We are happy to welcome Laura Peacock, President of Phoenix International Freight Services, to the AWESOME community! With a distinguished career spanning decades in the supply chain industry, Laura has been a trailblazer in promoting gender equity and fostering diverse leadership. In a recent interview, Laura reflected on her journey, the hurdles she’s overcome, and her dedication to empowering women in supply chain leadership.
As President, Laura oversees Phoenix International’s operations across the United States, ensuring seamless and efficient logistics solutions for a diverse portfolio of clients. Her unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and sustainability has positioned Phoenix International as a trusted partner in the global trade and transportation industry.
Laura’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and innovation. She fosters an inclusive environment where teams are inspired to excel, and she embraces cutting-edge technologies to optimize supply chain management. Under her guidance, Phoenix International has expanded its global footprint, enhanced its technological capabilities, and implemented forward-thinking initiatives that prioritize environmental responsibility.
A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, Laura is dedicated to mentoring female leaders in logistics and supply chain… Through mentorship programs and active involvement in professional organizations, she has created pathways for women to advance their careers and make meaningful contributions to the industry.
Laura is an active member of several industry organizations, a sought-after speaker at logistics and supply chain conferences, and a vocal proponent of creating equitable workplaces.
Beyond her professional achievements, Laura finds fulfillment in traveling and supporting charitable initiatives related to her local community, logistics, and education.
AWESOME
Laura, we’re so happy to welcome you to the AWESOME community! What excites you about this network?
Laura Peacock
What excites me most about the AWESOME network is its commitment to fostering meaningful connections among women leaders in supply chain. I’m particularly inspired by the opportunity to share best practices, collaborate on innovative solutions, and amplify the visibility of women excelling in this dynamic industry.
AWESOME
Can you share a significant achievement or challenge you’ve encountered in your career journey? How did you overcome it, and what did you learn from the experience?
Peacock
Early in my career, I faced significant challenges related to gender discrimination. The ‘boys’ club’ culture was pervasive, and I often felt excluded from critical conversations and opportunities simply because of my gender. Equal pay was more of a theoretical concept than a reality, and the bias was blatant and ever-present in my day-to-day experiences.
Rather than letting this environment discourage me, I used it as motivation to prove my value through results and to advocate for myself and others. I sought out mentors and allies who believed in fairness and invested in my own professional development to ensure that I was always prepared to succeed, regardless of the barriers placed in my way.
This experience not only made me more resilient but also strengthened my resolve to advocate for equity and inclusivity in every role I’ve held since. It taught me the importance of calling out systemic issues while working proactively to build environments where diverse voices are heard and valued. These lessons continue to shape how I lead and mentor others, and they drive my passion for ensuring that no one else feels excluded or undervalued.
AWESOME
In your opinion, what are some of the key opportunities and challenges facing women leaders in supply chain today?
Peacock
A key opportunity lies in the growing recognition of diverse leadership styles, which can lead to innovation and improved performance. However, challenges remain, such as breaking through traditional stereotypes and achieving equal representation in senior roles.
AWESOME
How do you balance the demands of leadership with personal and professional growth, and what strategies have you found effective in managing work-life balance?
Peacock
Balancing leadership demands with personal growth requires intentional prioritization. I’ve found success in setting clear boundaries, delegating effectively, and carving out time for continuous learning. For work-life balance, I focus on quality over quantity—ensuring that when I’m with my family or pursuing personal interests, I’m fully present.
AWESOME
What advice would you offer to other women aspiring to leadership roles within the supply chain industry?
Peacock
My advice is to be confident in your abilities, seek out mentors, and never shy away from challenging opportunities. Understanding the unique value you bring to the table and consistently advocating for yourself are crucial. Also, building a strong network, like AWESOME, can open doors to opportunities and support.”