Her Story
About Lauren
Lauren Poisson was just recently promoted to Director, Client Services at Daymon Worldwide. With 21 years in the industry, she began her career as a part-time Administrative Assistant and advanced to Associate Business Manager, and then Business Manager, where she managed the General Merchandise and Health and Beauty Care desk at the SpartanNash account for approximately 17 years. Four years ago, Poisson transitioned into a Senior Business Manager role, where she guides and connects suppliers, embedded field teams, and Topco to support business growth through meetings, strategy initiatives, and guidance on promotions and category reviews. Most recently, she was promoted to Director, Client Services Dry Goods, where she works directly with suppliers, helping develop strategies for growth and connection to accounts across the United States. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Aquinas College in 1998 and maintains membership in WISE, the Women Impacting Store Brands Excellence group. In her community, Poisson has contributed through coaching multiple youth sports teams, while raising 5 children of her own, and volunteering in team management and extracurricular activities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lauren
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success first and foremost to having been raised by two very intelligent, loving parents, that have supported me and were incredible role models throughout my life. The opportunities that they gave through sending me to great schools, supporting me in athletics, and pushing me to get my College Education made a huge impact on my life. Beyond that, having the support of my husband and working together to raise our 5 children, while both working full time also contributed greatly to my success. Throughout my career I have worked under some great leaders that pushed me to think outside the box, supported me, and gave me the confidence to push forward in my career. The desire to provide for my family and be an example to my kids has been a motivating factor to put in the work necessary to be successful. Working with and around great people has also been a big part of my success. When you feel like your leaders and coworkers trust in the work that you are doing, it gives you the confidence to take chances and do your job.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I was once told, "Don't let yourself get complacent". It took a little while for that to really set in, but I've thought about that often, and try very hard to follow through on that.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Know your value and be willing to build up those around you. Being part of a team means carrying your weight and contributing your best while supporting the rest of the team. If you are only concerned about your own success, it is a detriment to the organization that you are working for.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges that we are facing in the Grocery Industry is inflation and consolidation. The cost of goods are making it more and more difficult for Grocery Retailers to remain competitive with the wholesale model. Bigger Corporations buying up smaller chains is also widening the gap, applying even more pressure on Grocery Retailers.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Compassion for others, integrity, and respect are the values that are most important to me in both by personal and professional life. Being assertive is important, but doing so with compassion and respect for others is what I strive for. These are also values that I have tried very hard to teach my children.
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