Wawa’s Jason Read on Leadership, Career Growth and Authenticity

Jason Read reflects on his career journey at Wawa and Starbucks and the leadership principles that have shaped his success.

Jason Read, director of store operations for Wawa, knows firsthand that showing up to lead in an authentic way, listening to those around you and integrating feedback are important leadership skills that build trust, strengthen teams and help drive consistent performance.

Read joined Wawa 10 years ago as director of store operations, supporting over 120 stores on the Jersey Shore and South Jersey, along with nine area managers. His background includes 14 years at Starbucks where he held many roles, including director of operations.

Now he’s sharing leadership lessons with the next generation of c-store retailers. Read is set to give the keynote address on leaderships to an audience of young executives in their 20s, 30s and early 40s at the CStore Momentum conference, hosted by Chestnut Market, in Tarrytown, N.Y., Aug. 19-21.

CStore Decisions caught up with Read to learn more about his career path, current role at Wawa, leadership lessons and his go-to Hoagie order at Wawa.

CStore Decisions (CSD): Tell us about your career path and when and how you came to join Wawa.

Jason Read (JR): I was a college dropout who found the restaurant business out of desperation and instantly fell in love with the pace, the noise and being so close to the customer. I joined Seattle’s Best Coffee and survived the merger when they were acquired by Starbucks Coffee Co. I stayed with Starbucks for 14 years and worked in all domestic business units – Foodservice, Licensed Stores and Company Operated. I was recruited by a headhunter and joined Wawa 10 years ago. I love the c-store industry, my role and the company.

CSD: What does a “great day” look like for you in your role as director of store operations at Wawa?

JR: Spending time in our stores. I get so much energy from our associates and customers. Being in the stores allows me to hear from those closest to the customer. Their feedback and perspective are invaluable.

CSD: How would you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved during your time at Wawa?

JR: Participatory. I may be responsible for making the final decision, but I want to hear your opinion and respectful debate. If you think I’m wrong, tell me and let’s have the conversation. I used to make decisions without a lot of input — ironically looking back, they were either the wrong decisions or not the best course of action.

CSD: What is one leadership lesson you learned early in your career that still influences your decisions today?

JR: People don’t expect you to be perfect so be genuine and honest

CSD: As the next generation of leaders steps into larger roles, what skills, in your opinion, will be most critical for success in convenience retail over the next five years?

JR: Ability to accept and (take) action on feedback, and a genuine desire to want to improve your leadership and the lives of those you serve.

CSD: You’re giving the leadership keynote during the CStore Momentum conference. What are two things attendees can expect to learn from your session?

JR: During the session, you will complete a “leadership roadmap” that will help you understand blind spots that you can (take) action on immediately, along with a better understanding of how you lead.

CSD: What’s your go-to hoagie order of choice at Wawa and (without naming brand names) what are you drinking with it?

JR: Classic Italian, sour cream and onion chips and a sparkling water. Learn more from Read at the CStore Momentum conference. Retailers can register at CStoreMomentum.com. Supplier companies must sponsor to attend.