KeHE Unwrapped: Veronica Montes
At KeHE®, we’re proud to recognize team members whose dedication, growth, and commitment continue to make a meaningful impact across our organization. This month, we’re excited to feature Jose Galan, Territory Sales Manager serving independent retailers throughout the Chicago area.
Over the past 12 years, Jose has built an impressive career at KeHE, progressing from an overnight stocker to a sales leader responsible for developing customer relationships and supporting independent retailers across the city. His journey reflects the power of hard work, continuous learning, and building trust through honesty and strong partnerships.
Q: What is your current position, and which KeHE location do you work at?
A: I am currently a Territory Sales Manager serving independent retailers throughout the Chicago area. I work closely with store owners and managers across the city to help grow their businesses and support their communities.
Q: How long have you been with KeHE, and what inspired you to join the company? What was your first impression?
A: I’ve been with KeHE since 2014 and am celebrating 12 years with the company this month.
My brother joined KeHE before I did and would always talk about how welcoming and supportive the team was. One thing that stood out to me early on was hearing that KeHE invests in developing its people. That message stayed with me and continues to resonate today. From the beginning, I felt that KeHE was a place where hard work and a willingness to learn could lead to meaningful growth opportunities.
Q: How has your role evolved during your time at KeHE, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
A: I started my career at KeHE as an overnight stocker right out of high school at 18 years old. From there, I moved into merchandising and eventually into sales.
Throughout that journey, I learned that if you are eager to learn, the opportunities at KeHE are endless. Today, I’m responsible for developing independent retailers throughout Chicago, working closely with business owners and managers who care deeply about serving their communities. Their passion motivates me to continue learning about our products and finding the best opportunities and solutions for their businesses.
Q: Can you share a standout memory or experience at KeHE that holds special meaning for you?
A: One of my most memorable experiences was closing my first truckload deal with an independent retailer.
I partnered with a customer to purchase 24 pallets of bottled water for a major summer promotion. The excitement I felt wasn’t just about the size of the order—it was about earning the trust of the customer and successfully coordinating a deal of that magnitude.
At the time, it was also one of the most nerve-wracking situations I had experienced in my career. That moment showed me what was possible when you combine the tools and support KeHE provides with strong customer relationships built on trust. It reinforced the importance of honesty, hard work, and following through on your commitments.
Q: What opportunities have helped you grow personally and professionally during your time at KeHE?
A: One of the greatest contributors to my growth has been the trust and autonomy provided by leadership.
I’m given goals and expectations, but I’m also empowered to determine the best path to achieve them. That level of responsibility has helped me develop strong self-discipline, accountability, and confidence in my decision-making. Over time, it has helped me become a stronger negotiator, salesperson, and business partner.
Q: What changes at KeHE have made the biggest impact on you, your work, or the company culture?
A: One of the biggest changes I’ve seen over the years has been the growth of the tools and resources available to support our customers.
Compared to a decade ago, we now have a variety of solutions that make it easier for retailers to do business with KeHE. From Connect Portal to programs like New at KeHE, Spotlight, Digital Market, and our promotional books, we have more ways than ever to help customers discover products and identify growth opportunities. Combined with our broad assortment, these tools allow us to better support retailers and their evolving needs.
Q: How have your colleagues and the KeHE community shaped your experience?
A: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from colleagues and mentors throughout my career is the importance of always speaking with honesty.
No matter the situation—even when circumstances are outside of your control—being honest builds trust and strengthens relationships. That principle has shaped the way I work with customers, colleagues, and business partners every day. The support, guidance, and example set by those around me have played a significant role in my growth throughout my KeHE journey.
Want to learn more about KeHE? Visit kehe.com/about.
Interested in joining our team? Explore open roles at careers.kehe.com.
