470: Women In Supply Chain™, Melodie Van Der Baan
Melodie Van Der Baan is the award-winning co-founder and CEO of Max Retail. Her career began on the front lines of retail as a distributor and store owner, where she experienced the critical challenge of excess inventory firsthand. This deep industry knowledge drove her to create Max Retail, a technology platform that connects independent retailers to solve this problem. A trailblazer and working mother, Melodie advocates for a "lift while we climb" philosophy, emphasizing mentorship, authenticity, and the power of experience over formal education.
In today’s episode of Women In Supply Chain™, I’m joined by award-winning co-founder and CEO and self-confessed lover of people and possibilities, Melodie Van Der Baan.
An industry trailblazer, Melodie’s journey began as a distributor and independent retailer. And, driven by her entrepreneurial spirit and everything she learned, she went on to co-found Max Retail, a platform that empowers brands to free up cash and clear out stale inventory.
Today Melodie will be talking all about her career journey; juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship; embracing a ‘we lift while we climb’ approach to growth; and understanding the intricate dance between supply and demand.
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.
The early years of Melodie’s career, why she fell in love with retail, and how her experiences laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial journey.
Why Melodie chose not to go to college, her Mother’s words of advice, and why she decided to open her own retail store.
Melodie’s experience as a working Mom, setting an example for her daughter, and why experience is the best teacher.
Melodie’s advice for parents struggling with work/life balance, and why consistency is key.
How Melodie developed a unique understanding of the intricate dance between supply and demand, the biggest challenges faced by retailers and distributors, and why understanding your inventory is crucial.
Why Melodie moved from retail to technology, an overview of her business Max Retail, and how she brings retail experts and tech leaders together to solve the biggest industry challenges.
Melodie’s experience as a woman navigating the worlds of retail, technology and supply chain, and her uniquely positive outlook.
Melodie’s commitment to taking a ‘we lift while we climb’ approach, the role others have played in her success, and how she pays it forward.
Melodie’s biggest achievements, personally and professionally, and the passion that drives them.
The future for Melodie, and for Max Retail.
Resources & Links Mentioned
- You can connect with Melodie Van Der Baan over on LinkedIn.
- If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear the experiences of other hard-working Moms, check out 464: Women In Supply Chain™, Beverly Steele, 359: Women In Supply Chain™, Alexis Mizell-Pleasant or 425: Women In Supply Chain™, Josephine Coombe.
- Check out our other podcasts HERE.
