Jim Dorey ’92

The importance of building strong customer relationships that go beyond a simple sale is a lesson Jim Dorey ’92 never forgets from his Montclair State University education. Dorey graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting.

Putting that lesson to work opened the door to opportunities that ultimately led him to his current role as president of Price Rite Marketplace, a 65-store grocery chain based in Keasbey, New Jersey.

Dorey says the same idea lends itself well to building a career.

“I’ve learned firsthand the importance of being outgoing, meeting people and really listening to what those people have to say,” he said. “If you surround yourself with good people, your path will work out fine.”

Growing up in his family’s deli and pizza business in West Orange, New Jersey, Dorey knew he wanted to pursue business. He majored in accounting to better understand how businesses work.

Dorey started a small business with his brothers following graduation before navigating a variety of sales roles, often finding opportunities through customer connections. A connection with a Wakefern Food Corp. executive turned into a job identifying store locations for the nation’s largest supermarket cooperative. He soon moved through the company’s divisions, ultimately working for its Price Rite subsidiary.

Dorey, who has been a guest lecturer for marketing, said he has been impressed with the school’s new development and hopes to help students take advantage of the resources offered on campus and through its alumni network.

“Our careers evolve with the help of people we met along the way,” he said. “A lot of people reached out to help pull me up and that’s what I want to do. I consider it a privilege and obligation to help others in any way that I can.”