As artificial intelligence reshapes supply chain operations across industries, Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) is highlighting how emerging technologies are creating new career pathways and expanding opportunities for women in supply chain roles.
In a Jan. 14 interview, Berenice Vettore, Global Chief Quality Officer at ELC, explained that AI and tech innovations are opening doors for greater inclusion and diversity in a historically male‑dominated field — a development that aligns with broader shifts within the company and the industry.
AI’s Role in Transforming Supply Chain Careers
According to Vettore, AI and other advanced technologies are introducing new processes and operating models that demand diverse skill sets and deeper technical understanding — conditions that present a “huge opportunity” for women pursuing careers in supply chain.
AI is increasingly integral to modern supply chains for tasks such as:
- Inventory forecasting and demand planning, improving accuracy and reducing waste;
- Predictive analytics and operational optimization; and
- Integrated planning tools that connect data and decision‑making across functions.
These technologies require a blend of analytical, technical, and business skills — strengths that can diversify the talent profile within supply chain organizations and elevate new leaders of all backgrounds into critical roles.
Women’s Leadership and Inclusion at Estée Lauder
ELC’s workforce data reflects how the company emphasizes gender diversity in its operations: around 50% of its global supply chain workforce are women, with 60% of women holding VP‑level or higher positions across quality and operations teams, according to company statistics shared in the interview.
Vettore sponsors ELC’s Women in Supply Chain employee resource group, which began informally over a decade ago and now spans offices and facilities globally — fostering mentorship, career development, and professional support for women at all levels.
Beyond internal initiatives, Estée Lauder has a history of partnering with organizations like the boom! Global Network to host events that empower women supply chain professionals and build industry‑wide dialogue on diversity and inclusion.
Why This Matters for the Industry
The blending of AI and supply chain roles is changing the types of skills that organizations value most — with data fluency, cross‑functional collaboration, and digital literacy rising to the forefront. For women and other underrepresented talent, this shift helps break down traditional barriers to entry and leadership by democratizing access to critical functional capabilities.
Moreover, ELC’s emphasis on diversity reflects broader industry recognition that inclusive teams can drive better problem‑solving and innovation — a key advantage when integrating complex technologies like AI into supply chain operations.
Looking Ahead
As Estée Lauder and other global brands continue scaling AI and advanced technologies across their supply chains, observers expect the field to become increasingly accessible to diverse talent.
Initiatives like ELC’s Women in Supply Chain group and strategic partnerships signal a progression toward a more inclusive future where technology and human expertise work together to advance careers and business performance.
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