From skates to plates — Camille plays a key role on our Foodservice team so that people far and wide can enjoy our delicious food every day.
Foodservice demand planning today is about more than accurate forecasting. It’s about connecting data, people, and strategy to ensure that meals reliably reach restaurants, cafeterias, and communities. At Maple Leaf Foods, this work is one way we bring our purpose to life: Raising the Good in Food.
Senior Demand Planner Camille Bridge has seen that purpose in action since joining Maple Leaf Foods in 2015. Drawn to the company’s values, she built her career across supply chain roles before finding her home in demand planning, where she helps bring Foodservice meals to Canadians every day. Along the way, she has also led the Women’s Impact Network, one of several employee resource groups that foster inclusive leadership and strengthen our culture.
In this Q&A, Camille reflects on her role in demand planning, the meaning of Raising the Good in Food, and how purpose-driven culture and inclusive networks help strengthen both people and the business.
What does your role as a Senior Demand Planner in Foodservice involve day-to-day?
I live between the crossroads of data, strategy, and execution. My role is all about balance — I connect data, demand, and people. I'm part detective, part problem solver, and part storyteller, at least that's what I like to tell people!
Day-to-day, I analyze sales trends, build and maintain forecasts, and collaborate with the cross-functional teams, ranging from marketing to supply chain to procurement. It’s really important that I work with all of these teams for every step along the way in order to make sure that the right products get to the right place and are delivered to the right people at the right time. In short, I turn spreadsheets into stories that help make important business decisions.
What does Raising the Good in Food mean to you?
I see two aspects to Raising the Good in Food. First, I believe this means taking responsibility. We must make sure that all of our food is produced ethically and thoughtfully.
Second, I think our Purpose also means creating connection. Good food is a superpower — it brings people together, helps us celebrate joyful moments, and nourishes both our bodies and our souls.
We at Maple Leaf Foods are responsible for making safe food for people to enjoy all around the world, and that good food is the source of so many moments that foster connection and joy.
How do you Raise the Good in Food in your everyday life — inside and outside of work?
At work, I do this by always keeping our consumers in mind. Every forecast I create or maintain impacts families, dinner tables, and communities everywhere. I’m proud to play just a small role in helping to create those special moments for people.
Outside of work, I'm raising three kids under seven years old, so ‘Raising the Good in Food’ happens daily, sometimes in the most organized but chaotic way. When I’m cooking for my kids, I focus on balance and providing wholesome meals. I also like to teach my kids where the food they eat comes from. Since farms are easily accessible where we live, we often go and visit the ones where animals and crops are raised. I want them to learn why it matters where we get our food from.
How do you inspire others to Raise the Good in Food?
It's definitely when I swap recipes with friends, family, or colleagues. I love to share the goodness of food — especially quick and easy recipes to whip up for my busy family.
I also like to spark inspiration when I’m talking with others about what to make for dinner, it’s a decision we all need to make nearly every day! When it comes to chatting about what products to buy or where to buy it from, I always mention, ‘hey, what about that Maple Leaf® Prime® chicken?’
Speaking of what to make for dinner… what’s your favourite product from our family of brands and how do you prepare it?
I have two favourites because it's too tough for me to choose just one — that’s like choosing a favourite kid!
First, I love the Mina® boneless chicken thighs because they have the richest flavour and a higher fat content so they taste better. They're also cost-effective and are very versatile in what I can cook with them. From making a stir fry or shawarma to jerk chicken wraps or curry chicken, the results are endless and they're always delicious.
My second go to is also Mina® and it’s the Halal Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks. I like to pair that with basmati rice or naan and a salad. This ready-to-cook product creates an absolutely delicious meal!
You’re a co-lead of our employee resource group, The Women’s Impact Network (WIN). What does leading this group of women mean to you, and how has your involvement over the years enriched your experience at our organization?
Leading the Women’s Impact Network has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career at Maple Leaf Foods. Our purpose is to create space for women — and those who identify as women — to feel supported, connected, and empowered to grow. Together, we nourish each other’s journeys, seasoning our careers with purpose, opportunity, and care, so that each of us may rise to our fullest potential.It's about building a community where people can share experiences, learn from one another, and develop the confidence to take on new challenges.
In addition to co-leading WIN, I’ve also been an active member of The Multicultural Advocacy Network (MultiCAN) for several years. Being part of both of these groups has expanded my network across the company and exposed me to fresh perspectives and ideas. It has reinforced how vital it is for organizations to invest in employee resource groups — not only to foster belonging, but to strengthen culture, spark innovation, and build future leaders. These experiences have enriched my journey by allowing me to contribute to a more inclusive workplace while continuing to grow personally and professionally.
