Elevating Women in Supply Chain: A Conversation at DELIVER Europe

The session on "Elevating Women in Supply Chain" at DELIVER Europe sparked a dynamic and engaging conversation among a diverse audience.

The Power Panel

Sunaina, a global inclusion strategist, moderated the discussion, introducing panelists Amandine Bourdon and Beatriz Perez, two accomplished professionals with unique career journeys. Bordon, Head of France Last Mile Delivery and Returns at Decathlon, shared her experiences transitioning from operations to leadership roles, while Perez, Senior Manager for Supply Chain Development at PVH in Amsterdam, spoke about her global experience and the need for greater female representation.

131 Years Away

The conversation addressed the World Economic Forum's statistic that it will take 131 years to achieve global gender parity, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. The panelists emphasised the role of businesses in creating a more inclusive environment, discussing the importance of diverse hiring and promotion panels, active employee resource groups, and gender-blind resume screening.

The discussion then explored the role of leaders in fostering gender diversity. Bourdon and Perez stressed the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and training to empower women. They also highlighted the need for leaders to identify and address barriers to progression, ensuring women have equal opportunities.

The Confidence Gap

The concept of the "confidence gap" was examined, challenging the notion that women are less likely to apply for jobs unless they are 100% confident. The panelists encouraged women to embrace risk and believe in their abilities, emphasizing the importance of networking for support and guidance.

Personal anecdotes enriched the discussion. Bourdon shared her experience of applying for a job while nine months pregnant, highlighting the importance of company culture and supportive leadership. Perez spoke about the differences she observed between Mexico and the Netherlands in terms of female representation, prompting a conversation about cultural nuances.

Take Ownership, Seek Allies

The session concluded with a call to action, urging everyone to take ownership of their careers, embrace challenges, and be assertive in seeking opportunities. The importance of allyship and open dialogue in driving meaningful change towards a more inclusive supply chain industry was also emphasised.

This session served as a testament to the power of conversation and collaboration in driving progress towards a more inclusive and equitable future for women in the supply chain industry.