Gorgeous Girls In Supply Chain: Julie David
Welcome to our series celebrating the incredible women in Supply Chain and Logistics! In a traditionally male-dominated field, it's important to shine a light on the inspiring women who are making a significant impact. Through a mix of insightful and fun questions, we’ll explore their journeys, challenges, and successes. While we acknowledge the contributions of everyone in this industry, this series aims to elevate the voices and stories of women who often get missed. Julie David is our next feature.
JULIE DAVID
Julie and I first connected during a virtual networking event hosted by Supply Chain Social Club. We didn’t seek each other out, but several mutual connections insisted we talk. “Same vibe,” they said. And they were right.
Not only do Julie and I share the same energy, we share the same frustration with how education in this industry is often delivered. Too much jargon. Too much performative thought leadership. Not enough clear, practical explanations that actually help people do their jobs better. Julie is firmly in the camp of straightforward, accessible education, the kind that turns complex regulations into something people can understand, apply, and actually use.
Currently Julie is Content Lead for the Trade Compliance Academy at Skill Dynamics, Julie focuses on creating accessible, actionable training for trade compliance professionals. A proud compliance champion, she’s passionate about reframing trade compliance as what it truly is: a sales enabler when brought in early, not a last-minute roadblock.
What is your current role and company?
Content Lead - Trade Compliance Academy at Skill Dynamics
How did you end up in the world of supply chain?
I started working in medical logistics and facility management for the US Air Force as my first grown up job which gave me insight into procurement, receiving, warehousing, and distribution for about 6 years before we moved back to be closer to family in Thief River Falls. As with most people, I stumbled into the wonderful world of trade compliance. I applied on an open application to DigiKey and was hired as one of their first 6 Compliance Specialists. After 2 years, I received an opportunity to move up into a management role as an Export Trade Compliance Manager where I spent the next 11 years of my career working across business units and within the trade compliance team to interpret US export regulations and translate them into internal processes, conduct risk assessments when considering expanding business in different markets and regions, and provide training in the form of computer-based corporate training as well as in person outreach trainings to educate all areas of the business about trade compliance and their specific roles to the organization to create and maintain a corporate culture of compliance. I dabbled in environmental compliance where I helped interpret labeling and notifications requirements for REACH, RoHS, and CA Prop 65 among others. Now I have the opportunity to help create training materials in all areas of trade compliance to help other trade professionals do the same.
What is your favourite part of your work day?
I really enjoy collaboration opportunities. I am a HUGE compliance champion, so any chance I get to talk about trade regulations and their impacts...that's the best!
What is the least favourite part of your work day?
One of the perks of working for an multinational business is you get to work across different countries and cultures...the downside is the early days that are made up once we get on those calls and start chatting.
What is a systemic issue in your part of the supply chain that concerns you currently?
Trade compliance is a roadblock to sales growth and development. We are the "no" department and it's best to ask for forgiveness than permission when it comes to creating initiatives that increase the risk of export violation.
How would you address it if you had the power, money, or influence?
I'd love to see more corporate outreach and advocacy for trade compliance professionals, especially from those in leadership roles within organizations. The best way to do that is to educate everyone about trade compliance and why it is important. We really are sales ENABLERS. Bring your trade compliance team into the fold at the BEGINNING and there won't be any 11th hour shut down of whatever you're trying to do! I promise!
What is one piece of advice you have for young women entering your field?
Don't dim your light to help someone else shine brighter. You don't have to sacrifice yourself and who you are to be successful and amazing. That just means you're not in the right place with the right people to properly appreciate what you bring to the party.
What are your top 3 podcasts? (do not have to be industry related)
Red Flags Rising (on my list to give a go)
Who are your top 5 women in supply chain to follow on LinkedIn?
How do you deal with creeps you encounter in your work day?
I thankfully haven't had that issue in a LONG time, but I've been working in male-dominated industries my whole career, so I'm not without an example or story. I have found that the creeps
What is your favourite way to unwind?
Either crocheting something I saw on Pinterest or reading something I will never admit openly to reading 😉
What have you recently changed your mind about?
Pineapple on pizza...total yes from me!
Must haves to get you thru the day?
Coffee first and foremost. Your question below about hot or iced...not fair. Iced in the summer, hot the other 9 months of the year.
Water (sometimes with a flavor packet in it)
Music (depending on my mood, either classical music or my polyjamorous favorites list)
Fuzzy blanket (I'm always cold!)
Comfy pants! One of the perks of working remote!
Social media for Julie:
