KeHE Unwrapped: Julie Caine
At KeHE®, we’re proud to spotlight team members whose passion, creativity, and dedication make our community stronger. This month, we’re excited to feature Julie Caine, Creative & Advertising Director, who works out of our corporate office in Naperville.
For more than 15 years, Julie has played a pivotal role in shaping KeHE’s brand, building our Marketing function, and helping our suppliers and retailers thrive. Her leadership, vision, and heart for people reflect the best of who we are as an organization.
Q: What inspired you to join KeHE, and what was your first impression of the company?
A: I first became familiar with KeHE while working at White Hen Pantry in the Chicagoland area, where we relied on KeHE for store deliveries. When several leaders transitioned from White Hen to KeHE, I began supporting the company with freelance creative work in 2009 and was hired full-time in 2010.
As a Christian, I was immediately drawn to KeHE’s mission, vision, and core purpose—they resonated deeply with my own values. From day one, I could tell the people here were different from those in traditional corporate environments. I had found a place where I could grow both personally and professionally while helping shape the Marketing team.
Q: How has your role evolved during your time at KeHE, and what lessons have you learned along the way?
A: When I joined, there was no formal Marketing team. KeHE had just acquired Tree of Life, and sales publications needed to be integrated. In those early days, my focus was on learning the business and creating tools to support the sales team.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of helping build KeHE’s brand into one that is widely recognized across the industry, while also laying the foundation for advertising at KeHE. What began as a few small initiatives has grown into a dynamic area of the business that provides meaningful opportunities for suppliers and retailers.
Throughout my career, I’ve always felt empowered to embrace challenges, provide thought leadership, and continuously grow—both as a marketer and a leader.
Q: Can you share a standout memory or experience at KeHE that holds a special meaning for you?
A: One of my favorite memories was traveling to downtown Chicago with KeHE Cares® leader Randy Shaw to help teach a design class at the By The Hand after-school program. The students’ passion, talent, and belief in their own potential were truly inspiring.
It was an honor to spend time with them and show that a career in art and design is within their reach. I’ll never forget the joy and confidence that filled the room that day.
Q: What opportunities have helped you grow personally and professionally during your time at KeHE?
A: My leadership team has significantly shaped my growth. They consistently encourage me to stretch beyond my comfort zone while providing the support, honesty, and constructive feedback needed to strengthen my leadership and collaboration skills.
Q: What changes at KeHE have made the biggest impact on you, your work, or the company culture?
A: Over the past 15 years, I’ve watched KeHE evolve into an increasingly strong and efficient partner for our customers. Although we’ve faced challenges along the way, one thing has stayed constant: the dedication of our people.
KeHE’s tagline—“We Serve to Make Lives Better”—is more than a statement. It truly reflects the heart of the company and the spirit of the individuals who show up every day ready to make an impact.
Q: How have your colleagues and the KeHE community shaped your experience?
A: The people are one of the biggest reasons I’ve remained at KeHE for so long. From executive leaders who genuinely listen and stay connected, to cross-functional teams who collaborate with positivity and determination, the culture here is rooted in support, care, and shared purpose.
It’s the people who make the work meaningful—and who continue to inspire me every day.
Want to learn more about KeHE? Visit kehe.com/about.
Interested in joining our team? Explore open roles at careers.kehe.com.
