Bio

Resilient, transformational leader known for developing lean, dependable teams who deliver positive results in the constantly changing environment of grocery retail. Skilled communicator with a passion for product, partnership and retail. Proven negotiator who has established and grown strategic relationships with executives from industry-leading CPG and contract manufacturing companies. The statement above speaks to who I am as a professional, but more important is who I am as a person. I don’t simply develop teams and demand results – I establish individual relationships with each of my team members, strive to understand them as people, and adapt my leadership style in order to most effectively communicate the needs of the business. I am not just passionate about product, partnership and retail, but also about personal development, setting and achieving goals, and sharing what I’ve learned with others. These are the passions that have enabled me to become the skilled communicator and negotiator I am today. In my first full time role, I joined one of the world’s largest retailers without retail experience. I didn’t consider myself a strong leader at the time, but I knew that growth requires a challenge. I learned that I excel at pattern recognition and accelerated learning, two strengths that enable me to approach new topics and projects with confidence and effectiveness. Above all, I believe open-mindedness and constructive debate lead to the most successful outcome. Since then, I've led small and large teams across roles in Procurement, Marketing, Sales Planning, Pricing, Vendor Management and Space Planning. My current role (and favorite yet) covers the latter 3 areas and has challenged me to become an even stronger leader and relationship builder. If there's one thing that's consistent about each role, it's that I can look forward to solving a new challenge each day. Outside of work, you’ll find me outside, whether that be skiing, golfing, hiking or running. I also enjoy cooking, relaxing with a thought-provoking book or podcast, and trying (usually failing) to guess the topic of The Economist’s latest cover story as I open my mailbox. Interested in connecting and sharing what you’re passionate about? Email me at sethmnieman@gmail.com.