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IDDBA 2022 Champions of Change

IDDBA 2022 Champions of Change

By Norseland, Posted in Company News
June 24, 2022

Congratulations to our team recognized with the “Champions of Change” award at the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

The International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA) and WGB have once again partnered to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of individuals in the bakery, deli, foodservice/prepared foods and dairy communities who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and who have produced superior results in the previous year. We are so proud of our outstanding team!

Heather Iafrate

General Manager, Marketing, Norseland Inc.

What inspires your leadership approach?

Simon Sinek and Steve Robins have influenced my management style and leadership approach. I recently read a quote from Simon Sinek which said, “Protect people. Because in tough times, the numbers will never rush to save you.” This quote basically sums up my management philosophy. People first. I believe encourage and practice investing in the development and support of people.

How would you define a Champion of Change?

I define a Champion of Change as anyone, at any level, who asks the hard questions and encourages companies and leadership teams to think differently and value other perspectives.

Favorite food: The Brooklyn Sicilian Pizza from Joe’s Pizza in New Canaan, Ct.

Lauren Winger

Assistant Marketing Manager, Norseland Inc.

What inspires your leadership approach?

Taking responsibility for finding potential in people and process and having the courage to develop that potential.

How would you define a Champion of Change?

To be a Champion of Change is to have an open mind, to explore and to see things in different perspectives – to be motivated and determined to make changes happen.

Favorite food: Buffalo chicken wraps.

Julia Toscano

National Account Manager, Norseland Inc.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Providing creative solutions to retailers’ challenges and working with the industry’s most innovative product lines. It is always exciting to see a new product hit the shelves.

What inspires your leadership approach?

I have had the enormous pleasure of working with some very creative and driven leaders over the past 15 years. I pull from my experiences and lead with a positive and thoughtful approach.

What do you value most about being a part of the grocery business?

The grocery business is essential to all our lives. Providing consumers with the highest quality specialty cheeses is a very rewarding experience that I am very proud to be a part of.

Favorite food: Seafood

Ryan Adams

Regional Sales Manager, Norseland Inc.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Building relationships with our retail partners to provide the best assortment of specialty cheese for the consumers at the store level. Also, seeing innovation come to life from the development stages to getting the product on shelf to meet consumer demand.

What inspires your leadership approach?

Treat everyone with respect with a focus on achieving goals as a team: leading by example with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude; and always recognize achievements, offer honest feedback and be open to feedback you receive from others.

What do you value most about being a part of the grocery business?

People take pride in their cheese boards that they share with their friends and family, and we get to provide them with the finest cheeses from around the world to impress their company. There is nothing better than seeing someone pick up one of our items while grocery shopping.

Favorite food: Pizza, tacos, and of course, cheese.