First, let’s talk about what’s happening in supply chain now and how women leaders can help. Right now, one of the biggest forces reshaping supply chains is the return of tariffs and shifting trade policies. With new tariffs rolling out—especially between the U.S. and China—companies are being pushed to rethink where and how they source materials and manufacture goods. It’s not just about finding cheaper labor anymore; it’s about avoiding unexpected cost spikes and political roadblocks. That’s why more businesses are looking to nearshore production in places like Mexico or Southeast Asia, where trade relationships are a bit more stable, and also investing in a greater manufacturing presence in the United States.
Technology is also playing a huge role in this transformation. AI, automation, and digital tools are giving companies better visibility into their supply chains, enabling them to make faster and more informed decisions. Warehouses are becoming smarter, delivery routes are being optimized in real-time, and predictive tools are helping businesses to avoid delays before they occur.
And then there’s the customer, who wants everything faster, cheaper, and more personalized. The rise of e-commerce changed the game, and now companies are under pressure to deliver quickly without blowing up their budgets. Tariffs and inflation make that a challenge. To stay competitive, businesses are moving away from traditional, centralized models and building more flexible, regional networks. It’s a big shift, but one that’s necessary to keep up in today’s unpredictable world.
Fortunately, there are plenty of talented professionals who are up for the task of tackling an increasingly volatile logistics and retail environment, including Women In Supply Chain™. Because rising to meet the moment demands diversity in thought and representation, the logistics industry has a deep and vibrant talent pool. Our Let’s Talk Supply Chain Women In Supply Chain™ program, blog, and podcast series highlight the powerful impact of a more balanced gender representation. We hope our Women In Supply Chain™ blog series motivates our readers to rethink what’s possible and bring people from different backgrounds together for deeper and more meaningful collaboration.
This month, we are honored to highlight Danielle Shuey, Vice President of Delivery at Loadsmart, a logistics solution provider. She’s a transformational operations, implementation, and account management leader. Danielle boasts a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business at Clemson University. She is certified in Change Management by Cornell University and was certified as a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) by APICS (now ACSM).
1. How did your supply chain journey start?
Like so many, I “fell” into logistics by accident, drawn to the pace, complexity, and opportunity to solve real-world problems. My career began with a one-day contract assignment involving entering NMFC codes into an Excel spreadsheet. It ultimately led to over a decade of experience across domestic and global operations, including an expatriate assignment in Asia.
I spent nearly a decade at C.H. Robinson before taking on senior leadership roles at Flexport and now Loadsmart, where I serve as the VP of Service Delivery for our Managed Transportation business unit. I’ve led global teams, scaled new business units, and built scalable infrastructure to support our customers and teams along the way. I’m especially proud to mentor women and advocate for equity in this space whenever the opportunity arises.
2. How have mentors played a role in your growth as a woman in supply chain?
One of my first mentors was also one of the most important. He gave me my initial opportunity, bringing me on as a contractor, then hiring me full-time, and eventually promoting me multiple times.
He believed in my potential, but more importantly, he helped me grow by delivering honest and often blunt feedback. He taught me to come prepared, to look deeper before saying something couldn’t be done, and to own my mistakes without excuses. These lessons have stayed with me and shaped how I lead today—balancing accountability with empathy and making room for others to grow.
3. What’s your experience working in a male-dominated industry?
Working in a male-dominated industry has challenged me to find my voice, trust my instincts, and advocate—not just for myself, but for others. There have been moments when I felt underestimated or overlooked, but these experiences ultimately strengthened my resolve and confidence. I’ve learned how critical representation is. Seeing women in leadership changes what others believe is possible. That’s why I’m committed to creating space for more women to thrive in this field and ensuring they feel seen, heard, and supported.
4. When did you find your voice in your career?
I discovered my voice over time through a series of experiences that challenged me to step in, speak up, and trust my instincts. Each new role, challenging conversation, or leadership opportunity helped me get a little clearer and more confident. I’ve learned that finding your voice is really about learning to trust it, even when it feels uncomfortable.
5. What advice do you have for Women In Supply Chain™ and others looking to start a career in the industry?
Don’t wait until you feel 100% ready because the most meaningful growth comes from saying yes before you have it all figured out. Trust your instincts, advocate for yourself, and don’t be afraid to take up space. Surround yourself with people who challenge you and support you in equal measure. And remember: your voice and perspective matter, especially in the rooms where they’re not yet fully represented.
6. Who do you admire in and outside of the supply chain?
I deeply admire the working moms I’ve had the privilege to work alongside throughout my career. Their ability to juggle demanding roles, lead with empathy, and still show up fully for their families has left a lasting impression. They manage complexity with strength and grace, often without the recognition they deserve. Their example continues inspiring me to lead with more intention and awareness of the many roles people carry, both inside and outside of work.
7. What have you learned on your supply chain journey so far and what’s next?
I’ve learned that I’m deeply resilient. No matter the setback—personal or professional—I’ve always found a way to regroup, adapt, and move forward. I’ve learned to trust that even the most difficult chapters often lead to the most meaningful growth. As I look to the future, I’m excited to keep stepping into roles that challenge me, allow me to lead with both strength and empathy, and to have a positive impact on the lives and careers of future generations.
8. What does this Women In Supply Chain™ feature mean to you?
Being featured in the Women In Supply Chain™ series is incredibly meaningful. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on how far I’ve come—and to honor the people who’ve helped me along the way. This industry is fast-paced and intense, but that’s part of what makes it so full of opportunity. I’m proud to be even a small part of shaping where it’s headed, and I hope that by sharing my story, others will feel more seen, understood, and confident in forging their own path.
Women In Supply Chain™: Empowering Your Journey at Every Career Stage
Whether you’re just starting or leading at the highest levels, our Women In Supply Chain™ membership programs are designed to support you in every career phase. We offer multiple tailored tiers to help you connect, grow, and lead within the supply chain industry.
Women In Supply Chain™ Connections
Build Your Network. Shape Your Future. ($199/year)
Step into a vibrant community where you can share, learn, and grow as a woman in supply chain. Whether you’re just beginning your career or seeking support in your current role, Women In Supply Chain™ Connections provides an essential space to connect, network, and thrive. For $199 a year, you’ll will:
What you’ll experience:
Dynamic virtual discussions on pressing industry topics
Exclusive access to targeted job opportunities through our community board
Meet-ups to build authentic relationships with peers
Bi-annual virtual networking events with industry leaders
A supportive community that champions your growth
Perfect for: Supply chain professionals seeking to expand their network and tap into a supportive community of like-minded women.
Connect, Collaborate, and Grow with Women In Supply Chain™ Connections
Are you a woman navigating the dynamic world of supply chain? Join our vibrant community and gain access to:
Virtual discussions on relevant topics
Community job boards and local meetups
Bi-annual virtual networking events
And much more!
Join today for just $199 a year!
Meet Our Sponsors
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: Supply & Demand Chain Executive.
About the Author
Naomi Sylvian is a content marketing leader with more than 17 years of experience, and the editor of Let’s Talk Supply Chain™’s Women In Supply Chain™ series. Her works have appeared on Forbes, Mashable, Business Insider, The Muse, and Yahoo, and have been mentioned by The New York Times Online. Naomi mentors at-risk teens to fight recidivism and contribute on a local level, working with the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections. Subscribe to her LinkedIn newsletter, The Chain Explained, for all things Supply Chain broken down with as many pop-culture references as possible, or view her marketing portfolio online.
