Women Leading the Way in Produce: Sonya Constable

Vice President, Produce
Sprouts Farmers Markets
430-plus store chain headquartered in Phoenix, AZ

Q. Tell us about your start in retail produce.

A. I still consider myself relatively new to the produce industry, with about a year and a half of experience. However, I have worked in retail for decades. I started my career in department stores and have switched between various sectors over the years, including apparel, home décor, furniture, textiles, pet products and grocery. My move to the produce sector was an opportunity to apply the skills I gained from other industries, while also allowing me to learn about a new field.

A career in retail has allowed me to balance my creative and analytical sides. I am hyper-focused on the customer, which requires me to study and ideate simultaneously.

Q. Who were early mentors instrumental in your successful career in retail produce?

A. Very early in my career, I worked for a former director whose presence impacted how I view work, strategy, stress and balance. To this day, I use her as a thought partner in my personal and professional lives. I also lean on peers and members of my team to help me continue to grow. When I joined the produce industry, it was instrumental that I trusted and leaned on my team of industry experts for my own and the business’s success.

Q. How did you climb the ladder? What skills, knowledge, and experience have been most instrumental?

A. A career path is never linear. I decided to take lateral moves or step back to learn something new to accelerate my career. In every role, I learned something, whether it was about business or people; they all contributed to where I am today.

Q. Could you share what you consider your most significant accomplishments in the industry?

A. My team is by far my biggest accomplishment, and I am so proud that everyone offers a diverse perspective on what we do. They are smart and driven and do a great job challenging themselves, each other, and me so that we all grow and continue to show our best for the customer.

Q. What advice would you offer women about a career in retail produce?

A. Always show up as your authentic self; there is a reason you are in the room, so trust it. You are never done learning; complacency will hold you back. Be bold in your journey. It won’t always take you where you thought you would go, but enjoy the ride!