By: Madeline Torrisi, Manager, Marketing and Morgan Griffin, Manager, Communications FMI
The Store Manager Awards shine a spotlight on the leaders who keep stores running, teams motivated, and communities served. In 2025, the Category C honor went to Rama Diallo—a store manager whose impact is felt far beyond the sales floor. We sat down with Rama to learn more about her journey, what the award means to her, and why recognizing store-level leadership matters more than ever.
Q: Rama, congratulations on being named the 2025 Category C Store Manager Awards Winner. What was your reaction when you found out?
Rama Diallo: My reaction was priceless! Mentally, I instantly went on a journey of reflection filled with gratitude. I was truly happy and thankful to my team and the individuals who shaped my journey at Jewel-Osco. I was immensely touched by the opportunity to represent the company and every hard-working individual in Retail Operations, as I saw the award as a collective achievement. I am grateful for the nomination and the experience of being named the 2025 Category C Store Manager Awards Winner.
Q: How has receiving this award impacted you professionally?
Diallo: It has made me want to become that leader who in turn has the opportunity to nominate someone in the future, making a statement to my peers and upcoming leaders that anyone can achieve this prestigious award. Personally, the award spoke volumes about the endless possibilities and further defined the meaning of not being afraid to take risks, showing up every day, and giving my best for our customers, my team, the community, and Jewel-Osco. Receiving texts, celebratory calls, and emails with kind words of encouragement from Store Directors and leaders in other Albertsons Companies divisions was heartwarming.
Q: Why do you think awards like this are important for the food industry?
Diallo: I believe the FMI Store Manager award is important because it promotes excellence within the food retail sector. It shows that grocery stores are important, and I strongly believe that it shapes great leaders and speaks volumes about the credibility and values of a company.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering nominating a store manager this year?
Diallo: I would advise that person not to hesitate because the experience of the award nomination, whether they’re named a finalist or winner, is exceptional and it will make them better leaders in the future.
As the industry looks ahead, now is the time to recognize the store managers making a difference every day. Nominations for the Store Manager Awards are open January 12 through February 28, an opportunity to spotlight leadership like Rama Diallo’s and help elevate the role of store managers across the food industry.
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