In today’s episode of Women in Supply Chain, I’m joined by award-winning industry leader Maria Madrigal.
Maria is a results-driven supply chain leader and mentor with over 24 years’ experience driving operational excellence. As Director of Operations at WSI, Maria spearheads multiple warehouse operations, fostering a culture of collaboration and performance.
Today Maria will be talking all about her career journey; overcoming challenges in a male-dominated industry; her inspirational leadership style; and what she’s most proud of, as an industry trailblazer.
SHOW SPONSOR:
Supply & Demand Chain
This year, we received over 400 submissions for our Women In Supply Chain™ award, the highest amount of applications not only for this award but also for all of our awards. What’s more, 118 of those applications were submitted by male counterparts, nominating their boss, co-worker, or associate. Last year, that figure was just at 75. Also this year, 39 women self-nominated, a tremendous uptick from last year’s award, which just saw 12 self-nominations. This shows progress. This shows hope that one day, we won’t need an award like this because men and women in the supply chain will be equal,” says Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive. “While there’s still more work to be done, what we’re doing is working. That’s why this award is so important to Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executives. From truck drivers to CEOs, what these winners are doing matters to the future of all supply chains. What these female leaders, entrepreneurs, and supply chain professionals are doing continues to push the needle toward excellence, and every year, I feel blessed to celebrate these wonderful women of logistics. Go to Supply and Demand Chain Executive to learn more. We’re all better together. Collaboration is key to promoting and supporting Women In Supply Chain™.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
[06.56] An introduction to Maria and WSI.
[07.20] Maria’s 24-year tenure at WSI, and what she loves about the business.
“I built relationships, I just love WSI, it’s like a family… like home.”
[08.02] Maria’s first role as a window clerk and what it taught her.
“I saw a lot of disgruntled drivers, but that started my journey of building a thick skin!”
[09.27] Maria’s perspective on formal education within the industry, and finding the balance between real-life experience and academic learning.
“Education is important, but there’s no textbook that’s going to teach you what you learn hands-on.”
[11.27] The challenges Maria faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry.
[14.27] How WSI supported Maria in her journey to becoming their first female Director of Operations, and the role of both mentors and advocates in her growth.
[17.45] The three key qualities every mentor should have, and Maria’s advice for mentees.
“You’ve got to be brave enough to raise your hand – it’s OK to ask for help… And if you don’t ask, you don’t get.”
[19.25] The biggest challenge, and opportunity, for the industry right now.
“I know we have to be automated to be competitive… but, in doing so, the challenge is making sure we don’t lose the connectivity with individuals, that personal one-on-one touch. With automation, we lose that.”
[21.33] Maria’s leadership style, and how it translates to success for her team.
[24.32] Maria’s biggest achievement.
“I felt vindicated. The fact that I’m here, I am who I am now – that’s a testament to my success.”
[27.37] What winning the Women In Supply Chain ‘Trailblazer’ award means to Maria.
“For those that doubted me, here I am today as a trailblazer and a Director.”
[28.31] Maria’s biggest inspiration.
[29.27] The future for Maria, and WSI.
RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:
If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more inspirational women, check out 437: Women In Supply Chain, Mercedes Pina, 410: Women In Supply Chain, Julie Tilenius or 321: Women in supply chain™, Darcy MacClaren.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
