270: Women in Supply Chain, Sneha Kumari

In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain, I’m joined by the supply chain program manager at Amazon, Sneha Kumari. A Six Sigma Green Belt certified professional, who boats over a decade of experience leading quality supply chain and operational programs at several companies, Sneha is recognized as Operations Women Leaders by McKinsey and Co. Which doesn't happen often! She pours her passion into making the circular economy happen. Today Sneha will be talking to us about her career so far, how she went from engineering to supply chain, her experience growing up in India,  and why it's so important to highlight diverse voices. Plus, she’ll be sharing her experiences as a woman in the industry, as well as her words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.   SHOW SPONSOR: This Women in Supply Chain feature was made possible by our sponsor, Emerge. As a company focused on empowering and growing meaningful supply chain relationships, Emerge is proud to sponsor Women in Supply Chain. Through its freight procurement platform, Emerge offers solutions that enhance the spot and contract procurement process, enabling shippers and carriers to make more strategic decisions.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.27 ] Sneha's background, her childhood in India, and how she came to the U.S. [05.18] How Sneha went from  technology to a successful career in supply chain and her experience in both male-dominated industries. “Even though I was putting in more hours, I still wasn't seen... As women, we feel the urge to put in more hours because [our] confidence is already shattered." [10.34] Sneha's journey in sales and marketing. [14.48] How Crane Fluid Handling helped Sneha fall in love with supply chain and what others can learn. I have to give to [them] for believing in me, supporting me, and letting me lead multiple facets of supply chain. [16.45] Sneha's Six Sigma Greenbelt; what it is, why she went for it, and how it's impacted her career. “If you think from a quality lens, I think it's worth it! It helped me. It's a method to give an organziation the tools to improve their capabilities." [19.45] What Sneha is up to now and what she's doing for the next generation of supply chain. "I'm super deep into circular supply chains." [23.23] Sneha's recent passion project. [26.33] Sneha's perspective on the importance of elevating diverse voices. “I still don't see a lot of companies walking this talk. Great—we're talking about [diversity] more now, but I think it needs to be a part of business views. Otherwise, it's going to be very hard." [31.31] How mentorship and women played a role in Sneha's journey. [34.10] What the future holds for Sneha. [35.19] Sneha’s words of advice for all of the women following in her footsteps.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Sneha over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed finding out more about female leaders in supply chain, why not check out our other WISC episodes where I'm joined by powerful women who work at powerful companies like, Crocs and Starbucks. And if you're interested in hearing about diversity and inclusion - and why we need to talk about it - there's a whole podcast on that, too.  Check out our other supply chain podcasts here.