In today’s episode of Women in Supply Chain, I’m joined by award-winning industry leader, Annie Torikian.
Annie has been a driving force for efficiency and innovation in supply chain management for over 25 years. Over the course of her long career with Tecsys, Annie has spearheaded numerous transformative initiatives and served as a mentor for women, as well as being an invaluable member of her community.
Today Annie will be talking all about her career journey; her passion for innovation; the importance of balancing professional and social responsibility; and being named a trailblazer in the world of supply chain.
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. And we’re doing just that at this year’s Women In Supply Chain™ Forum, set for Nov. 14-15 in Atlanta. Go to WomeninSupplyChainForum to register and learn more. We’re all better together. Collaboration is key to promoting and supporting Women In Supply Chain™.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
[06.47] The journey that led Annie from Lebanon to Canada, and what she learned along the way.
“When I first came to Canada, I was really ready to embrace a new chapter in my life. I came looking for stability and security… It was a big shift… and it gave me a new perspective on life.”
[08.30] The surprisingly practical reason that led Annie to supply chain, and how she fell in love with the industry.
“Over the years… I realized how impactful and important the job I was doing was… As I discovered the complexities and global impact of supply chain, it became a no-brainer for me, I thought ‘I’m going to stay in this industry and thrive’… Sometimes, the most rewarding paths are the ones we never planned to take.”
[10.37] An overview of Tecsys, what they do, and how they help their customers.
[11.54] Annie’s role as Vice President of Enhanced Business Solutions at Tecsys, and how she became a driving force in innovation, spearheading initiatives and incorporating new automation technologies.
“Automation in itself is not a new concept, but there’s such a rapid shift in the technology that it’s become a gamechanger. And any company that needs to remain competitive has no choice but to deploy some kind of automation in their warehouses.”
[16.28] Annie’s 26 year tenure with Tecsys, how she evolved from analyst to VP, and some of her biggest challenges and achievements along the way.
“For anyone to stay so long in the same company, there needs to be an alignment between your personal and company values. For me, it was integrity, professionalism, respect and teamwork.”
[20.35] How supply chain and technology has changed over the course of Annie’s career.
“It’s cool to have a front row seat in this evolution.”
[23.07] With a historic lack of women in leadership, how the industry has changed for women.
[25.53] Annie’s take on mentorship.
[30.36] The importance of balancing professional and social responsibility, and why volunteering is key to good leadership.
“For me, it became an integral part of my leadership identity, and I think its crucial for any executive that wants to be impactful to do some kind of volunteering… You meet so many people, of different backgrounds, characters, and personalities… It sharpens your leadership skills and prepares you for complex roles.”
[33.57] Annie’s recent Women in Supply Chain Forum award win, and what it means to be named a ‘trailblazer’ in the industry.
“Never assume that you’ve reached your full potential.”
[35.17] The future for Annie.
RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:
You can connect with Annie over on LinkedIn.
If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from women who have moved countries and continents to excel in supply chain, check out 389: Women in Supply Chain, Carmit Glik, 326: Women in supply chain™, Paige Wei-Cox, or 275: Women in supply chain™, Amani Radman.
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