Series: Gorgeous Girls In Supply Chain
Welcome to our series celebrating the incredible women in Supply Chain and Logistics! In a traditionally male-dominated field, it's important to shine a light on the inspiring women who are making a significant impact. Through a mix of insightful and fun questions, we’ll explore their journeys, challenges, and successes. While we acknowledge the contributions of everyone in this industry, this series aims to elevate the voices and stories of women who often get missed. Let’s get to know Anya Aubry.
ANYA AUBRY
This woman is a translator of data, champion of SME’s, destroyer of deadstock, and supplier of strategies. Anya Aubry took 20 years of supply chain experience and launched L-Gato Corporation, a company dedicated to helping small and mid-sized brands elevate their supply chain strategies without having to hire someone full-time. She offers consulting and fractional services that suit each of her clients needs. She’s a mom, history buff, runner, and book lover. Here’s more about Anya.
What is your current role and company?
President; L’Gato Corporation: Supply Chain/Operations consulting and fractional services.
How did you end up in the world of supply chain?
Accident. I had decided teaching was not my long term career but didn’t know what to do next. I started helping a friend with her apparel company thinking maybe I wanted to do design. Instead-I fell head over [heels] for production planning and inventory management.
What is your favourite part of your work day?
When a plan comes together. SO satisfying. Also top contender for best moment-when you see the light bulb come on with a new process, idea, or analytics.
What is the least favourite part of your work day?
Pitching. Every company and every person is in sales in some fashion-but now as a business owner, I am actually in sales. Pitching does not come naturally to me-although it does make me appreciate seasoned sales professionals even more.
What is a systemic issue in your part of the supply chain that concerns you currently?
First, last, [and] always-bad inventory management partnered with systems that do not work properly [and] plastic.
How would you address it if you had the power, money, or influence?
Oooooohhhhh-I would add tax incentives or monetary motivation for companies to manage inventory better. Less disposals/write offs = more tax savings; also speed up the push against single-use plastics. I know many companies are tied to this because of cost but it’s really past the point of finding a new way. Love the refill cartons I am seeing but need more in the smaller volume space.
What is one piece of advice you have for young women entering your field?
Find a mentor. Try ALL roles in supply chain. If available-accept work abroad roles wherever possible.
What are your top 3 podcasts? (do not have to be industry related)
Who are your top 5 women in supply chain to follow on LinkedIn?
How do you deal with creeps you encounter in your work day?
Fortunately-not too many of those (knock on wood). There were more when I was just getting started on LinkedIn. I will block people who are rude or weird on my posts.
What is your favourite way to unwind?
Run or cuddle with my kid. Or read a non-fiction, history book.
What have you recently changed your mind about?
The benefits of blanket PO’s with certain system restrictions.
5 must haves to get you thru the day?
My kid
A run
Meditation
Laughter
Fresh air (appreciate this every day after some [of my]overseas experiences)
Social media for Jessica
