March 29, 2024

Hy-Vee Store Manager bringing store to next level

Scott Pearson has been on the job for less than a year, but already the Newton Hy-Vee Store Director has brought welcomed changes and additions to the grocery store. Pearson, who came to Newton after working in Ankeny and Urbandale, has seen a brand new truck given away, $10,000 awarded and brought back the popular sushi selection in January.

“In January we started with the sushi, it has been going really well,” Pearson said. “We have received a great response from the customers. It has been a big success for the store.”

The sushi counter, located in the kitchen next to the Hy-Vee Market Grill, serves up fresh rolled sushi every day, along with made to order selections. The addition is one noticeable piece Pearson has added since coming to the store.

Pearson came to Newton after serving in several positions including assistant manager of grocery, assistant manager or perishables, manager of perishables and manager of store operations for more than seven years.

Prior to working at Hy-Vee, Pearson was in the restaurant industry where he holds a degree in from Iowa State University.

“Restaurants is what I thought I wanted to do but I realized after about six or seven years that it wasn’t the route I wanted to take,” Pearson said. “I think the restaurant industry has definitely helped get me into this, a passion for food and customer service, that Hy-Vee prides itself on.”

Before starting in Newton, Pearson also completed a three-part training program through Hy-Vee University. In the program, Pearson took courses in retail services, business leadership and retail operation.

“I had just graduated the week before that I got this job,” Pearson said. “They must have seen something good in me that led them to believe I could run this store.”

Pearson said additional changes are coming to the store by way of the kitchen selection. New Hickory House comfort foods will replace the home style kitchen and include smoked meats and new sides. The chicken program will remain the same.

Overall, Pearson is excited about his time so far in Newton and is looking forward to the future.

“It has been going good. It is enjoyable, I’m having a good time,” Pearson said. “It can be stressful at times but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. There are a lot of great people here, great customers, I’m having a lot of fun.”

Contact Jamee A. Pierson
at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534
or jpierson@newtondailynews.com