In today’s episode of Women in Supply Chain I’m joined by Christine Barnhart for a special episode in honor of International Women’s Day.
Christine has over 25 years of expertise in manufacturing, purchasing, planning, marketing and strategy. Recognized as one of the Top Women in Supply Chain by Supply and Demand Chain Executive, Christine was elected to the Association of Supply Chain Management board of directors in 2022, and is actively involved in leadership and education at several supply chain industry groups.
Today Christine and I will be talking about some of the biggest issues impacting women right now. We’ll be taking a closer look at what supply chain looks like for women around the world and discussing the disappointing results of Gartner’s ninth annual Women in Supply Chain survey. We’ll be exploring the impact of bias and changing DEI narratives on women’s progress, and putting the spotlight onto the women that inspire us. And we’ll be sharing advice and resources for organizations and individuals looking to empower women and close the gender pay parity gap.
SHOW SPONSOR:
Supply & Demand Chain Executive
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:
[06.01] An introduction to Christine and her new role at Nulogy.
[07.45] Christine’s experience as a woman in both US and Canadian companies, the differences in organizations across different territories, and what we can learn from the countries leading the way in gender equity.
“For me, it’s been interesting to compare and contrast what the culture is like in these companies, but also what regulation and policy differences there are.”
[10.38] The challenges for women in developing countries, the misunderstood areas of supply chain, and why data showing strong female representation across the industry doesn’t necessarily tell the whole story.
“When we look at developing countries in particular, they need expertise and strong leaders but, in a lot of those countries, it’s a very masculine, patriarchal society… They’re not going to get the results they need unless they bring women to the table.”
“It’s more than how many women. It’s what percentage are actually in a managerial or leadership position, do they actually have a voice? It’s about more than just opening the door and letting people in – it’s about making sure you’re inviting them to the table.”
[14.11] The impact of bias and changing conversations around DEI, and the importance of women coming together towards a shared goal and building ecosystems that make a difference.
“I look at representation – does an organization really represent the geographies it’s serving?”
[28.27] Some of the incredible women in supply chain that inspire Christine and Sarah, and the importance of opening up better methods of communication within the community.
[40.21] From transparency to empathy, Christine’s advice for organizations looking to empower women and achieve gender pay parity.
[42.38] Helpful resources, and the importance of female relationships, as well as of prioritising yourself as a woman.
“I love my husband and my children and my job. But I also need the time to nurture me, and to educate me, and to have conversations. Because I’m better in every part of my life when I do that.”
RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:
You can connect with Christine over on LinkedIn.
If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more from Christine, listen to 380: Women in Supply Chain, Christine Barnhart or check out her live show Supply Chain Unfiltered.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
