From Classroom to Career with SEG

Origins:

As a people-first company, Southeastern Grocers, LLC (SEG) strives to ensure that associates feel supported and valued as they grow within their careers and personal lives. Proudly recognized as a Great Place to Work® for five consecutive years, the grocer uplifts and empowers its people to choose their own path towards success through several advancement opportunities. Last year, SEG furthered its commitment to education and workforce development by awarding $75,000 in associate scholarships as well as continuing its dynamic internship program. In 2024, SEG awarded 25 scholarships of $3,000 each to in-store and store support center associates to help cover the cost of educational courses, books and more. Since 2020, the company has distributed $287,000 in scholarships to help associates pursue academic and career goals.

Complementing the scholarship program, SEG hosted an immersive 12-week internship at its Jacksonville, Florida headquarters. In 2024, several college students, including international participants, were immersed in a paid, hands-on experience working with leaders across departments such as marketing, HR, IT, operations and e-commerce. The 13 summer interns planned and executed strategic projects, joined more than 30 business workshops, participated in volunteer efforts and shadowed associates in Harveys and Winn-Dixie stores to gain frontline experience. The program also included networking, personal development sessions and the potential for future employment. Together, these programs reflect SEG’s focus on developing future leaders from within and outside the organization, cultivating professional growth and investing in the growth of the grocery industry.

Contribution:

SEG proudly contributed to further educational opportunities for 25 associates across its stores and support center, with recipients selected by District Directors and Human Resources Business Partners as leaders who know and champion their teams. Winners are celebrated locally by store and regional teams and recognized companywide, each receiving a signed letter from Anthony Hucker, Chairman, President & CEO, underscoring top-level support. SEG’s leaders are also deeply involved in the company’s paid internship program, mentoring 13 rising college juniors and seniors in a variety of departments. Interns are guided by SEG professionals as they plan and execute business projects that directly contribute to company success. The program offers hands-on store experience and community volunteering to provide a comprehensive view of retail leadership. Both programs are company funded and actively supported by SEG leadership, reflecting a deep investment in personalized development and community connection through education, mentorship and career-building opportunities.

Objectives:

SEG’s scholarship and internship programs are designed to empower individuals, enhance workforce readiness and cultivate a pool of high-performing talent. By providing financial assistance to 25 associates, the scholarship program reduces barriers to continuing education and supports career advancement. The internship program offers college students real-world experience in corporate retail to promote the growth of future leaders in the industry. Interns receive department-specific training, professional development through workshops and exposure to daily operations in stores. This holistic approach fosters leadership development and deepens interns’ understanding of the grocery industry. Both programs aim to invest in people, build a future-ready workforce and further SEG’s people-first culture. Together, they support the company’s goals of nurturing talent, promoting diversity and inclusion and strengthening community ties through education and opportunity.

Impact:

SEG’s scholarship and internship programs offer measurable benefits for both associates and the business. The scholarship program provided tangible educational support by awarding 25 associates with $3,000 each, enabling them to continue their education without financial strain. Since its launch, the program has awarded $287,000 in scholarships, helping many associates achieve academic and career goals. The internship program hosted students over a 12-week period, offering structured training and real-life experience with strategic projects with lasting impact. Participants were also coached on the importance of community service through volunteering opportunities, reinforcing SEG’s culture of service and fostering a lifelong commitment to giving back. Outcomes include enhanced internal career paths and positive intern feedback with several interns pursuing further opportunities with SEG.

The company’s growing recognition as an employer of choice supports the effectiveness of this approach. In 2024, SEG was recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity and Most Loved Workplaces. U.S. News recognized SEG as one of the Best Companies to Work For, and the grocer has been named a Great Place to Work® for five consecutive years. These programs also garnered significant media coverage reaching an audience of over 2.5 million people through more than 160 stories. This coverage broadened the impact of the programs, educating potential candidates about the programs and showcasing SEG’s commitment to career development. Together, the grocer’s advancement programs demonstrate that combining meaningful investment, mentorship and hands-on experience fosters long-term growth for individuals and the organization alike.

Quote:

Anthony Hucker, Chairman, President & CEO, said, “People are at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when we invest in their growth and development, we are also investing in the future of our company and our communities. Our scholarship and internship programs are more than just opportunities; they serve as launchpads for the next generation of leaders. Whether an associate is pursuing their dream of continuing education or a student is exploring an exciting career path, we are proud to support and guide them every step of the way. We remain steadfast in our commitment to empower our people, uplift communities and shape a stronger future for the grocery industry.”

Support Statement:

Yaya Arias, past SEG Scholarship Recipient, said, “The SEG scholarship program is just one example of how SEG cares about its associates and their development. Being a part of the SEG community is bigger than working for a grocery store. It’s working with a team of individuals who show they care passionately about you, your dreams and aspirations. SEG continues to show how they care about their people and about what truly motivates them to be the best version of themselves.”