What: Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are creating new career opportunities for women in supply chain roles at The Estée Lauder Companies.

Why it is important: The evolution of skill requirements and inclusive leadership in supply chains builds on recent findings about the importance of adaptability and mentorship in retail workforce strategies.

Artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies are reshaping the supply chain sector, introducing new processes and operating models that open significant career opportunities for women. At The Estée Lauder Companies, half of the global supply chain workforce and sixty-five percent of the quality employee population are women, with sixty percent holding VP positions or higher. Berenice Vettore, the company’s global chief quality officer, emphasizes the importance of representation and the impact of the Women in Supply Chain employee resource group, which has grown from ten members to over a thousand across multiple countries and sites. Vettore’s career trajectory, from leading a factory in Brazil at age twenty-five to her current global role, illustrates the evolving landscape for women in supply chain management. She highlights that as technology transforms the industry, new skills and adaptability are required, providing a unique environment for learning and advancement. The article underscores that increasing gender diversity and fostering supportive networks are crucial for innovation and resilience in the rapidly changing retail supply chain sector.

IADS Notes: As highlighted in January 2026, artificial intelligence and automation are driving operational changes and workforce transformation in retail supply chains, requiring new skills and robust upskilling strategies. The sector’s shift toward automation, noted in October and September 2025, has created both challenges and opportunities, particularly for women. Gender diversity remains a focus, with recent reports from October and March 2025 showing progress but also ongoing gaps in leadership. Employee resource groups and mentoring initiatives, referenced in June and February 2025, are increasingly vital for supporting women’s career development. Leadership and mentorship, as discussed in April 2025 and January 2026, are essential for fostering inclusive and innovative supply chain cultures.

AI, tech expand career options for women in supply chain