KeHE Unwrapped: Dave Strege
At KeHE®, we’re proud to recognize team members whose leadership, growth, and commitment continue to make a meaningful impact across our organization. This month, we’re excited to feature Dave Strege, Regional Sales Manager in DC 46.
Dave’s journey reflects more than two decades of experience in the specialty foods industry, beginning with Tree of Life in 2002, transitioning to DPI Specialty Foods in 2003, and ultimately becoming part of KeHE through the DPI acquisition in 2023. Throughout his career, Dave has demonstrated adaptability, a passion for leadership, and a strong commitment to personal growth and collaboration.
Q: What is your current position, and which KeHE location do you work at?
A: I’m currently a Regional Sales Manager in DC 46.
Q: How long have you been with KeHE, and what inspired you to join the company? What was your first impression?
A: I have been with KeHE since June 2023 following the acquisition of DPI Specialty Foods.
My first impressions of KeHE were shaped by listening to Deb Conklin share the company’s story and vision during Town Hall meetings. After hearing Deb and other senior leaders speak about the future of KeHE, I knew I wanted to be part of that journey and contribute to the company’s continued success.
Q: How has your role evolved during your time at KeHE, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
A: During my time at KeHE, I have focused on becoming a more inspirational leader as I’ve become more immersed in the company’s culture.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned throughout my career is the importance of self-reflection. It’s important to remain flexible in your expectations and continue learning from every experience — both the good and the challenging ones. That mindset has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Q: Can you share a standout memory or experience at KeHE that holds special meaning for you?
A: One of the most impactful moments in my career was the day KeHE acquired DPI. My journey began 24 years ago at Tree of Life as a Sales
Representative in 2002, before transitioning to DPI in 2003. Becoming part of KeHE felt like coming full circle.
Over the years, I’ve grown from Sales Representative to District Sales Manager, and now Regional Sales Manager at KeHE. Looking back on that journey and seeing where it has led has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited about what the future holds.
Q: What opportunities have helped you grow personally and professionally during your time at KeHE?
A: Our management team under Jason Grimm encouraged everyone on the leadership team to read The Energy Bus, and that experience had a major impact on me.
One of the key takeaways from the book was the idea that only you are responsible for your attitude and enthusiasm. Starting each day with a positive mindset can completely change your perspective and influence the people around you. That lesson has stayed with me and continues to shape how I lead my team.
Q: What changes at KeHE have made the biggest impact on you, your work, or the company culture?
A: KeHE’s culture has had the biggest impact on me. Learning the value of selflessness and collaboration has helped transform me into a more open-minded individual and stronger team player.
Being part of KeHE’s vision has also given me a greater sense of purpose as a manager and leader.
Q: How have your colleagues and the KeHE community shaped your experience?
A: I’ve had the opportunity to work with many fantastic colleagues across the organization. One person who has made a particularly meaningful impact is Jim Kwasney, my counterpart in Washington.
Jim has been not only a colleague, but also a mentor and friend. We collaborate daily on leadership approaches and supporting our teams, and his extensive knowledge and management experience have helped make me a better leader.
Want to learn more about KeHE? Visit kehe.com/about.
Interested in joining our team? Explore open roles at careers.kehe.com.
