November Females in Food Spotlight Award: Sophie Michael, Corporate Brand Manager at Batory Foods
This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Sophie Michael, Corporate Brand Manager at Batory Foods, whose story captures what it means to grow with curiosity, lead with authenticity, and pour heart into everything you do.
Like many of us, Sophie didn’t plan to build a career in food and beverage—she stumbled into it. As a college student in 2021, she landed an internship with Batory Foods that would unknowingly shape her future. What began as a summer opportunity has since evolved into a four-year career filled with growth, challenge, and meaning.
“Food is at the center of human existence,” she says, “and contributing to its production and innovation feels both powerful and deeply meaningful.”
Since joining Batory, Sophie has risen through four marketing roles, now leading brand strategy for one of the industry’s most respected ingredient distributors. She’s played a key role in the company’s five-year marketing roadmap, built new partnerships that modernize their presence, and launched SMARTPOSIUM™, a digital insights series that has not only generated measurable revenue but also built community among industry leaders.
Her impact extends beyond metrics. Sophie leads with empathy, clarity, and care—qualities that have shaped her approach to team leadership. Watching her direct reports grow into confident marketers remains one of her proudest achievements.
“I try to show up with honesty, openness, humor, and encouragement,” she says. “Recognition and opportunity are powerful motivators, and I’m intentional about ensuring my team gets both.”
Like many women in this space, Sophie has also faced imposter syndrome—the quiet voice that questions whether she belongs in certain rooms. Over time, she’s learned to quiet that voice with facts, leaning on the encouragement of mentors and peers who reflect back her value. “Feedback from people I respect consistently reminds me that I do belong,” she says. “Having women in my corner—through Females in Food and beyond—has helped me grow more confident in my own voice.”
That sense of connection has become one of her greatest sources of motivation.
“I’m driven by impact—by seeing how my work connects people, strengthens a brand, or inspires innovation,” she says. “During challenging times, I find inspiration in the people around me. My colleagues, my mentors, and the broader Females in Food community remind me that I’m part of something larger.”
Through Females in Food, Sophie found not just professional development but genuine sisterhood. It’s also where she met her mentor, Kristin Vitek, who has helped guide her through pivotal career moments. “Confidence is contagious when you surround yourself with women who believe in you,” she says.
Her advice to others navigating their path in food and beverage is simple but powerful: don’t wait until you feel 100% ready.
“Say yes to opportunities that scare you,” Sophie urges. “Growth happens in discomfort, and you’re far more capable than you think. Every change is a chance to strengthen your resilience and discover new skills.”
Outside of work, Sophie brings that same energy to another stage—literally. A professional musician, she sings, plays guitar, and performs dueling pianos across Chicagoland and beyond. Music, for her, is both a creative outlet and a reminder of joy. She also gives back as a board member for Young Naperville Singers, the youth choir that helped shape her confidence and leadership early on.
Sophie’s story is one of curiosity turned calling, and of leadership rooted in both strength and heart. Her career continues to inspire not just because of what she’s achieved, but because of how she shows up—authentic, brave, and deeply committed to lifting others as she climbs.
Sophie, thank you for the way you lead—with intention, creativity, and community. You’re helping shape the future of food, one bold step at a time.
