Empowering Women in Supply Chain: Insights and Advice from Industry Leaders

Introduction: The Growing Importance of Women in Supply Chain

The supply chain and logistics industry has long been perceived as a male-dominated field. However, the landscape is changing, and more women are making significant contributions to this crucial sector. According to recent data, women make up 37% of the logistics workforce, though only 14% hold executive positions. This disparity highlights the need for more female representation and leadership in the industry.

At FreightAmigo, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and success in the supply chain sector. As a digital supply chain finance platform, we recognize the unique perspectives and skills that women bring to the table. In this article, we'll explore valuable insights and advice from successful women in the industry, aiming to inspire and guide the next generation of female supply chain professionals.

Learning from Experience: Advice

We reached out to several inspiring women in the supply chain and logistics industry to gather their insights and advice for those considering a career in this field. Here's what they had to say:

Embracing Opportunities and Impact

Lisa Anderson, President of LMA Consulting Group, Inc., emphasizes the vast opportunities in the supply chain sector: "If you are interested in having the opportunity to directly impact customers and business performance—supply chain is an excellent choice! There has never been more opportunity to contribute to an essential field that is integral to jobs, the economy, our way of life, and can provide critical medical supplies and feed the world."

Kelly Barner, Managing Director of Buyers Meeting Point, highlights the far-reaching impact of supply chain professionals: "There is a complex, sophisticated supply chain associated with every item in your life. Supply chain professionals improve the lives of people they will never meet—simply by doing their jobs."

Continuous Learning and Curiosity

Rachel Premack, Editorial Director at FreightWaves, points out the ever-evolving nature of the industry: "You will never be bored as a logistics journalist. This industry is vastly undercovered in the mainstream press—but it touches on labor, technology, policy, economics, infrastructure, and any other imaginable topic."

Blythe Brumleve, Founder at Digital Dispatch and Host of Cyberly Podcast at FreightWaves, adds: "Each day there is a new segment to learn about—where products are sourced, the nuances of delivery, weather, recruiting, marketing, and sustainability. If you're motivated solving, you'll have a high-paying, secure, and rewarding career for the rest of your life."

Global Connections and Cultural Diversity

Lena Göthberg, Founder & Host of Shipping Podcast, shares her passion for the industry's global nature: "I love working in an industry where I can meet people from different countries and cultures and make a difference. I always meet people with a lot of knowledge to share."

Innovation and Sustainability

Lisa Morales-Hellebo, Co-Founder of REFASHIONED Ventures, encourages women to be innovative: "My advice? Lean into your curiosity and build the future we all know needs to exist to keep our planet healthy for future generations. And, if your dream job doesn't exist today, build it yourself!"

Overcoming Challenges and Self-Advocacy

Nicole Glenn, Founder & CEO of Candor Expedite, addresses the challenges of a male-dominated industry: "This is a very male-dominated industry which can be a little intimidating. If there is a role you'd like or a promotion that you feel could be a fit, ask for it. Always put yourself out there in all that you do—even when you are uncomfortable. It will take you very far in this industry. This will pave the way for you to take strides far beyond many others in the space."

Mary McNelly, Senior Director of Global Logistics & Supply Chain at Crocs, emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy: "No one will be a bigger advocate for yourself, and your career, than you – don't worry about being perceived as demanding, emotional, intense, selfish, or unworthy … aim for what you want and ask for what you deserve."

The Multifaceted Nature of Supply Chain Careers

The supply chain and logistics industry offers a wide range of career opportunities and experiences. Our interviewees shared their perspectives on the diverse aspects of working in this field:

Global Impact and Connectivity

Julie Zimmer, Head of Insurance at Flexport, highlights the industry's global significance: "Before working in this industry, I never gave much thought to how important the supply chain is. Now I know that we connect the world, support economies, and allow small businesses to thrive! What we do matters, and working to make it easier is so rewarding!"

Jennifer Colvin, Director of Operations, Track & Trace at Flexport, adds: "Whether you're working with global teams or taking advantage of opportunities to travel or work abroad, the skills you will learn in this industry working with people around the world will help you grow in your career, wherever it takes you."

Building Relationships and Trust

Danielle Shuey, General Manager at Flexport, emphasizes the importance of authenticity: "Don't be afraid to be yourself! Relationships are so important in our industry and trust is one of the key ingredients. Letting your guard down and showing who you are is a great way to build that trust, whether it be with clients, business partners, or internal stakeholders."

Problem-Solving and Cultural Understanding

Jennifer Alford, Global Key Account Manager at Flexport, shares her passion for the industry: "Working in supply chain has allowed me to further my passion in connecting and collaborating with teams across geographies, helping clients solve complex problems, broadening my knowledge of different cultures and socioeconomic systems while promoting global trade and improving lives."

The Intersection of Logistics and Technology

Nina Kaledin, Program Manager at Flexport.org, highlights the importance of female leadership in the tech-driven logistics space: "Working at the intersection of logistics and tech, I feel immense gratitude to have strong female leaders and managers on the Flexport.org team and in the Freight Femmes community. Their leadership has been integral to my personal and professional development."

Preparing for a Career in Supply Chain and Logistics

For those interested in pursuing a career in supply chain and logistics, our interviewees offered valuable advice on how to prepare and succeed in this dynamic field:

Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning

Beth Thorson, Head of Key Accounts, NA Sales at Flexport, emphasizes the power of curiosity: "Raise your hand often and use your voice. Intellectual curiosity paired with grit is a powerful combination in an ever-changing, high-demand industry."

Stephanie Morgan, Client Solutions Manager, ENT at Flexport, encourages fresh perspectives: "Creative solutions to our industry's challenges can come from anyone. You don't need to be an expert to have a fresh perspective or a good idea. Have confidence in yourself and your ability to improve your team or organization."

Stay Informed About Global Trends

May Chu, Senior Territory Manager, Partnerships at Flexport, highlights the strategic importance of the industry: "Supply chains are the lifeblood of world economies. You get to be at the frog line of global trade and can spot trends before everyone else does. It is a powerful and fascinating vantage point."

Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Courtney Kantowski, Senior Client Solutions Associate, ENT at Flexport, addresses a common concern: "Don't let imposter syndrome stop you! A majority of people at Flexport, and in the industry, did not have supply chain backgrounds. Our success depends on diverse perspectives."

Embrace Cultural Diversity

Kylee Marx-Booth, Senior Customer Solutions Associate, SMB at Flexport, shares her positive experience: "Working with people from different countries and cultures is the most rewarding experience! Even with time and language barriers, I've enjoyed learning and collaborating with teammates from around the world."

Develop a Broad Understanding of Economics

Rose Hogmire, Senior Client Solutions Associate, Key Accounts at Flexport, advises: "Keep a pulse on what's happening in the world economy. Supply chain is much more than resource management and logistics. We're always advising customers on macroeconomic forecasts and the impact on their supply chain."

Cultivate Natural Curiosity

Lindsay Quon, Product Marketing Manager at Flexport, points out the industry's relevance: "If you've ever wondered how your Amazon packages get delivered so quickly, or why your couch has been backordered for 3 months, you might find supply chains interesting. The pandemic has given me a newfound respect for this industry."

Darshana Rajaram, Head of Partner Network Development at Flexport, adds: "If you are naturally curious, always wondering what goes on in other parts of the world, enjoy connecting the dots, and love being a lifelong learner, this industry is perfect for you."

Embrace Challenges and Opportunities for Growth

Sofia Menendez, Product Marketing Manager at Flexport, emphasizes the global impact: "If you want to tackle challenges that have a global impact, and you're interested in learning from people who have diverse industry knowledge, you'll love working in supply chain/logistics."

Somjai Kijkla, Territory Manager, Thailand at Flexport, encourages women to leverage their natural abilities: "This is a profession that women are naturally good at, where you can use critical thinking skills. Challenges are really opportunities to grow your career, and if you're curious and adventurous that's an advantage."

The Future of Freight is Female: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

As we've seen from the insights shared

At FreightAmigo, we're committed to fostering an inclusive environment that empowers women to thrive in the supply chain industry. Our digital platform not only streamlines logistics processes but also creates opportunities for diverse talents to contribute and innovate in this rapidly evolving sector.

How Companies Can Attract More Women to Logistics

To increase female representation in the supply chain and logistics industry, companies should focus on:

1. Creating a supportive culture where women can thrive and advance in their careers.
2. Empowering leadership to make diversity and inclusion a key business priority.
3. Implementing comprehensive action plans rooted in celebrating differences and promoting transparency.
4. Offering mentorship programs and networking opportunities specifically for women in the industry.
5. Providing flexible work arrangements to accommodate diverse needs and lifestyles.
6. Highlighting success stories of women in the industry to inspire and attract new talent.

Conclusion: Embracing the Opportunities in Supply Chain and Logistics

The supply chain and logistics industry is ripe with opportunities for women to make significant contributions and advance their careers. As we've learned from the insights shared

At FreightAmigo, we're excited about the future of freight and the increasing role that women will play in shaping it. Our digital supply chain finance platform is designed to support and empower professionals of all backgrounds, providing the tools and technologies needed to succeed in this dynamic industry.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a transition, the world of supply chain and logistics awaits with open arms. Embrace your curiosity, leverage your unique perspectives, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself. The future of freight is female, and your contributions can help drive innovation and positive change in this essential global industry.

As we continue to expand our footprint and ecosystem globally, FreightAmigo remains committed to creating new paths for businesses and individuals to grow and thrive in the world of logistics. Together, we can build a more diverse, inclusive, and innovative supply chain industry that benefits everyone.