450: Women In Supply Chain, Jenny Perlitch

Jenny Perlitch talks about her career journey; lessons learned as a woman & immigrant; and supporting diversity within the transportation industry.   IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [05.15] Jenny's journey from Ukraine to Germany to Cananda, and what it taught her. "It taught me a lot. All of a sudden you're thrown from your comfortable environment to one with a completely different language and culture… I learned resilience and adaptability, and they really helped me in business. It made me independent and I believed things could be done." [07.58] Why Jenny's computer science background is so compatible with a career in supply chain. "It's a way of thinking. I'll look at things as a problem that could be solved by building an algorithm. Take something complex and break it down into smaller parts, automate those parts, and put it all back together like a beautiful puzzle." [11.35] How a summer job became a lifelong career in supply chain for Jenny when she discovered a joy in pushing out of her comfort zone and a talent for problem-solving. [13.39] Why Jenny co-founded IRT Technologies, specializing in equipment for the satellite market, in 2011. [15.14] Why, in the same year, Jenny also founded Perlitch Transport, and the challenges of founding and growing two businesses simultaneously. "I was single, I had to do something!" [19.00] The areas of business Jenny is most passionate about, as a founder and CEO, and why it's important to recognize your strengths and weaknesses. "I really like the strategic side of the business. You try something, look at the results, and try a different way… But I'm very quick to do things, sometimes I lack patience… It's important to be honest about your weakness, fill in the gaps with great people, and then empower those people." [20.52] Some of the toughest challenges Jenny has faced whilst running her businesses, and her unique approach to overcoming them. [27.31] Jenny's experience as a woman in supply chain, and what she's learned. "It's a very male-dominated industry… You feel it very quickly when you're trying to get in... In the early days, when I had a good idea, a good vision, and I knew how to do things… they brushed me off, didn't take me seriously or let me finish. And eventually your voice becomes low and apologetic. At that point, you have to put yourself back together, and try a different door." [31.47] How Jenny creates positive and inclusive cultures within her own organizations, and her advice for other businesses looking to do better. [34.28] The importance of awards, and what they mean for the industry as it continues to strive for improved diversity and equity. [38.48] The future for Jenny.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Jenny over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more incredible women, check out 422: Women In Supply Chain, Kiran Mann, 437: Women In Supply Chain, Mercedes Pina or 207: Women in supply chain™, Shana Zheng.