Her Story
About Heather
Heather Huffman is a strategic operations leader serving as Senior Operations Manager at ACERTUS, where she specializes in process optimization, change management, and operational transformation within the transportation logistics industry. In her role, she oversees title and registration operations for fleet management companies, focusing on improving efficiency and modernizing paper-driven workflows through technology and automation. Her professional background spans insurance, learning and development, customer experience, and business operations, providing her with a well-rounded perspective on organizational leadership and continuous improvement.
Throughout her career, Heather has demonstrated a strong commitment to developing people, strengthening teams, and creating sustainable business processes. She has held leadership positions in learning and development and client experience operations, where she redesigned training programs, improved workflows, and helped transform subject matter experts into effective trainers and coaches. She also co-owned and operated Lena’s Social Club, a restaurant and catering business that reflected her passion for hospitality and community engagement. Heather holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from North Central College and a graduate certification in Education from Avila University. Additionally, she is a contributing author of Slaying Chicago, a bestselling book celebrating women who have overcome challenges and made meaningful contributions to their communities and industries.
Heather attributes her success to a relentless work ethic and believes that effective leadership requires integrity, generosity, and authenticity. She is passionate about mentoring women, empowering emerging leaders, and cultivating supportive work environments where team members feel safe to learn from mistakes, adapt, and grow. Beyond her corporate career, she has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to community service, including founding a dance ministry in Kansas City that served approximately 300 students. Inspired by mentors who have influenced her personal and professional development, Heather continues to pursue opportunities to make a positive impact while working toward her long-term goal of becoming a chief executive officer.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Heather
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my relentless work ethic and commitment to giving my best in everything I do. I take pride in working hard, staying dedicated, and consistently setting a high standard for myself and those around me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to never limit myself and to never be afraid to dream big. I believe in pushing beyond perceived boundaries, embracing opportunities, and having the confidence to pursue ambitious goals.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to own their power, use their voices confidently, and embrace the many roles they may take on throughout their careers and personal lives. Most importantly, stay true to yourselves, recognize your worth, and never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is adapting to evolving technology and improving operational efficiency. I work closely with the VP of Technology to implement more automated processes, while recognizing artificial intelligence as a significant opportunity to streamline workflows, enhance productivity, and drive innovation.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value integrity, generosity, and authenticity in both my professional and personal life. I believe in staying true to myself, treating others with honesty and kindness, and making a positive impact through my actions and relationships.
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