KeHE Unwrapped: Eduardo Castañeda
For our KeHE Unwrapped employee spotlight today, we are highlighting Eduardo Castañeda, an Account Manager for the Albertsons SoCal division. Eduardo is dedicated, motivated, and loves to help others.
Read more about him below!
Q: What brought you to KeHE? How long have you been with the company?
A: I’m very proud to have been with KeHE for the last 11 years, (December 2024 will mark 12 years) since the acquisition of Nature’s Best. I started out as an Order Selector in our Chino DC but always wanted to work my way into the sales side of the business.
Q: Tell us a little about your role at KeHE and how it’s changed over the years.
A: My career really took off when I joined the buying team as a purchasing analyst in 2012. I was intrigued by the supply chain and category management decisions I was involved in daily. I spent some time as a buyer, then in Trade Management with KeHE in the VMS/HBC realm before landing a position on the chain grocery side of business. Currently, I’m in an Account Management role overseeing the Albertsons SoCal division.
Q: How has KeHE fostered your growth within the company?
A: I must shout out the management team and leadership I have had throughout my tenure here at KeHE. They encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, and they fostered my growth through cross-functional opportunities and leadership programs. It’s great to have leadership that recognizes and encourages growth from within.
Q: What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen during your tenure with KeHE?
A: The biggest change for me was the acquisition of Natures Best in 2014. Since then, KeHE has onboarded multiple accounts, opened multiple distribution centers, and expanded the fresh program. It’s amazing to be part of the continued growth.
Q: During your time with KeHE, what milestones are you most proud to have been a part of?
A: The introduction of KeHE Cares® and the ESOP’s continued growth. It’s a great feeling knowing that when we do well, we also give back to others. It encourages us to do better.
Q: What has been your favorite memory during your time at KeHE?
A: There are many, but going to my first KeHE food show in Chicago would be one of them
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave behind with KeHE?
A: That I was optimistic, highly motivated, supportive and helpful to others. I have had the privilege of developing numerous relationships within KeHE, brokers, our retailers, and suppliers. I hope I make a positive impact in my work to make their lives better.
To learn more about KeHE, please visit https://www.kehe.com/about/.