Her Story
About Nancy
Nancy Desai serves as logistics analyst manager at Lumens, Inc. in Roseville, California, a role she has held since October 2025. With 15 years in supply chain logistics, she specializes in data analytics, having progressed through roles in a 3PL rotational program, logistics engineering in the automotive industry, business intelligence in aerospace, and supply chain projects at Dexcom in medical tech before moving into e-commerce furniture. Nancy earned her degree in Production and Operations Management from Oakland University and holds CSCP and Six Sigma Greenbelt certifications. She credits her success to experience across multiple industries and capacities, guidance from mentors and colleagues, and the principle of reciprocity in professional relationships. Nancy values family first and prioritizes work-life balance, noting that her current company supports this approach, which has also made her more efficient and strategic in her work following the arrival of her child.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nancy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my experience working in different capacities and industries, which has given me the confidence to navigate my current role. I've also learned so much from great mentors, coworkers, and people on different teams. Reciprocity has been key - being generous with my time and skills, and receiving help in return from others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Early in my career, mentors advised me to ask for forgiveness instead of permission, which suits my personality of wanting to act rather than wait. Communication is also key - always write everything out and send an email to confirm agreements so there's a record.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be afraid to ask for clarification right away, whether from your boss or cross-functional departments, to avoid going in the wrong direction. Communication is crucial in supply chain since you work with finance, purchasing, marketing, operations, and IT. Always back up your ideas and proposals with data to tell the story and show leadership why your solution makes sense.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
As a woman, family planning has been tricky - I noticed fewer interview callbacks when mentioning having a child, and one employer reacted negatively to my pregnancy. It's still challenging in 2026. However, having a toddler has made me more efficient and strategic with my time, prioritizing high-impact work. Women don't get enough credit for the extra work at home, but it forces better prioritization.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Family is at the top of my list, especially since getting married and having a child in the last few years. Work-life balance is essential, and I've had to reshuffle priorities. Being smarter and more strategic with my time, focusing on the most impactful items on my to-do list, is very important. My current company values work-life balance, which is a big plus.
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