In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain™ I’m joined by Zera Zheng, an industry rising star who’s passionate about transforming challenges into opportunities.
Zera has a rich background in auditing logistic service suppliers, and a deep understanding of quality and HSSE requirements across diverse industries, which have enabled her to develop strategies that protect organizations from risks, preserve reputations, and prevent financial losses.
Today Zera and I will be talking all about her career journey; why it’s crucial to be open to opportunity; the importance of understanding risk; and what she learned from a big move from China to Europe.
SHOW SPONSOR
The Women In Supply Chain™ Forum was created by Marina Mayer and Jason Desearle to foster real connections—bringing men and women together to network, learn, and build lasting bonds beyond traditional conferences. It’s about strengthening pipelines, creating a community of advocates, mentors, and trusted peers. Similarly, the Women In Supply Chain™ Award was born from a need to recognize female leaders navigating challenges and driving change. Since its inception five years ago, it has grown to nearly 400 submissions, celebrating the achievements of women shaping the future of supply chain. Find out more at Supply and Demand Chain Executive.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
[03.36] How Zera began her career, going from University to a graduate program at Kuehne and Nagel, and how it allowed her to learn all about logistics.
[07.20] Why it’s important to try different things during your career, why Zera felt like she was getting a new challenge every day at Kuehne and Nagel, and the importance of expanding your comfort zone if you want to strengthen your capability.
“Don’t jump into decisions… Look around and see what could keep you interested… Success starts with passion.”
[10.42] How Zera came to specialize in Health, Safety, Security, and Environment.
“As a graduate, you don’t really know what each department is doing, you have to be open to the opportunity… That knowledge and experience, the things I did in the past, have shaped who I am now.”
[12.45] Zera’s move to A.P. Moller–Maersk, the types of projects she works on now, and the importance of understanding, and responding to, risk.
[17.50] Why Zera took an opportunity to move from China to Holland, the pressures she felt, and the support she received to help make it happen.
“We often hear that the logistics industry is men’s work and, especially for a security role – we see men with a background from the military or police. It was rare to offer this opportunity to an Asian woman.”
[27.37] What Zera’s ‘industry rising star’ award win means to her.
[29.21] Zera’s experience speaking at forums and on panels, and her advice for other women, from leaning into making mistakes to taking the time to practice.
“I still remember making a mistake as a child, when I couldn’t speak on stage… It reminds me of where I was to who I am now.”
[34.22] The mentors that have made an impact on Zera’s life and career, and the scientist that inspires her.
[38.00] The future for Zera.
RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:
You can connect with Zera over on LinkedIn.
If you want to find out more about Zera’s work at Maersk, read up on her Supply Chain Resilience Model or Risk Management.
If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more women who have made big moves for their careers, check out 207: Women In Supply Chain™, Shana Zheng, 450: Women In Supply Chain™, Jenny Perlitch or 275: Women In Supply Chain™, Amani Radman.
Check out our other podcasts HERE.
