KeHE Unwrapped: Robin Benka
At KeHE®, we’re proud to spotlight the incredible people who help drive our mission forward, like Robin Benka, Senior Account Manager for Kroger Roundy’s WI and Mariano’s divisions. Based in Milwaukee, Robin has been part of the KeHE family for an impressive 24 years, including time with Gourmet Award Foods and Tree of Life. Her dedication, experience, and passion for partnership have made a lasting impact, and we’re excited to celebrate her journey and the value she continues to bring to our team every day.
Q: What inspired you to join KeHE, and what was your first impression of the company?
A: I started my career in grocery with Gourmet Award Foods, as I grew up around the industry. I love to cook and consider myself to be “foodie”. When KeHE acquired Tree of Life in 2010, I was inspired by the organization’s openness to change, its strategic vision for growth, and its genuine commitment to making a meaningful impact in the communities that we serve.
Q: How has your role evolved during your time at KeHE, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
A: My first role was on the Customer Service team for GAF in Milwaukee. I then relocated to Bloomington, IN, and was on the Customer Service team for Specialty Grocery Sales. I later returned to Milwaukee to take on the role of Executive Assistant to the VP of Specialty Grocery Sales. Following that role, I moved into an analyst role. I have progressed from Account Analyst to Account Manager, and now am in the Sr. Account Manager role, reflecting increased responsibility and strategic oversight.
I’ve learned that adaptability, patience, and clear communication are essential to achieving long-term success and building strong working relationships.
Speak up and ask the question – chances are others are thinking it too.
Q: Can you share a standout memory or experience at KeHE that holds a special meaning for you?
A: While it’s hard to choose just one, attending my first KeHE show stands out. It was a meaningful experience to meet long-time business partners and colleagues from across the country after years of connecting primarily through phone and email and strengthen those relationships with a face-to-face connection.
Q: What opportunities have helped you grow personally and professionally during your time at KeHE?
A: Participating in a variety of cross-functional projects has sharpened my leadership and project management skills. With being able to see things “big picture” and better understand impact across the organization, these experiences have enhanced my ability to drive initiatives from planning through execution and align teams through shared goals.
Q: What changes at KeHE have made the biggest impact on you, your work, or the company culture?
A: It’s been exciting to see the evolution of reporting and digital tools available to support the Commercial team and KeHE as a whole. I am thankful that KeHE continues to invest in these tools to support our growth and effectiveness.
Q: How have your colleagues and the KeHE community shaped your experience?
A: I am grateful to have had encouraging and empowering mentors over the years – I would not be the person I am today without their guidance. We have a culture of collaboration and genuine support that inspires me to succeed. I’m fortunate to be surrounded by driven and capable individuals who push each other to grow.
To learn more about KeHE, please visit https://www.kehe.com/about/. Looking to join KeHE? Please visit, https://careers.kehe.com.
