PHILADELPHIA — Joy Errico has led Rite Aid’s internal and external communications team for more than two years, driving consumer and corporate messaging and crisis communications.

She also recently took on the role of president of Rite Aid Healthy Futures, a public charity dedicated to uplifting communities through equitable access to the things they need most. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to flesh out the communications team and function, and consequently, give the company a more cohesive voice.

“Our team has also discovered innovative and more effective methods of reaching associates — the heart of our company — including developing a new podcast for internal employees called The Front Line and implementing a strategic approach when communicating change to associates,” she says.

Joy Errico

Through all of this, Errico says she has learned many valuable lessons: “The list is long, but my favorites are: Always come with a solution versus a problem. Developing genuine relationships with colleagues and partners should always be your No. 1 priority, as everything flows from there. You always do your best work when you lean into your authentic self. Control what you can control — focus on doing the best job you can and adding the most value versus comparing yourself to others, as that is energy that could be spent on improving yourself. Show appreciation as much as you can — it means more than you know. Skill alone is not enough to move up to the next level — emotional intelligence is the key to success.”

She is currently Rite Aid’s chief corporate affairs and communications officer, having been promoted from chief communications officer in November. She oversees key elements of Rite Aid’s brand and reputation, including leadership of the internal and external communications teams; public relations; Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG); the relationship between the company and Rite Aid Healthy Futures; and event management. Her mission is to enhance and protect the Rite Aid brand and to foster trust and establish credibility with all company stakeholders, both internal and external.

“The most rewarding part of my role is when I can shine a bright light on the positive impact our associates have on our customers every day,” she comments. “Our pharmacists and retail associates deliver products and health care services with compassion and a personalized touch, which is really rare to find in a retailer today.”

When she joined Rite Aid in early 2022, the company had a smaller communications team, with only one person in external communications, but Errico has since advocated for a more robust team to manage corporate reputation.