Gorgeous Girls In Supply Chain: Krista Guillory
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. Krista Guillory is our next feature.
KRISTA GUILLROY
When you meet Krista, the first thing you feel is warmth. She introduced herself to me at an event, and between that smile and her awesome attitude, I walked away feeling better than when I walked in. I’ve only known her a short time, but I’ve found her to be energetic, supportive and seriously passionate about what she does. Like a lot of us, she kind of stumbled into this industry, in her case by cold calling the owner of Kick Stops and impressing him so much that he wanted to see if her approach would work for Kick Stops too. Spoiler: it did. I’ve watched her get more vocal on LinkedIn, build up her skill set and keep putting herself out there to grow both herself and her career. I think she’s just getting started, and I can’t wait to see how she helps change this industry for the better. Also, she’s a fellow trash TV devotee, so if you need someone to dissect the latest Real Housewives or 90 Day drama with, she’s your woman.
What is your current role and company?
Hybrid- Marketing & Sales at Kick Stops
How did you end up in the world of supply chain?
I came from the credit card processing world. I cold called the owner (Brian) when I was interviewing with the GM and Brian was very impressed. I was told Brian wasnt someone who can be kept on the phone let alone get the correct answer from. By the way, that interview was for our sister company. I was doing so well at booking appointments for the SME, Brian wanted to test if my approach would work for KICK STOPS. It did and that is where my journey began in the world of supply chain.
What is your favourite part of your work day?
I love being the first one in the office. I grew up playing softball, actually I still play. So for me, being the first one in the office is equivalent to being the first player on the field. I am dedicated to my craft. Getting in early gives me the time to prep for the day.
What is the least favourite part of your work day?
My least favorite part of the day is when I strike out with a prospect. But just like striking out during an at bat, you review where you missed.
What is a systemic issue in your part of the supply chain that concerns you currently?
Each sites care about what happens on their dock in terms of speed, labor, damage, and safety. Corporate cares about standardization, approved vendors, contracts, and policy. Both of course are reasonable, but they’re measuring different things. A site can love a solution that corporate won’t approve, or corporate can mandate something the site has to work around. The decision gets split into so many pieces, one person doesn't own the outcome. It only takes one "cost per unit is more" or "that’s not in our supplier handbook" for the default to win, even when the default is costing more.
How would you address it if you had the power, money, or influence?
I’d start by giving load securement an owner. One person, or one small team- probably paired with packaging, responsible for the outcome across every site, with a seat at the table when policy gets written. Ideally someone who has history of loading trailers. Then I’d change what we measure. Stop comparing cost per unit and start measuring cost per load: dunnage, labor, load time, damage claims, and rework, all in one report. When the site and corporate are looking at the same scorecard it makes analyzing clearer. I’d also build a road map from pilot to standard. If one site proves something works with data, it shouldn’t have to start over at the next plant. I’d put supplier handbooks and approved vendor lists on a review schedule. A policy written five years ago shouldn’t get to block a better option today just because nobody’s revisited it. This wouldn't need a huge budget either. Based off my experience, this will increase efficiencies and cut waste.
What is one piece of advice you have for young women entering your field?
Don't be afraid to try something new. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. As cliché as it is, it is true, you can do anything you set your mind to.
What are your top 3 podcasts? (do not have to be industry related)
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'm pretty good at matching them. I typically respond with something that will instantly turn them away like "I just got a colonoscopy and the doctor printed out a photo. Do you want me to send it to you?" That one hasn't failed me yet.
What is your favourite way to unwind?
Watching trash tv! Real Housewives- Orange County, Beverly Hills, Atlanta, and SLC. Then there is the 90 Day Universe.
What have you recently changed your mind about?
Marriage- I use to not want to get married but I found my person I want to grow old and wrinkly with.
Must haves to get you thru the day?
Gym session social hour
Water
2 screen monitors
Protein
LinkedIn
Social media for Krista:
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