Karen Labenz, Dole Fresh Vegetables, BA '85
I grew up in the Detroit area and have been a Michigan Wolverine football fan for as long as I can remember. Walking through the tunnel and onto the field for graduation in the Big House provided the thrill of a lifetime and one I will never forget.
I completed my MBA in Finance at Loyola University Chicago, while working full time, a few years after I graduated from Michigan. This degree has provided me with a strong complement to my undergraduate degree in English. I have worked in the food industry since I was 14, scooping ice cream at Baskin-Robbins. It is an exciting and challenging field to be in.
I am currently the Wholesale Team National Account Manager at Dole Fresh Vegetables, working on our Value-Added Salad business. I have also worked at Kraft Foods, Hardee’s Food Systems, and Tone’s Spices.
The produce industry is fast-paced and ever-changing. Since the pandemic started in early 2020, we have seen our demand skyrocket as consumers eat more food at home and focus on their health. It is certainly a good problem to have, but we have frequently struggled to keep up with orders due to challenges with weather, labor shortages, and product quality.
I enjoy working with our customers, analyzing their business to find opportunities for them to grow, and selling in new items. I am proud to work in an industry that provides consumers with fresh, wholesome food choices.
Feel free to reach out to connect any time and Go Blue!