Rite Aid category manager wins National Confectioners Association award

CAMP HILL, Pa. — A Rite Aid category manager has won a top award from a trade association representing candy makers.

Rite Aid said Monday that Val Stansfield had received the 2012 Confectionary Leadership Award from the National Confectioners Association. The award is given to people who demonstrate "exemplary leadership behaviors in business planning and collaboration," the company said. Stansfield was 1-of-3 recipients at the NCA's State of the Industry Conference last week in Miami.

Stansfield has worked in the confection industry for 35 years, starting her career as a category manager at Rite Aid in 1998, overseeing food and snacks. Before Rite Aid, she worked as a senior buyer for Revco Drug Store for 12 years. She was inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame in 2002 and has been honored as category manager of the year by the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, receiving the same recognition from Rite Aid in 2001.

"I know I speak on behalf of everyone who knows and works with Val when I say she is very deserving of this honor," Rite Aid EVP merchandising Tony Montini said. "Val has a true passion for 'all things confection,' as well as those on her team and those she serves — our customers. We are proud to have her on the Rite Aid team and are thankful for her many contributions to our company over the years."