Breaking the Mold: The Rise of Women in Supply Chain

Supply chain management has long been considered a male-dominated industry, with women struggling to break through the gender barriers and succeed in leadership positions. However, despite the challenges they face, many women are breaking down stereotypes and achieving great success in the industry. In this article, we will explore the stories of women who have overcome adversity and achieved great success in supply chain management, inspiring others and empowering women in the industry.

According to a 2022 report by the Manufacturing Institute, women currently make up 29% of the manufacturing workforce, up from 27% in 2020. In the supply chain, women account for 19% of C-level positions in the average supply chain organization, up from 15% in 2021, according to a survey by Gartner, Inc. While there is still progress to be made, these numbers show that women are increasingly becoming a more significant presence in these industries.

At the same time, the percentage of women dwindles closer to the top of the supply chain organizational chart. For instance, women account for just 11% of supply chain executives, the Gartner research shows.

The women succeeding at the top levels of supply chain and logistics took varied routes to get there but share several traits. These include an incredible work ethic, an enthusiasm for their jobs and companies, and the ability to be comfortable in what is still a male-dominated field.

One such woman is Christine Morgan, a supply chain executive who has been working in the industry for over 20 years. Despite facing gender-based discrimination early in her career, Christine persevered and worked hard to prove herself. She was eventually promoted to a manager role, where she has been able to use her skills in communication and collaboration to drive success for her team and her company.

Another inspiring woman is Denise Kopko Vice president, Operations, Supply Chain and Logistics at Veolia. Denise faced significant challenges as a female Supply Chain Leader in a male-dominated industry, but she was able to leverage her resilience and determination to build a successful business that has helped many companies optimize their supply chains.

These stories of resilience and triumph are just a few examples of the many women who are breaking down gender barriers and achieving success in supply chain management. However, despite the progress that has been made, there is still a long way to go in terms of gender equality in the industry.

To empower more women in supply chain management, it is essential to provide them with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. This includes mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and leadership development initiatives. It also involves creating a more inclusive and supportive culture within the industry, where women feel valued and respected for their contributions.

Women in supply chain and manufacturing bring unique perspectives and skills to the table, such as communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail. They also have a keen ability to build relationships and collaborate with others, which is crucial in these industries. t's important to support and encourage women in supply chain and manufacturing, especially as they navigate these challenging times.

This March 8th let's celebrate the achievements of women in supply chain and manufacturing and commit to supporting their continued success. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for everyone.