Cece Kramer Vistar, a seasoned professional in the food distribution industry, has built an impressive career at Vistar, a division of Performance Food Group (PFG). As the Senior Vice President of Sales, Kramer has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a relentless commitment to driving growth. With over three decades of experience, her contributions to Vistar and the broader food service industry exemplify her dedication to excellence and innovation.
This article explores Kramer’s professional journey, her leadership at Vistar, and her impact on the industry.
A Career Built on Experience and Success of Cece Kramer Vistar
Early Career with Performance Food Group
Cece Kramer Vistar began her career at Performance Food Group (PFG) in 1989, laying the foundation for a long and successful tenure in the food distribution sector. Her early roles provided her with critical insights into sales operations, account management, and customer relationship building. These experiences set the stage for her rapid ascent within the company.
Key Milestones
Cece Kramer Vistar career trajectory is marked by significant milestones that highlight her ability to adapt, lead, and innovate:
- Senior Director of National Accounts (Hospitality and Travel)
- In this role, Kramer oversaw major national accounts, focusing on hospitality and travel sectors.
- She excelled at developing customized solutions to meet the unique needs of her clients, strengthening their partnerships with PFG.
- Vice President of Sales
- Promoted to this role, Kramer was tasked with leading sales teams, implementing strategic initiatives, and driving revenue growth.
- Her work in this capacity showcased her ability to balance operational efficiency with customer-centric strategies.
- Transition to Vistar
- In January 2017, Cece Kramer Vistar took on the role of Vice President of Sales at Vistar, a leading distributor specializing in candy, snacks, beverages, and convenience products.
- This role marked a new chapter in her career, enabling her to bring her expertise to a division focused on high-demand products.
- Senior Vice President of Sales
- By October 2024, Cece Kramer Vistar exceptional leadership earned her the title of Senior Vice President of Sales at Vistar.
- In this role, she continues to shape sales strategies, drive market expansion, and foster strong client relationships.
Leadership at Vistar
Driving Growth and Innovation
As Senior Vice President of Sales, Cece Kramer Vistar plays a critical role in steering Vistar’s success. Her responsibilities include:
- Strategic Sales Leadership
- Kramer oversees Vistar’s national sales operations, ensuring that the company remains competitive and responsive to market trends.
- She develops and executes strategies that align with organizational goals while adapting to the evolving needs of customers.
- Fostering Client Relationships
- Cece Kramer Vistar is renowned for her ability to build and maintain strong partnerships with clients.
- Her customer-first approach ensures that Vistar delivers tailored solutions that meet the unique requirements of each partner.
- Market Expansion
- Under Cece Kramer Vistar leadership, Vistar has expanded its footprint in the convenience, hospitality, and food service sectors, positioning itself as a key player in the industry.
Collaboration with Key Executives
Kramer works closely with other senior leaders at Vistar and PFG, including:
- Sean Mahoney (CEO): Together, they align Vistar’s sales strategies with its overarching mission and objectives.
- Anne Vineski (IT Leader): Cece Kramer Vistar collaborates with the IT team to integrate technology into sales operations, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
This collaborative approach underscores Kramer’s ability to lead within a team-oriented environment.
Contributions to the Industry
Expertise in Business Services
Kramer’s work at Vistar positions her as a leader within the broader business services industry, which encompasses over 27,000 professionals across 1,521 companies in 70 countries. Her contributions include:
- Driving Innovation: Implementing cutting-edge solutions that address the unique challenges of food distribution.
- Mentoring Future Leaders: Inspiring and guiding the next generation of professionals in the industry.
- Promoting Sustainability: Advocating for practices that align with environmental and social responsibility.
Recognition and Respect
Throughout her career, Kramer has earned the respect of colleagues and industry peers for her strategic vision, dedication, and results-oriented approach. Her leadership style is characterized by:
- Adaptability: Navigating the complexities of the food service industry with agility and foresight.
- Collaboration: Building strong relationships within her team and with external stakeholders.
- Innovation: Constantly seeking new ways to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Challenges and Successes
Navigating Industry Challenges
The food distribution industry is no stranger to challenges, including:
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Managing product availability and delivery amid global supply chain issues.
- Evolving Consumer Preferences: Adapting to changing tastes and demands in the convenience and snack sectors.
- Technological Advancements: Integrating new technologies to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.
Kramer’s ability to anticipate and address these challenges has been instrumental in maintaining Vistar’s leadership position.
Successes Under Kramer’s Leadership
Under Kramer’s guidance, Vistar has achieved significant milestones, including:
- Revenue Growth: Sustained increases in sales revenue across key product categories.
- Customer Retention: Strengthening relationships with existing clients while attracting new partners.
- Market Leadership: Establishing Vistar as a trusted name in candy, snacks, and convenience product distribution.
These successes reflect Kramer’s strategic acumen and commitment to excellence.
A Legacy of Leadership
Inspiring Others
Cece Kramer Vistar journey from entry-level roles to Senior Vice President of Sales is a testament to her hard work, determination, and leadership. She serves as an inspiration to:
- Aspiring Leaders: Demonstrating the value of perseverance and continuous learning.
- Women in Business: Breaking barriers and paving the way for greater diversity in leadership roles.
- Colleagues and Peers: Encouraging collaboration and innovation within the industry.
Shaping the Future
Kramer’s contributions extend beyond her role at Vistar, influencing the future of food distribution and business services. Her focus on sustainability, customer satisfaction, and employee development ensures that her impact will be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
Cece Kramer has built an extraordinary career as a leader in the food distribution industry, exemplifying the qualities of a visionary and results-driven professional. As Senior Vice President of Sales at Vistar, she continues to play a pivotal role in driving growth, fostering innovation, and shaping the company’s future.
Kramer’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success in any field requires a combination of strategic thinking, dedication, and the ability to adapt to change. Her contributions to Vistar and the broader industry highlight her unwavering commitment to excellence, making her a true trailblazer in her field.