Blog

Judy Knapp, Government Affairs Manager for Retail Business Services -- the services company of Ahold Delhaize USA -- was named to The Griffin Report's 16th annual “Women of Influence in the Food Industry” list in recognition of outstanding leadership, dedication and civic responsibility. Judy is one of numerous women selected as 2021 recipients for making a difference in the grocery industry, stepping out of their comfort zone and being brave in taking risks.

Judy, who joined the organization more than 30 years ago, said the recognition was “very humbling.”

“I enjoy the work I do and the industry associations I work with so when this type of recognition does happen it takes me by surprise and is really a great honor,” she said.

This recognition comes after a particularly trying year in Government Affairs as Judy and her colleagues worked to keep up with rapidly evolving regulations resulting from the pandemic.

“2020 was a year to focus on and keep up with ever-changing local and state guidelines. It was just a non-stop year, it really was,” she reflected.

“I took walks around my neighborhood to destress, that’s how I dealt with it!” she added with a laugh.

Judy said she wouldn’t have gotten through the year without our shared values of teamwork and humor.

“Those two rose to the top in 2020 as, together, we navigated extremely complex situations,” she said. “We kept each other grounded through humor and support.”

Based in the Portland, Maine, area, Judy spends her free time working out and training her German Shepherd, Mocha, to compete in Schutzhund – a dog sport that exemplifies tasks required of police dogs including tracking, obedience and protection.

Congratulations Judy! You can read the full 2021 Women of Influence report here.