerk teams and supplier admin teams into one which is where it stands today with it evolving and it has expanded into the Data Services division, now comprising 31 team members.
“Some of the biggest lessons I have learned are to exercise patience and resilience and not let my emotions lead me,” she says calmly. “My biggest inspirations have been Brenda Kirk and my good friend Tracey Pritchard and most recently Troy Dewinetz.
Leading a large team can come with challenges, Glenys realized. “Most of my team is also comprised of women, except for 3, so we all have diverse personalities. Sometimes, this can cause strife. In learning to overcome obstacles, we must channel our words effectively, and understanding each person’s unique style is valuable. As Karl Jung said, ‘Every individual is unique.’ Each individual’s journey toward wholeness and self-realization is a distinct path and purpose, driven by one’s unique experiences, unconscious thoughts, and interactions with the world.”
As a single mother, balancing a growing career and being present became a challenge for Glenys. In her professional life, she makes herself vulnerable anytime she puts herself out there and is very candid.
“In 2010, I accepted a task to help our growing ethnic team set up our first East meets West store. Then, in 2012, I was introduced to the South Asian team to help them with their processes. It was a step out of my everyday world and a culture I quickly had to learn and adapt. Learning the language and culture, and meeting so many people, was one of the best experiences in my career. Being surrounded by amazing people along the way has been a great support.”
Personalities draw her to individuals with whom there’s a vibe or a connection. “My manager, Sarah, and I have that; it’s been the best relationship. The energy is just there.”
Glenys has always been a very transparent and open person. She’s not afraid to speak her mind, which can come with some consequences. However, she believes in truth and transparency in both her personal and professional life. “My parents always told me to stand up for what I think is fair and say what I mean.”
Having resilience is critical for her. “Adaptation to one’s surroundings is key. Ambiguity in my role is a daily occurrence, and if you cannot deal with things that are not black and white, that can be a challenge. You need to have that one person with whom you can talk and vent, and who is your constant colleague or friend. I also find that not getting caught up in a game of gender is critical. Act like a leader, even if you’re a female or male. We are all equal. Show your worth and strength. As a leader, planting a garden and watching it grow is critical. Don’t get bogged down in the weeds.”
Every morning, Glenys talks to each team member, asking them questions about work and personal matters. “I believe in gender equality; if you’re the right person, you’re the right person regardless of gender. Sometimes, it’s harder to be with all the boys. But other times, it’s easier to work in a sea of men; there aren’t as many emotions if that makes sense.”
Glenys’ daughter lives in Smithers, BC, a small town in the northern part of the province. She has four grandsons. “I travel as frequently as possible to go and see them and decompress,” she says excitedly. “I also have a dog—my baby Winnie—and I relax on the patio with a glass of wine,” she says, taking a deep breath, and offers wise advice to the next generation of women. “Lean in, stand up for what you want, and advocate for yourself if no one else will. But first, be professional.”
