How Identity Influenced an Account Executive at National Beverage Company's Career
Kathleen's career journey has been shaped by a commitment to improving workplace equality, noting that while "we've come some ways, [we] still have a long way to go." This commitment has led to active participation in women's organizations and a strong advocacy for driving change, including encouraging others to "be part of the change" by joining or creating business resource groups for women.
Gender Equality, Women in Business, Mentorship, Networking, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Kathleen Walsh
Account Executive
National beverage company
Suffolk University, 2013
UCLA Anderson, MBA
Communications
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG), Food, Beverages & Alcohol
Sales and Client Management
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Kathleen has had supportive bosses and colleagues throughout her career.
2. She actively participates in women's organizations to drive change and improve opportunities for women in the workplace.
3. She advises young women to seek out or create business resource groups to advocate for gender equality and drive change within their organizations.
Transcript
As someone who identifies as a woman, how has that impacted how you've navigated your career?
I've been fortunate to have supportive bosses and employees. I think women in the workplace are continually trying to find ways to make things better and help them improve.
I've been part of women's organizations within our company to build my network and drive change. I still believe there are salary disparities and opportunities to reach parity for women on teams and within specific departments.
We have a long way to go, and I'm sure women in corporate America would agree. We've made some progress, but still have a long way to go.
My advice to young women is to be part of the change, as frustrating as it can be sometimes. Whatever organization you join, seek out whether they have a business resource group for women.
If they don't, push to have one created, lead it, and do it yourself. We shouldn't have to do everything ourselves, but it's better to drive that change than to sit back and not advocate for your fellow women in your organization. That would be my advice.