Griffith Laboratories

Company profile
Founded in 1919, Griffith Laboratories is a global manufacturer of food ingredient systems. Its customers include food processors, restaurant operators, grocery retailers and and distributors.

Business situation
As the Regional VP of Sales for Griffith Laboratories, Jennifer Convery had achieved success in her career, but she aspired for even greater success. That meant developing her executive presence, and she knew she needed help. At the recommendation of an executive colleague at YUM! Brands/Taco Bell, Jennifer contacted Charmaine McClarie to work one-on-one with her.

Solution
Charmaine provided executive coaching focused on developing Jennifer’s personal brand and communication style. As Jennifer expresses it, “Charmaine taught me many things, but the two most important takeaways I have from my time with her are: 1) What are your must-make points? and 2) Dressing the part.”

Charmaine taught Jennifer how to be more effective in her communication by adapting her message to her audience. “I now know how to provide the headline when I communicate; it’s clear, concise and direct. That headline conveys my message, but also speaks directly to the “So what?” for my audience,” says Jennifer.

Communication is one element of a personal brand, but appearance is just as important. Charmaine also provided guidance on how to dressing the part, which is more than fashion or clothing. Jennifer learned about presence and knowing how to carry herself in a way that shows confidence and credibility.

Benefits
Today, Jennifer is the President of the US for Griffith Laboratories Inc.. Although there are many contributing factors to the success of Griffith’s US business, Jennifer appreciates the impact Charmaine’s coaching has had on her ability to successfully lead the organization. Jennifer has engaged Charmaine to work with other managers and leaders on her team and says, “We have a diverse leadership team. But we represent ourselves well and communicate with one another well, which allows us to focus on doing business well. Charmaine has a lot to do with that.”

In their words
Jennifer describes Charmaine as “perceptive, thought provoking and challenging” and says, “It’s a wonderful feeling to know that you have a mentor, leader, and cheerleader who believes in you and allows your talent to come out. Leadership may be innately in you, but Charmaine teaches you how to deliver the message through your appearance, voice, tone and content. She makes you think strategically so you communicate with meaning and impact.”