Her Story
About Sonya
Sonya Herburger is an accomplished sales executive with more than 36 years of experience driving business growth, building lasting client relationships, and leading high-performing sales initiatives. She currently serves as Regional Sales Manager at Sadie Rose Baking Co., where she oversees sales throughout Southern California, partnering with high-end hotels, restaurants, banquet facilities, and hospitality organizations. Her extensive background also includes senior sales leadership at First Choice Services, where she has consistently exceeded revenue targets, strengthened customer partnerships, and earned recognition as both Employee of the Year and Salesperson of the Year for her outstanding performance.
In addition to her successful sales career, Sonya is an award-winning published children's author and an advocate for lifelong learning. Her acclaimed book, Willie's Quest for a Home, was inspired by her passion for animal rescue and promotes themes of compassion, resilience, and second chances. She is also developing a new adult book based on true events while expanding her knowledge of emerging technologies through certifications in AI platforms such as Midjourney and Lovable, reflecting her commitment to continuous personal and professional growth.
Outside of her professional achievements, Sonya is dedicated to giving back to her community as a board member of A Home 4 Ever Rescue, where she supports animal welfare through fundraising, volunteer leadership, contract evaluation, and adoption initiatives. She is also a member of POWER, a professional organization that recognizes accomplished women leaders. Through her work in sales, writing, and philanthropy, Sonya exemplifies leadership grounded in integrity, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping both people and animals thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sonya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the values of hard work, integrity, compassion, and resilience that were instilled in me from an early age. Overcoming self-doubt and personal challenges taught me empathy, while my experiences in sales and customer service showed me that building genuine relationships is more valuable than simply achieving results. My journey as an author, despite living with dyslexia and ADHD, reinforced that perseverance and a willingness to keep learning can turn obstacles into opportunities. I believe success is measured not by titles, but by the lives I positively impact and the courage to keep growing.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to surround myself with people who genuinely support and uplift one another. Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to be mentored by incredible women who celebrated my successes, encouraged me through challenges, and showed me that collaboration is far more powerful than competition. That advice has shaped my leadership style and reinforced my belief that when we lift others up, we all succeed.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Love yourself, believe in your abilities, and never give up on your dreams. I never imagined I would become an author, yet I went on to write a children's book and have an adult book on the way. No matter where life takes you—whether through your career, marriage, or family—don't lose sight of who you are. Your journey is uniquely yours, and only you can define what success looks like.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the ability to continually learn, adapt, and embrace change. Whether it's advancing in my career, exploring new technologies, or pursuing creative passions like writing, I've found that growth comes from stepping outside my comfort zone. Challenges will always exist, but I believe they're opportunities to build resilience, develop new skills, and discover strengths you never knew you had.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are integrity, compassion, authenticity, and resilience. I believe in treating people with kindness, honesty, and respect, while staying true to who I am. I also value lifelong learning and embracing change, because every challenge is an opportunity to grow. Above all, I strive to live with faith, perseverance, and compassion, knowing that success is measured by the positive impact we have on others.
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