July 23, 2019

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Hailey Srstka, director of business development at Grand Prairie Foods.

Name: Hailey Srstka

Age: 26

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I loved growing up in Sioux Falls, and it is a great place to set roots down. It was an easy choice to come back once I graduated from USD.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

This city is downright amazing! As a young professional, there are tons of opportunities for me to grow and endless events to attend with my family and friends. I especially love spending summer nights downtown enjoying the shopping, food, drinks and live music.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite thing about working at Grand Prairie is how close and supportive we are to each other. I often refer to my co-workers as my GPF Family. I have received endless support when I embark on new initiatives within the company such as implementing a new document management system. Also senior leadership is always pushing me to excel in my personal professional development by encouraging me to join leadership classes and pursue my MBA.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I must give some credit to my older sister, which she has been waiting for. She participated in Leadership Sioux Falls with one of the owners of Grand Prairie Foods, Valerie Loudenback, and connected me with her. From there, I was intrigued by the fast-paced business of the manufacturing food industry and the strong culture of Grand Prairie Foods.

Describe Grand Prairie Foods in three words.

Caring. Driven. Laughter.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

This past year, I taught fifth-grade Junior Achievement, and it was an amazing experience to teach kids about business at such an early age. They even taught me a thing or two!

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

All my dreams came true when DSW came to town, but a close second would be to see the Big Sioux River cleaned up. Having a river going right through our city is a great opportunity to create new business opportunities and entertainment for families.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I have been lucky enough to be mentored by some amazing leaders, so in the next five years I want to continue to develop my leadership skills and eventually take on a larger leadership role.