Ken Branson has been a member of Houston’s Merchandising Team for six years. With a strong sense of responsibility, adaptability, and partnership, Ken has earned recognition as Merchandising Employee of the Month for Q1.

Ken works at the CHEF’STORE in Eureka, CA. This location is known to come with some unique challenges, and in his Houston’s tenure, Ken has demonstrated that he is the ideal person for the role.

The Eureka store is a bit more remote than many others Houston’s services, and it is also located in an area of California that is subject to some unpredictable natural events, such as earthquakes.

Merchandising Manager Jaime Alaniz expressed his appreciation for Ken’s ability to uphold Houston’s standards under these conditions.

“I am appreciative to have a merchandiser like Ken who can work autonomously in a remote territory with little need for supervision,” said Jaime. “His reliability is highly valued.”

Jaime noted how Ken approaches the job as his own personal business. He recognizes areas for growth, creating opportunities for more product backstock, displays, or additional shelf space for more popular items.

“Ken asks questions frequently to ensure the job is being done correctly and is constantly looking to better his performance,” Jaime said. “He consistently makes himself readily available for the store’s needs and their customers.”

Ken’s mindset of responsibility and taking personal ownership over his duties has helped build a foundation of trust within the Houston’s Merchandising Department, as well as partnership to  CHEF’STORE leadership.

“Every time I visit, the CHEF’STORE staff expresses to me that they can count on him to do what is needed for them and their customers,” Jaime said. “He always makes himself readily available for both store staff and to help customers, beyond our Houston’s products. He understands that he is an extension of the store, and his performance supports this.”

The Eureka CHEF’STORE recently had an earthquake, which resulted in damage to a lot of products, including Houston’s items.

“You can imagine how much cleanup was needed,” Jaime noted. “The store was grateful to Ken for helping in the cleanup ­– he even bought his own high-powered vacuum to help with the cleaning.”

Ken continues to demonstrate his skills as a supportive member on the Merchandising Team.

“Ken is always ready to take on the job with a positive attitude,” Jaime said. “He continues to impress me with his work ethic on every store visit.”

Congratulations, Ken! This recognition is well earned.

Runners up for the quarter include J.C. King (First Runner Up) and Asia Huska (Second Runner Up).

Read about our other recently recognized team members on the Houston’s Blog.