447: Women In Supply Chain, Nikki Driskill

Nikki Driskill talks about her career journey; the changing face of customer service; people leadership; & why women should pursue a career in logistics.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [05.08] How Nikki found supply chain, and how the industry has changed over the course of her career. “I started so long ago that when you looked for a job, you looked in the newspaper!” [10.59] Why Nikki’s career ambitions changed when she fell in love with supply chain; how she discovered a passion for people leadership; and why strong women inspired her to want to build relationships and make a difference. “I was very young and my intent was: ‘I’m going to take this role, and then figure out what I want to do when I grow up’… Then I realized I loved it. There were so many bold women in leadership roles - and I wanted to be them.” [15.38] Nikki’s experience of repeated mergers and acquisitions, and how they gave her opportunities to explore the industry and learn new skills. “Each time that we were acquired, things got better in so many different ways… I feel like I’ve worked for four different companies.” [23.12] How customer service, and its role in relation to wider business success, has changed throughout Nikki’s career, with the impact of factors like technology and new generations of workers. “A verbal conversation is good for relationship-building, but we don’t have that so much anymore with tech… you have to work differently.” [32.46] The importance of industry awards, especially for women. “It matters so much for women… We need to be reminded to celebrate each other.” [34.32] Nikki’s experience as a woman moving through a male-dominated industry, climbing the ladder, and holding leadership positions. [39.59] Why Nikki wants to inspire others to pursue a career in logistics, and why it’s such a good career choice for women. [42.32] The future for Nikki. “I want to spend a lot more time mentoring, and making a difference… I want to share what I have – and I don’t plan on exiting the industry, that’s for sure!”   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Nikki over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more women excelling in customer service and client experience, check out 437: Women In Supply Chain, Mercedes Pina or 415: Women In Supply Chain, Evin Sisemore.