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Time is but a Number

Mary Burich | October 17, 2022

People | Pride of the Jersey

Heather Lambert earns the jersey in record time

While touring Lloyd’s Barbeque Company (Mendota Heights, Minn.) during her interview for the human resources assistant role, Heather Lambert couldn’t help but notice some photos on the wall. The images depicted recipients of the Pride of the Jersey award. The prestigious award lingered in her memory more than anything else from her interview, she says.

A mere three and a half months later, Heather walked into a conference room just like she does for any other meeting. However, this gathering was one she would remember for the rest of her career. Miguel Aparicio, Heather’s supervisor, was on hand to give her the Pride of the Jersey – the same award that left a lasting impression during her tour of the location.

“I was so honored, because out of everything in my interview, I remembered the jersey most. So, to receive it myself, made it the proudest moment of my life,” Heather says.

According to Miguel, Heather exemplifies all the Hormel Foods Cultural Beliefs. Despite her short tenure, she doesn’t hesitate to dive in headfirst.

“Heather has been incredibly helpful because of her dedication to the company and her flexibility when it’s needed in just a moment’s notice. Every day I am impressed by what she can do, and I am proud to see how far she has come,” says Miguel.

As a human resources assistant, Heather has taken on projects like revamping the Lloyd’s Barbeque interviewing and onboarding process, taking over the team’s quarterly newsletter, celebrating the quality and safety team member of the month, and completing new-hire and safety trainings. She also serves on the enrichment and recognition committee and safety committee.

Every day I am impressed by what she can do, and I am proud to see how far she has come

Miguel Aparicio, Human Resources Business Partner

Prior to joining Lloyd’s Barbeque, Heather worked for 18 years for the city of Bloomington. She left the position in June 2020 when she was named the Supreme Queen of the Daughters of the Nile, an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of women of all ages and raising money for the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Heather spent a year in the role, traveling the country and visiting local organizations. By the end of her stint, she had helped raise $1.7 million for the hospitals.

Heather is a graduate of the University of New Mexico, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English and political science. She is married to her “favorite person in the world,” her husband, Grant. They live in Apple Valley, Minn., only two miles away from where she grew up.

Staying busy is no problem for Heather, as she remains a lifelong member of the Daughters of the Nile organization. She enjoys travel and dining out – particularly loving Murray’s, a Minneapolis steakhouse, on special occasions.

Heather looks forward to a bright future with Hormel Foods, saying that receiving the jersey motivates her to do even better within her role.

“I consider working for Lloyd’s Barbeque such a blessing,” says Heather. “I’ve never had a job before where I’m so excited to work and see my co-workers.”