In a remarkable achievement, Toby Pentecost has been named the 2024 Store Manager of the Year for Food Lion’s Central Division. This prestigious accolade underscores Pentecost’s dedication to leadership and community service. Having joined Food Lion in November 1999, Pentecost now leads a dedicated team of nearly 80 associates, serving the Scottsville community with distinction.

Empowering Communities Through Leadership and Compassion

A Legacy of Commitment and Leadership

Toby Pentecost’s journey with Food Lion began over two decades ago, and since then, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the Scottsville community. His tenure has been marked by an emphasis on building strong bonds within the community, ensuring that residents can rely on Food Lion during times of need. Pentecost believes that fostering trust and dependability is paramount. “The most important thing is knowing that we are there for our community when they need us,” he remarked.Pentecost’s leadership style is characterized by his ability to inspire and empower his team. He creates an inclusive environment where every associate feels valued and motivated to contribute to the store’s success. His approach has not only enhanced customer satisfaction but also cultivated a culture of personal and professional growth among his staff. As Vice President Scott Libbey noted, “Toby embodies Food Lion’s brand and values, leading with humor and always putting customers first.”

Making a Difference Through Community Engagement

Beyond his managerial responsibilities, Pentecost is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the communities he serves. He and his team actively participate in various community events and volunteer initiatives, particularly those aimed at addressing food insecurity. Their involvement with local feeding partners exemplifies their dedication to helping those in need. Pentecost’s efforts have earned him recognition as a vital asset to the towns and cities within the Central Division.One of the highlights of Pentecost’s tenure was the recent donation of the equivalent of 5,000 meals to the Scottsville Church of Christ, made possible through Food Lion Feeds. This generous contribution, honoring Pentecost’s dedication, underscores Food Lion’s commitment to tackling food insecurity and supporting its communities. Such acts of kindness reflect the company’s broader mission to be a reliable partner in improving the quality of life for all its stakeholders.

Recognition Among Peers

Being selected as one of six store managers from over 1,100 nominees for this annual honor is no small feat. Pentecost expressed humility and gratitude upon receiving the award. “It never crossed my mind that I could achieve something like this,” he admitted. “Knowing the caliber of Store Managers in the Central Division makes this recognition even more special.” His peers and superiors alike commend Pentecost for consistently representing Food Lion’s core values and embodying the ‘Count on Me’ culture that defines the organization.

An Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

As Pentecost looks to the future, his focus remains on continuing to serve the Scottsville community with excellence and compassion. He aims to build on the strong foundation laid over the years, further enhancing the store’s reputation for reliability and customer care. Pentecost’s leadership and community engagement serve as a model for others in the retail industry, demonstrating the power of dedication and teamwork in creating lasting positive change.