Teri Miller

Delhaize America
Produce Category Manager

Years with company:  25 years

Current position:  Produce Category Manager

Education degrees and professional/volunteer organizations:

• B.S. in Accounting, UNC-Charlotte
• CPA; CISA
• Current Board Member and Treasurer of SouthEast Produce Council (SEPC)
• Committee Member Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI)
• Past Board Member and Treasurer of Lion’s Pride Foundation

Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career:
I am blessed to have had many mentors/supporters/friends who have helped guide me on a successful path here at Delhaize and in my life.  Each of them helped with different aspects and I will always be grateful.  But my first mentors were my parents.  I grew up in a family business so I was able to learn at an early age the amount of work and focus needed to be successful.  Dad taught me the importance of  “Being A Man” (i.e. a person who stands by their principles and responsibilities).  Mom taught me the importance of understanding my part in any unpleasant situations (i.e. what could I have done differently).

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date?
I will always be proud of several major projects that I led at Delhaize.   But helping others find their place in life (business or personal) is the most gratifying.  To give encouragement, straight talk, and advice to others as it was given to me is the best way to say thank you to those who did that for me.  Quite honestly, straight talk may sting a bit but when it is given from someone who truly cares, there is no better gift.

Most challenging part of your job:
You may find this funny but it is the phenomena of intelligent people who think that most any produce item can be grown anywhere and overnight.

Advice for upcoming younger executives:
LISTEN!  None of us have all the answers but if you listen and consider what you hear, TOGETHER, the answer can be found.

Hobbies:
Reading self development books; Avid sports fan – I don’t care if it is peewee ball or professional – I love to watch games with my husband.