Amber Turner was a Parker’s Kitchen regular before she started working for the Georgia- and South Carolina-based convenience retailer. She started at Parker’s Kitchen as a kitchen associate in 2016. “Within a month I was promoted to kitchen manager and held that role for six years,” she said.

She’s now a store leader for a Parker’s Kitchen store in Pooler, Georgia, where she’s worked since 2023. Earlier this year, Turner was recognized as the 2024 Parker’s Kitchen District Store Leader of the Year for District C. “Receiving this award was my most memorable moment at Parker’s Kitchen. I work very hard and was thrilled to be recognized as a top store leader in the company,” she said.

Turner spoke with NACS about:

Why she loves working in convenience

I love working in the convenience industry because I love the fast-paced environment, and most of all I love the customers. I consider myself a people person and, in convenience, you come across so many people.

I love creating a great customer experience for my regulars as well as my new customers. I spend much of my day leading, training and developing my team, keeping the Parker’s Kitchen hot bar stocked and making sure we have plenty of hot and cold grab-and-go food selections available for customers. I also make sure the store looks customer-ready by stocking grocery shelves, sweeping the parking lot and stocking coolers. I understand the importance of providing exceptional customer service to every customer and encourage my team to take that commitment to heart every day.

What she finds most fulfilling about her job

Being the leader of my team—I love to train and develop my people into future leaders at the company. I feel most fulfilled when I can see potential in someone and help them grow their career.

What she would tell someone considering a job in convenience

You will never be bored at work. We always have new challenges, which keeps it exciting. I’m a testament that if you work hard, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to. I’m proud to go from a kitchen associate to kitchen manager and now a store leader.

Parker’s Kitchen is a great company that truly rewards hard work, and I look forward to continuing to grow for many years to come.