I am the Vice President of National Real Estate at ALDI, one of America’s fastest-growing grocers. In my role, I oversee the development, design, and construction of all new and remodeled stores to ensure our customers across the country have access to great products at the best possible prices.ALDI has been focused on intentional and thoughtful growth since I began my career with the company in 1987. I first served as a District Manager Trainee, later transitioning to Director of Operations before stepping into the role of Divisional Vice President in Springfield, Ohio. During this time, I oversaw the growth of ALDI in the southern half of Ohio to North and South Carolina, opening more than 70 stores. Since 2016, my team has helped accelerate our growth, opening about 100 new stores per year. These stores continue to maintain the unique look and feel that makes ALDI successful, including 20,000 square feet layouts and eco-friendly features like rooftop solar panels and natural refrigerants. In fact, ALDI has committed to lead the industry in the transition to natural refrigerants, with a goal to implement environmentally friendly refrigerants across all U.S. stores before the end of 2035.As we’ve added new stores, I have helped drive consistency across store lifecycles, improved our real estate cost leadership and ensured that we’re creating and remodeling our stores with sustainability top of mind. I graduated from Cornell University with a degree in agricultural economics and business management and enjoy spending time with family at our lake house and fishing camp.