Research shows that companies in the top quartile for executive-team gender diversity were 21% “more likely to experience above-average profitability than companies in the fourth quartile.” You have to wonder: Why are we not seeing more progress?
Women face challenges, stubborn stereotypes, and stigmas that are roadblocks to their advancement. Understanding those dynamics is the first step toward a more equal and productive workplace.
This week’s episode is all about how immigrant women can be pulled up to senior leadership roles. I discussed extensively with Alma Arzate how she is making way for other women and giving other women a chance.
Alma Arzate is currently a Director, Global Supply Chain Logistics at Apotex Inc. Alma has over two decades of broad experience across global supply chain and operations in the Automotive, Electronics, Medical Devices, Consumer Packaged Goods and Pharmaceutical industries, which she leverages every day to support multiple supply chain, education, women and immigrant-related initiatives.
Despite her sometimes-hectic schedule, Alma volunteers extensively as a keynote speaker and panelist for many Universities, Colleges, Associations, and Canadian Immigrant Settlement Organizations. Alma’s hope is that her audience will relate to her, learn from her journey and the many obstacles she has had to overcome to find her voice and be recognized as a leader in male-dominated industries and professions, and through ongoing dialogue, they will also be inspired to find ways to continue to persevere, achieve their own dreams, and become the best version of themselves. Alma’s story was shared on the cover of the April 2020 edition of Canadian Immigrant magazine, as part of their “Immigrant Women of Inspiration” special.
Due to Alma’s business achievements and extensive altruism, she has been recognized by many organizations. In 2019, Alma was selected by Supply Chain Canada as part of their first-ever Top 100 Most Influential Women in Canadian Supply Chain. Her story was shared on the cover of the October 2019 edition of “Supply Professional” magazine. Alma was one of the top finalists of the 12th. annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards in 2020, and the winner of the 2020 Woman of Inspiration Awards issued by the Universal Women’s Network (UWN) under the category of Authentic Leader.
Originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, Alma relocated with her family to Canada in 2007. She resides in the GTA with her husband, their three children (ages 13, 15 and 21), and their rescued tabby cat.
This is one episode you should not miss and share with everyone you love.
Thanks so much for joining me again this week. Have some feedback you’d like to share? Leave a note in the comment section below!
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Special thanks to Alma Arzate for joining us this week. Until next time!
