In honor of March being Women’s History Month, it’s important to recognize women who are trailblazers and making outstanding strides when it comes to making a difference in their respective industries.  Not only are the women highlighted in this article leaders, but they are also role models for the next generation of young women coming behind them.

The Critical Role of Women in Marketing, Operations, and Leadership in Major Corporations

Over the last few decades, the landscape of leadership in major corporations has evolved, yet the importance of women’s roles in marketing, operations, and leadership cannot be overstated. Women, especially those in executive roles, have been key drivers of transformation and innovation in companies around the world. Despite facing significant obstacles such as unfair hiring practices, unequal pay, sexual harassment, and barriers to securing C-suite positions, women have continually demonstrated that their leadership leads to substantial business results. From increased revenue to stronger brand dominance, women in leadership roles are proving that diverse perspectives are not only desirable but essential for business success. In this article, I wanted to highlight 5 African American women who have inspired me in my career. However, I’d like to set the stage by demonstrating how impactful it is for major companies to have women at the helm in leadership roles. The data shows that women are in charge, good things happen.

The Power of Female Leadership: A History of Results

The data and examples are compelling. According to McKinsey & Company’s 2020 report, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability. This is not coincidental. Over the years, women have showcased their ability to deliver results in a wide array of industries, particularly in marketing and leadership roles where they bring unique insights and a different approach to strategy.
Bozoma St. John – Championing Brand Innovation
Bozoma St. John is a prime example of a trailblazer in the marketing world. Having worked at companies like Apple, Uber, and PepsiCo, St. John has gained recognition for her ability to lead with passion and innovation. Her bold, forward-thinking approach to marketing has led to the transformation of major global brands. While at Uber, St. John led the brand’s marketing efforts and successfully improved the company’s image after a period of intense scrutiny. Her leadership is often credited with helping Uber regain its footing and appeal to a broader audience, proving the significant impact women can have in turning around a brand’s narrative.
Rosalind Brewer – Breaking Barriers and Leading with Integrity
Rosalind Brewer, the former CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, made history in 2021 as the first African American woman to become the CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Brewer’s leadership has been transformative for the companies she has led. She is known for her focus on creating a culture of inclusion and her relentless drive to improve operational efficiency. Under her leadership, Walgreens saw a significant turnaround in profitability, market share, and employee satisfaction. Brewer’s ascent in the corporate world is a testament to the remarkable impact women can have when given the opportunity to lead.
Mellody Hobson – Elevating Brands and Shaping the Financial Sector
Mellody Hobson, Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, has had an exceptional career in both finance and corporate leadership. Hobson has worked tirelessly to reshape the investment landscape, with a focus on diversity and financial literacy. Her success extends beyond finance, as she has been instrumental in helping companies build more inclusive, forward-thinking marketing strategies. Hobson’s work has contributed to Ariel Investments’ growth, which now manages over $14 billion in assets. She has been an advocate for leveraging marketing and media to create awareness about diversity and inclusion, which has resonated deeply with consumers.
Susan Chapman Hughes – Leading Change at American Express
Susan Chapman Hughes describes herself as a connected leader. A proven leader of transformation and innovation, Susan Chapman-Hughes most recently was the EVP/GM of Global Digital Capabilities, Transformation and Operations (GDCT&O) in the Global Commercial Services (GCS) division at American Express where she led the digital transformation of customer experience and drove the use of big data, predictive analytics and machine learning to power the business Go to Market strategy. Prior to her tenure in GDCT&O, she led the GCS U.S. Large Market Business, leading the business from decline to double digit growth and significantly improving NPS, and, as head of Global Real Estate and Workplace Enablement, led the groundbreaking and award-winning global workspace transformation (Bluework).
Ursula M. Burns – A Legacy of Corporate Leadership
Ursula M. Burns made history as the first African American woman to lead a Fortune 500 company when she became CEO of Xerox in 2009. Under her leadership, Xerox made significant strides in its transformation from a document technology company to a services-oriented business. Burns’ leadership helped diversify Xerox’s offerings, resulting in increased revenue streams and a broader market reach. Her ability to lead through times of uncertainty and change positioned Xerox as a more dynamic, forward-thinking company.

Overcoming Obstacles: The Challenges Women Have Faced

While the achievements of women in leadership roles are undeniable, their path has been far from easy. Over the years, women in leadership positions have faced systemic barriers such as unequal pay, unfair hiring practices, and sexual harassment. The lack of access to high-level networks and mentors has further compounded these obstacles. Despite these challenges, women have continued to break down barriers in industries that were once dominated by men. The fact that women like St. John, Brewer, Hobson, Chapman, and Burns have thrived in their respective roles is a testament to their perseverance, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women Leaders

The success of these women highlights the importance of creating an environment where young women are not only encouraged to pursue careers in marketing and business but are also equipped with the tools to succeed. To continue the momentum, there are several steps that can be taken:
  1. Mentorship and Networking: Women in leadership roles must invest time in mentoring the next generation of female leaders. By fostering mentorship programs, young women can gain the insight, confidence, and connections they need to navigate the business world.
  2. Inclusive Work Environments: Companies must ensure that they cultivate an inclusive culture that actively seeks and values diverse perspectives. This includes revisiting hiring practices, offering equal pay for equal work, and ensuring that women are represented in decision-making roles.
  3. Providing Career Development Opportunities: Companies should create clear pathways for career advancement for women. This can include leadership training programs, promoting women to senior positions, and encouraging women to take on more responsibility in marketing, operations, and leadership roles.
  4. Sponsorship and Advocacy: It’s essential for both men and women in senior leadership roles to advocate for their female colleagues. Sponsorship goes beyond mentorship, ensuring women have access to critical opportunities that can propel them into top leadership roles.
In conclusion, women have proven time and time again that they possess the skills, drive, and determination to lead successful organizations. From marketing and operations to executive leadership, the impact of women in major corporations, and small businesses cannot be overstated. As we look to the future, it is essential that we continue to break down the barriers that women face in the corporate world, ensuring that young women are empowered and equipped to take on leadership roles. The achievements of women like Bozoma St. John, Rosalind Brewer, Mellody Hobson, Susan Chapman, and Ursula M. Burns offer inspiration and hope, showing that with the right opportunities and support, women can and will change the world of business for the better.
Now I’d like to challenge you. How can you inspire the next generation of women leaders. It will take all of us doing our best to give young people brighter future.
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Dr. Lori A. Manns, CEO of Quality Media Consultant Group, a business consultancy firm specializing in advertising, media and sales solutions for your optimal success. Dr. Lori is the founder of Trailblazer Business Academy;™ where purpose-driven entrepreneurs go to learn next level strategies to grow their businesses as well as, the Sponsorship Sales Secrets System;™ that shows you how to get more sponsors and sales for your business, guaranteed. To book consulting services on marketing, advertising/media, or sales and learn how to increase your revenue and grow your business; please visit www.qualitymediaconsultants.com.

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