Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF) Recognizes Lauren Genovese as a 2024 Change Maker

Lauren Genovese , Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), has been honored by the Women’s Foodservice Forum (WFF) as a 2024 Change Maker. WFF, a more than 30-year partner of Rich’s, works to accelerate the advancement of women leaders in the foodservice industry. WFF’s annual Change Makers program recognizes rising leaders who model inclusive leadership behaviors and support gender equity within their organizations, helping to build a strong pipeline of female leaders who are championing the growth of others in the industry.

Our Corporate Communications team recently sat down with Lauren to hear more about her professional journey, her advice to other women and how she feels about being named a 2024 WFF Change Maker.

Congrats on being named Rich’s 2024 WFF Change Maker! What does it mean to have received this recognition?

I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a collective effort! Removing barriers, giving associates what they need to be successful, and fostering inclusivity is a shared responsibility of all of us. It is only through collaboration that we can make progress and achieve our aspirations of nurturing a truly inclusive culture and providing exceptional experiences for every Associate. As we continue on this journey, there is much work ahead, but each and every day I am inspired by our leaders, Associate Resource Groups (ARGs), and associates across our business who are actively contributing and championing to create a better tomorrow together where everyone thrives.

What led you to your current role leading our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts at Rich’s?

In my 10 years at Rich’s, I’ve had a variety of roles and experiences ranging from starting as a temp associate in the Associate Services Center, to Total Rewards in HR, to leading new product development and breakthrough innovation projects in Speed-to-Market, to contributing to our Generations of Good strategy collaborating on sustainability efforts, and actively engaging with our Associate Resource Groups (ARGs) all along the way. Through extensive listening and learning, these experiences have led to a deeper understanding of the day-to-day of our associates, which is essential to creating the frameworks for impactful change. In my role now, I feel so much gratitude having the opportunity to serve my purpose while helping others. Celebrating what each of us uniquely brings to the table to create a better tomorrow, together.

What part of your career journey are you most proud of?

It’s impossible to pick one part. All my experiences and associates I have met along the way have shaped who I am today. Reflecting on my journey so far at Rich's – it's been the pursuit of what I'm curious about. I’ve had the opportunity to continuously learn, whether it's in role, part of a stretch assignment or participating in the great work driven by our ARGs. Having the ability to explore and learn has given me some of my best experiences and helped create the path that led me to where I am today.

What advice would you give the next generation of female leaders?

When faced with opportunities that can be uncomfortable, uncertain and intimidating, it’s easy to think about the worst-case scenarios. (Fact, our brains are designed to expect the worst!) But what is the best that could happen? Choose fear and don’t count yourself out. And remember to embrace the support of whoever makes up your community - leaders, peers, friends, family – who are there to guide you on the journey along the way. It is a collective effort!

In your opinion, what does increased representation mean for the industry?

Representation can't exist without removing barriers and creating an environment of trust. When we collectively trust that we're represented and advocated for, when our uniqueness is celebrated, and learning and failing forward is championed, we are creating a space for individuals to contribute in a meaningful way. This translates to a highly engaged workforce and industry that is collectively innovating and thriving, challenging the status quo, and creating a better tomorrow.

Congratulations, Lauren!