Her Story
About Lailah
I've been in my field roughly 10 years. I'm an engineer with a background in industrial engineering and a master's in management. I started at Frito-Lay under PepsiCo managing frontline teams of over 50 people in packaging and processing. After getting my MBA from Harvard, I worked at Boston Consulting Group advising C-suite on supply chain strategy. Now at Cody in Hunt Valley making CoverGirl products, I handle senior planning, logistics, and master data for end-to-end supply chain operations.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lailah
01What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost God, I'm a woman of faith. Second, community because I come from community in Brooklyn where local businesses and people supported me as a first-generation college student to attend an engineering conference at UC Berkeley. I'm motivated to give back and empower marginalized communities, especially African-American communities.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You belong here. Do not be swayed by being the only woman in the room. Don't second-guess yourself. There's no linear track. Do something you're passionate about but know that you belong. It's not just a man's thing. You get to see your products in the store and be part of that story.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
As women, we need to be okay taking up space and speaking even if we don't have 95% of the answers. Trust your intuition. Even if you know 80%, that's a lot and your intuition can cover the rest. It's okay to be wrong and own it later.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and care. I can deal with someone making a bad mistake but not someone who's malicious. Your heart posture is very important. Bring your authentic self.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.