Associated Food Stores has named Jamie Stevenson as its new director of retail account managers.
Jamie started his grocery career in 1990 as a bagger at Lin’s Marketplace in southern Utah. He worked his way through multiple roles before managing the Lin’s in St. George. After nearly two decades in operations and management, he returned to Associated Food Stores in 2020 as a retail account manager.
“I came back because of the strong culture and partnership I experienced with the AFS team,” Jamie said. “My focus now is helping independent grocery retailers succeed by applying what I’ve learned throughout my career.”
In his new role, Jamie will work closely with retail account managers and store owners across the company’s 10-state service area. He described his leadership philosophy as “people → operations → merchandising,” emphasizing that strong teams create efficient operations and memorable in-store experiences for shoppers.
Jamie said he is most excited to deepen relationships with retailers and help them navigate an increasingly challenging industry. “Independent retailers are the heart of our organization,” he said. “I’m honored to help them as we strive to enrich lives one grocer, one family, and one meal at a time.”
His goals for the first year include advancing the company’s “One AFS” approach: retail-back execution across the value chain with a focus on people, retailer success and, of course, profitable growth.
“Jamie’s experience on both the retail and wholesale sides of the business makes him an incredible resource for our member retailers,” said April Rice, vice president of retail services at Associated Food Stores. “He understands the challenges our member owners face each day and can help them be successful.”
Outside of work, Jamie and his partner of 33 years, Betty, enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors and supporting their four children—Taylor, Keanu, Mckyer, and Khymana—and three grandchildren—Tatyum, Jayde and Kaleia. Their Samoan and Scottish heritage has shaped their passions for rugby, football, basketball, and community service. Whenever possible, the family heads to the ocean for surfing, tide-pool exploring and enjoying sunsets.
Jamie’s favorite meals reflect his heritage and family traditions. He especially enjoys Fa‘i (Samoan green bananas) with sapasui (Samoan-style chop suey) over rice—a simple, familiar dish that always hits the spot.
Thinking back on his career thus far, Jamie said the biggest lesson hasn’t changed since his early days as a bagger: “We’re in the people business—we just happen to sell groceries.”