Emily Butterfield’s story with Whole Foods Market began in August 2008 as a Payroll Benefit Specialist at the Sugar House store in Salt Lake City, UT. Her journey, filled with personal challenges and professional growth, showcases the supportive environment and opportunities within the company.
After a few years, a difficult divorce led Emily to seek a more stable schedule, and she left Whole Foods Market in 2011. However, her new role quickly revealed that not all companies prioritize a respectful and professional work environment. After only one month, Emily knew she had to return. She immediately checked the Whole Foods career page, found her old position open, and reached out to her previous team leaders.
Returning in February 2012 to her original role and store, Emily felt immediately welcomed back with excitement and support. Within a year, she was promoted and transferred to the Trolley Square location in a Metro Team Member Services (TMS) role. Further transfers included opening the Draper location and then supporting the Sugar House store again. When the Draper store closed, Emily expanded her responsibilities to support the entire Mountain Region from Salt Lake City, UT.
While she cherished her team and stores in Utah, Emily always dreamed of warmer climates. Once her sons were grown, she planned to move west. In March 2022, after a smooth transfer process facilitated by Whole Foods Market, she realized that dream and relocated to Las Vegas, NV. Last fall, she was promoted to Senior TMS Business Partner, now supporting five stores across Nevada, including four in Las Vegas and one in Reno. This demonstrates the Whole Foods Market commitment to internal advancement.
Alt text: Exterior view of a Whole Foods Market store, showcasing its fresh produce and welcoming atmosphere.
Reflecting on her reaching 30,000 service hours with Whole Foods Market, Emily finds it somewhat surreal. She recalls hearing stories in panel interviews about long-term leadership journeys, incredible opportunities, and the recurring joke about “drinking the Kool-Aid.” She couldn’t imagine being anywhere that long.
“Well, look who drank the Kool-Aid,” Emily jokes. She attributes her loyalty to the company’s commitment to its values and its consistent effort to create dynamic, inclusive work environments. Emily emphasizes the value placed on Whole Foods Market team members. She’s learned and grown immensely during her tenure and is grateful for the exceptional leaders and mentors she’s encountered along the way. She believes that the people truly make the difference.
Alt text: A diverse group of Whole Foods Market team members collaborating and smiling in a break room.
Emily is so passionate about her work that she frequently recommends Whole Foods Market as an employer. In fact, her youngest son now works at one of the stores in Salt Lake City, where he enjoys his work and feels supported by excellent leadership, just as she has been throughout her career. This speaks volumes about the positive work culture cultivated at Whole Foods Market.
Emily Butterfield’s journey exemplifies the growth, opportunity, and supportive environment that Whole Foods Market offers its team members. Her story highlights the company’s dedication to its values and its employees, making it a place where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally. Her experiences provide a compelling reason to consider a career at Whole Foods Market.
