Cyclum, a renewable fuel dispenser company, based in Cornelius, North Carolina, plans to build 400 travel centers nationwide over the next 10 years. Among those leading the charge is Polly Flinn, the company’s new COO.
C-Store Women (CSW) reached out to Flinn to kick off CSP’s new feature Take Five, where CSW asks c-suite leaders in the convenience-store space questions about their work and more.
How will you approach the Cyclum chief operating officer position?
Humility, energy and a go-getter with a vision.
Cyclum’s mission is to transform the travel center industry. Why now?
Motorists and professional drivers want a modern travel center experience that can deliver their needs today and tomorrow. There has not been a new nationwide travel center chain entrant in the U.S. for over 60 years. Transport fuels are in the early stages of transition to a zero-carbon future. We believe we have the strategy and expertise to provide fueling options no matter what type of vehicle someone drives. Cyclum NextGen Travel Centers will provide traditional fuels alongside next generation zero carbon solutions such as hydrogen and EV charging. Our travel centers will set a standard for convenience and comfort on the road with superior fresh food and a modern rest stop experience.
Your career includes C-suite roles at Walmart, bp, Castrol and Arco ampm. What is one piece of advice that you have carried with you into this new role?
“Grease the matrix. Be a convenor.” No matter whether you work for a big or small company, being a team member who steps up to work across the organization can create magic by convening your colleagues to take big and small challenges. You’ll find you can tackle what are thought to be impossible issues. It’s a game-changer for the organization as well as personally rewarding.
What are your must-have snacks on a road trip?
Sabritas Japanese Peanuts and Hostess Snoballs – a protein and a dessert! What’s not to like?
If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?
Performance-Driven.
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