513: Women In Supply Chain™, Megan Rudolph

Megan Rudolph talks about her career journey; developing a team through hypergrowth; the challenges & opportunities for parcel in 2026; & finding inspiration.    IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:   [02.15] An introduction to Megan and Saddle Creek Logistics Services. [03.00] Megan's early career dream of sports journalism, how graduating during the recession led her to take a sales job at UPS, and what she found so fascinating about logistics. "There was a great structure. I worked under multiple female leaders – some of the people that probably don't even know how much they mentored me still impact me today." [05.31] How having the opportunity to wear many different hats helped Megan find her niche, what she learned from her time working for both UPS and DHL, and the experience that led her to discover the power of authenticity. [10.36] A day in Megan's life as the regional senior director of parcel operations at Saddle Creek Logistics Services. "There was an opportunity for me to delegate more, and that was tough for me… But, as the team grew, bringing in people I could trust really got me away from 12 meetings a day, and I got a more balanced workload... My team manages up very well, and I'm thankful for that!" [13.07] How Megan successfully grew her department through 'hypergrowth,' and her advice for other leaders looking to supercharge their own teams in 2026. "One of the best things that served me was hiring a diverse group of people that balanced my skillset. I'm pretty risk averse, data-centric, I want to have all the questions solved before we even hit go. So I needed individuals that were great at solving while in action…. Don't hire people that think like you." [16.00] Megan's perspective on the parcel industry, and the big challenges and opportunities she's thinking about for 2026. "Cost continues to increase year over year, for us and our clients. So the only way to really drive savings is through optimization." [19.26] What Megan loves about the industry. [21.01] Megan's experience as a woman in the industry, how she learned to trust her instincts and speak up, and why she's so passionate about starting conversations and opening up perspectives. [26.17] What being an industry trailblazer means to Megan, and how she's using it to empower others. [28.05] Megan's biggest inspirations in her life and career. [29.56] The future for Megan.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   You can connect with Megan over on LinkedIn. If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more industry trailblazers, check out 503: Women In Supply Chain™, Andrea Morgan-VanDome, 484: Women In Supply Chain™, Saskia Van Gendt or 470: Women In Supply Chain™, Melodie Van Der Baan. Check out our other podcasts HERE.