EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Danielle Gutierrez Stone
Danielle is an enrolled Winnebago Tribal Member and has been employed with Ho-Chunk, Inc. for 15 years. She is the Senior Director of Retail Operations.
➡️ What does your role as Senior Director of Retail Operations entail?
I oversee Ho-Chunk, Inc.’s retail division which currently consists of six Pony Express convenience stores and three Sweetwater Cafes. My primary responsibility is overseeing all aspects of operating the convenience stores and cafes.
Other duties include budgeting, analyzing, goal setting and strategizing how to achieve those goals, employee development and engagement, compliance and regulation, safety, implementation of processes to increase efficiencies that support our goals, project management, and keeping up with industry trends. 📈
➡️ Why do you feel working for a Native-owned company is important?
Native communities have faced a lot of challenges and disparities for generations, but as a people, we are resilient. It’s important that we continuously work together to build and support a foundation that will be here for future generations. I am proud to work for Ho-Chunk, Inc. who has accomplished so much and continues to keep our people a priority.
➡️ How has Ho-Chunk, Inc. helped you grow?
I have always been self-driven and motivated but wasn’t sure what I wanted to do.
Ho-Chunk, Inc. is a very diverse company that provides a learning environment where you can experience and learn different aspects of business throughout various industries. During these 15 years with the company, I have been able to develop my skillset and expand my knowledge in multiple positions and industries.
My career at Ho-Chunk, Inc. has allowed me the opportunity to provide for my family and complete my educational goals – all while gaining hands-on experience at work.
I will forever be grateful for the knowledge and experiences I have had throughout my employment.
➡️ Now for the fun question! What do you like to do outside of work?
My heart and passion are in helping others.
I am very involved in the Siouxland community. I serve on multiple boards including Junior League of Sioux City (currently VP of Finance), Girls Inc. Board of Directors, Boys and Girls Home, and Leadership Siouxland. I am also a member of Toastmasters, Top of the Morning Club. In addition to serving as a board member, I help and support multiple project committees.
I recently discovered a new passion and started my own business StoneReiki LLC.
I enjoy working out and have a love for running and yoga. I enjoy traveling and watching the sun rise and set whenever and wherever I can. 🌅
I especially love spending time with my children, grandchildren, and friends.
