405: Women In Supply Chain, Lalitha Rajagopalan

Lalitha Rajagopalan talks about her career journey; the experience of founding her own business; her passion for equality; & what she loves about procurement.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.40] Lalitha’s early years, and how she went from a degree in economics to the world of procurement and supply chain. [10.20] Lalitha’s extensive education, and her ongoing commitment to curiosity. [12.45] Lalitha’s time at Ariba and SAP; her journey of moving through various functions in product management and marketing; and the big lessons she learned along the way. [17.37] The role of sponsorship and mentorship in Lalitha’s career progression; the culture at SAP and Ariba; and how, and why, Lalitha built her own personal ‘board of directors.’ [22.03] Why Lalitha chose to co-found her own company after a lengthy corporate career, and her experience of making the leap. [24.08] An overview of ORO – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers. [26.22] Lalitha’s self-confessed ‘procurement geek’ status, and what she loves so much about the industry. [29.34] Why Lalitha is so passionate about diversity and equality, and what the industry can do to keep making progress. [32.20] Lalitha’s advice for women and other underrepresented voices that are looking to get into the industry, or take the next step. [36.27] The future for Lalitha, for ORO, and for the industry. RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Lalitha over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more female founders, check out 364: Women In Supply Chain™, Lisa Morales-Hellebo, 331: Women In Supply Chain™, Sylena Urbanoski or 275: Women In Supply Chain™, Amani Radman.