Meet Jane Dierkers, Kroger Health Community Engagement Manager, wife, mom of two, beauty aficionado and wellness leader. With an impressive background steeped in growth, Jane’s professional journey has greatly benefited The Kroger Co.’s relationship with their “Food as Medicine” strategy and the community at large. In her role, Jane is responsible for the Kroger Health strategic community relationships (including non-profit organizations, Kroger CPG partners, and for-profit organizations), who focus on the importance of nutrition, education, food security, healthy eating, fitness and better-for-you brands.
“I started with Kroger 12 years ago and have quite literally ‘grown up’ with the company. I have been given an incredible amount of opportunity and am constantly challenged to work outside of my comfort zone,” Jane says. “I am proud to work for the President of Kroger Health, Colleen Lindholz, who has always encouraged me to remain true to myself and lead with my own core values. I truly believe that when you do that, you can never go wrong.”
Jane knows understanding and respecting different perspectives result in the best business outcomes. When times get stressful, she finds peace in knowing her unique aspects – as well as her colleagues – are what make a strong workplace.
Weaving routine into her work and home life goes a long way for Jane and her family. She starts each day with a green juice, and ends her days with a sit-down dinner with her family.
“I make it a priority to start and end each day in ways that make me happy. Starting each day with a healthy green juice makes me feel like I am on the right track, where my evening gives my family the opportunity to tell each other about our days, whether they were good or maybe not the best,” Jane says. “Connection and laughter with my family has always been key to my happiness!”
Jane has also learned to use tools to support her emotional and mental wellness. She believes that mental wellbeing is incredibly important, and staying connected with family, co-workers, and friends makes her feel whole. She tries to live in a place of positivity, even during challenging times, which has helped her mental wellbeing.
As for her wellness in 2023, Jane is focusing on more movement as an overall goal. While a lot of Jane’s job is in the public eye and out in the community, her behind-the-scenes hustle days involve lots of desk work. She’s noticed even a short walk added into her work day makes a huge, positive difference.
In addition to believing in movement, Jane also has some favorite health and wellness products. She highly recommends 80 Acres Farms for the best greens you will ever have, Rooted Juicery for a delicious smoothie, and the Farmacy Honey Halo ceramide face moisturizer and any product from Charlotte Tilbury for excellent skincare and makeup.
“A Leadership Style” is a column authored by WISe Wellness Guild founder Stevi Gable Carr and powered by Crunchmaster Crackers aimed at celebrating female leaders who have advanced in their careers because they have integrated work and life through whole-self wellness.