Lalitha Rajagopalan talks about her career journey; the experience of founding her own business; her passion for equality; & what she loves about procurement.

IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:

[07.40] Lalitha’s early years, and how she went from a degree in economics to the world of procurement and supply chain.

[10.20] Lalitha’s extensive education, and her ongoing commitment to curiosity.

[12.45] Lalitha’s time at Ariba and SAP; her journey of moving through various functions in product management and marketing; and the big lessons she learned along the way.

[17.37] The role of sponsorship and mentorship in Lalitha’s career progression; the culture at SAP and Ariba; and how, and why, Lalitha built her own personal ‘board of directors.’

[22.03] Why Lalitha chose to co-found her own company after a lengthy corporate career, and her experience of making the leap.

[24.08] An overview of ORO – who they are, what they do, and how they help their customers.

[26.22] Lalitha’s self-confessed ‘procurement geek’ status, and what she loves so much about the industry.

[29.34] Why Lalitha is so passionate about diversity and equality, and what the industry can do to keep making progress.

[32.20] Lalitha’s advice for women and other underrepresented voices that are looking to get into the industry, or take the next step.

[36.27] The future for Lalitha, for ORO, and for the industry.

RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:

You can connect with Lalitha over on LinkedIn.

If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear from more female founders, check out 364: Women In Supply Chain™, Lisa Morales-Hellebo, 331: Women In Supply Chain™, Sylena Urbanoski or 275: Women In Supply Chain™, Amani Radman.

405: Women In Supply Chain, Lalitha Rajagopalan

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