In this Episode
Laura Maxwell, who graduated with a degree in industrial engineering when statistics were not in her favor (one in 14 graduates was a woman), shares personal stories that propelled her to success, the need to fight implicit bias in STEM education and career gender stereotypes.
For 31 years, Maxwell has held numerous positions within PepsiCo’s (Frito-Lay’s parent company) supply chain function, including a four-year stint in marketing. As she often tells young STEM graduates, “you may think you know exactly what you want to do, but I promise you it will change.” Her career path’s trajectory is due to her perseverance, passion for supply chain and trust in her colleagues’ and mentors’ guidance. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she believes it is fundamental to teach women at a young age that they can build any career they want for themselves, even where representation is lacking.
Additionally, Maxwell serves as the executive sponsor for Frito-Lay’s Women’s employee resource groups and is heavily involved in SNAC’s WinS (Women in Snacks) initiative both of which she believes are important vehicles to bring women and men into a much-needed dialogue about how to create a diverse and inclusive workforce.
SNAC Cast episode 8
Laura Maxwell, SVP of Supply Chain, PepsiCo Foods North America
