86: From the Shop Floor to the Boardroom: Supply Chain Lessons with Michelle Taylor

Jul 20
2 min read

What does it take to lead a global supply chain, drive meaningful business results, and create space for more women at the table?

In this episode, we welcome Michelle L. Taylor, a seasoned global supply chain leader who shares insights from a career that has taken her from the shop floor to the boardroom. Drawing from her extensive experience in manufacturing, quality, and strategic management, Michelle offers a practical perspective on what it takes to lead complex global operations. At the heart of her approach is a simple but powerful idea: supply chain leaders should focus on creating flow—not simply increasing activity.

Throughout the conversation, Michelle explores how quality and operational excellence directly impact financial performance, explaining why strong quality initiatives can protect EBITDA and create long-term shareholder value. She also shares lessons from leading across diverse global environments, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness, adaptability, and understanding the unique perspectives that shape teams around the world. Her experiences demonstrate that successful global leadership requires more than a strong strategy—it requires the ability to listen, adapt, and build trust across cultures.

Michelle also discusses the importance of sponsorship and mentorship in advancing women in manufacturing and leadership. She encourages women to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, build meaningful relationships, and seek opportunities to make their impact visible. From navigating mergers and acquisitions to influencing decisions in the boardroom, Michelle's insights offer valuable lessons for supply chain professionals at every stage of their careers. Her journey is a powerful reminder that operational excellence and inclusive leadership go hand in hand—and that the path from the shop floor to the boardroom is one worth taking.

Listen in for more can’t-miss insights from Michelle!

In this episode, we discuss: