We’re happy to welcome Aura Park, Global Head of Procurement for Supply Chain at Sanofi, to the AWESOME community! In a recent conversation, Aura shared her inspiring career journey and reflections on leadership. From navigating global roles in a male-dominated industry to balancing motherhood with professional ambition, she offers candid insights and powerful advice for women rising in supply chain.
Aura Park is the Global Head of Supply Chain Procurement at Sanofi with over 20 years of experience in the field of Logistics and Distribution in North America, Europe and Asia. Currently, she lives in The Hague, the Netherlands, together with her family. She is a versatile and forward-thinking professional with a proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, driving strategic initiatives, and delivering sustainable results. Recognized for a collaborative leadership style, sharp problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, global environments. Aura is passionate about leadership development, inclusion and creating meaningful connection. She believes true success is built on trust, shared purpose and the power of diverse perspective. And is driven by opportunities to make a difference and leaving things better than she found them.
AWESOME
Hi Aura, I’m so happy to welcome you to the AWESOME community. What excites you most about being part of this network?
Aura Park
I’m genuinely excited to learn more about what this community stands for. When I attended the Women in Supply Chain and Logistics luncheon at the Gartner Symposium in Barcelona, it gave me a powerful glimpse into the kind of support, inspiration, and impact that networks like AWESOME can provide. I’m still early in my journey with the organization, but I’m eager to understand how I can contribute meaningfully and help drive positive change. I have no doubt that the more I engage, the more inspired I’ll become by the incredible work this network is doing.
AWESOME
That’s great to hear. To give you some background, AWESOME is a network of women leaders at the top levels of supply chain. When Ann Drake started this organization 13 years ago, she—like many women—was often the only woman in the room at that level. Since then, we’ve grown into a community led by Michelle Dilley, with robust programming including virtual and in-person events to connect and empower women leaders. We’d love to hear more about you and your background.
Park
I work for Sanofi as Global Head of Procurement for Supply Chain. I lead a diverse, international team of 14 professionals located in US, Hungary, France, China, Turkey, India and Colombia. Together, we manage a strategically critical category valued at approximately €600 million and our scope includes air, ocean, and road transportation; distribution centers and in market distribution; customs services; and specialized logistics solutions. All to ensure we deliver life saving medicine to our patients in excellence.
I’ve spent my entire career in the logistics industry. I’m Korean American-Dutch and after graduating from University of Virginia, I joined a global management training program that launched my career overseas—starting in Germany. Since then, I’ve worked and lived across China, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands, gaining invaluable experience along the way.
What drew me to this industry—and what keeps me here still after 20 years—is the constant challenge and global exposure. It’s a function that connects every part of the business and every corner of the world. It has given me not only a fulfilling career, but also the chance to live and lead across cultures, develop resilience, and continuously grow as both a professional and a person.
AWESOME
With all that experience, what are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Park
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been navigating work-life balance—especially when I became a mother for the first time. I returned to work full time just three months after giving birth. In hindsight, I wasn’t fully ready—and neither was the company. They quickly pulled together a private space for me, which eventually became a makeshift pumping room for other women. It was a small step, but it revealed how unprepared some logistics environments still are when it comes to supporting women, particularly working mothers.
I didn’t take extended time off—I chose to return quickly, stay in my role, and keep pushing forward. But looking back, I would have approached it differently. And I’ve come to realize: that’s okay. There’s a myth that if you step away, even briefly, you’ll lose momentum or opportunities for advancement. But I’ve seen firsthand that’s not true. If you’ve earned your place, you can pause—and still return strong.
That’s something I now share openly with women considering motherhood. Your health and well-being matter. You don’t have to rush, or prove anything. The opportunities will still be there. I wish someone had told me that ten years ago.
AWESOME
I think mindset plays a big role in that too, seeing leaders like you making those choices helps others realize what’s possible.
Park
Absolutely—representation is incredibly important. Growing up in the U.S., I didn’t often see Asian women in leadership roles, and that absence had an impact. When women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, see others in senior positions—even from afar—it can shift what’s seen as possible. It reinforces the belief: “If she can do it, so can I.”
And representation isn’t just about visibility; it’s also about redefining what leadership looks like. You don’t need to adopt a top-down or aggressive style to be effective. In fact, many organizations increasingly recognize the value of diverse leadership styles. Women often bring strengths like collaboration, emotional intelligence, and adaptability—qualities that are essential in today’s complex, fast-moving environments.