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From InTouch Magazine Summer 2019 Issue

JOY JUNG

Director of Procurement, Accent Food Services

BA Sociology, University of North Texas
ELN Member, ELN Steering Committee Member, 2018 EDP Graduate


How did you get into the convenience services industry?
After a period of unprecedented growth, I was brought on by Accent to lead procurement in May of 2017. I wanted to be part their progressive approach to innovation to alternative retail formats.

Give us an overview of your role and key responsibilities.
I lead the implementation of enterprise wide strategic sourcing and procurement initiatives. I collaborate with channel marketing to understand business needs, translate these needs to specific supplier requirements, establish target pricing, SLAs and success measures to ultimately serve our clients.

What are the skills you use most in your career?
Influence is integral to building consensus amongst internal and external stakeholders to ensure objectives are realized and sustained. Problem solving is a critical skill as well. I work closely with our manufacturer and distributor partners to reduce points of friction in the supply chain.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges you face in your business?
Product lifecycles are becoming shorter and shorter as consumer behavior shifts. Remaining nimble to keep consumers engaged is a challenge. Disruptive technologies, changing legislation, and commodity pricing produce headwinds as well.

What are the greatest opportunities?
Embracing an agile supply chain model to support the shift of consumer behaviors and the accelerated demand for convenience.

What are you looking forward to at the Fly-In & Advocacy Summit? (if applicable)
The Fly-In is a neat event. It’s a great opportunity to be a part of the discussion and advocacy efforts which impact the industry. I’m looking forward to the education sessions.

Tell us about the most memorable work experience you’ve had. 
I always enjoy Accent’s Annual Leadership Summit. It’s a jam-packed three days of learning and spending time with our supplier partners, team, and families.

What’s one thing — either industry-related or not — you learned in the last month?
I recently took a cooking class and learned how to make macaroons.

What advice would you offer young people starting their careers in this industry?
Be bold! Fresh perspectives are a good thing — share your point of view. Stay abreast of industry trends and get connected.

What’s a favorite piece of advice you’ve received that has helped you in your professional career?
Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. Iron sharpens iron.

As an ELN member, in your own words, what is the value of participating in group?
As the convenience industry continues to evolve, I’ve found tremendous value in bouncing ideas around with forward thinking peers. I’ve learned so much from fellow ELN members. The camaraderie amongst the ELN group is positive and inspiring.

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I enjoy arts and crafts. I spend most of my free time covered in paint “experimenting” with different mediums.