11: Leading with Humanity in Supply Chain: Sousan Ortega on Culture, Communication, and Diversity in Supply Chain

In this episode of the She Supply Chains Podcast, Sousan Ortega, the Senior Vice President of Field Operations at Target, joins hosts Katie and Courtney to take us behind the scenes of one of the world's largest retail networks. Sousan reflects on her extensive career journey, breaking down the massive operational complexities of managing vast field networks and explaining why structural resilience is the ultimate requirement when navigating modern market disruptions. She shares her perspective on rapidly shifting retail consumer expectations, diving into how Target leverages cutting-edge AI and advanced automation to supercharge frontline efficiency. Sousan discusses the critical logistics of fostering a culture of high engagement and strict accountability across a massive, diverse workforce, emphasizing why crystal-clear communication and tight team alignment are non-negotiable. Finally, she opens up about her personal journey as a new mother navigating a male-dominated corporate environment, sharing powerful lessons on the necessity of self-advocacy and defining your own path to success. ✨ Connect with Sousan! 📱LinkedIn | Sousan Ortega 💻 Learn more on the topics discussed here: Supply Chain Dive - How Big-Box Retailers Utilize AI and Automation in Field Operations Harvard Business Review - Fostering Accountability and Alignment in Large-Scale Distributed Teams ✨ Connect with us! 📱LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/she-supply-chains/ 📱INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/shesupplychainspodcast/ 📱TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@shesupplychainspodcast 🎧 Call to Action Follow She Supply Chains on your favorite podcast app Leave us a review — it helps more listeners find the show Share this episode with someone you think would love it