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MANAGEMENT | HR
view. I began my career at WLS in 2009 as the Controller and had responsibility for finance, IT, materials management, and human resources. When WLS joined ProMach, the president of WLS decided to retire, and I was asked if I would be interested in the job. I was both excited and nervous, but I knew that an opportunity like this would not be offered every day, and I was up for the challenge, so I said yes! I still have that excitement today and it truly has been my favorite job! Each day has been an opportunity to learn and to work with the team to improve and grow!
company that shares your goals of work-life balance and employee focus is very important. Then work hard, be honest, be a team player, and be genuine. Be confident that no matter what your gender, you have the skills to succeed. Educate yourself on your industry, and never stop learning. I have a sign in my office that inspires me every day. It’s a quote from Louis L’Amour that says, “There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning.” It reminds me every day…never stop setting goals.
OEM: What made you decide to pursue a career in manufacturing, a predominantly male industry? Propati: Before I had a degree, my first job was in manufacturing and the demographic was predominantly male, but I honestly never considered the industry demographics. Instead, I focused on the fun of seeing something made from start to finish. I liked working with the entire crossfunctional team in manufacturing. In every manufacturing position I held, it was common to work with large groups of people towards solving problems. I really enjoy that dynamic. The manufacturing environment appeals to me and provides me strong motivation to go to work. I looked past the demographics and focused on the job, the interactions and the teams!
OEM: Have you ever encountered someone in your career that had preconceived notions about what a leader in the packaging industry should be like? Propati: Yes. I was at my first trade show as the leader of WLS. I was talking with one of our vendors who didn’t realize that my role at WLS was General Manager. We had been discussing our companies’ business relationship, and it took him about five minutes before he realized my position in the company. He was visibly surprised, and his tone changed. It was clear he had not considered the possibility that a woman could be the leader of the company. He adapted and the conversation was great. He even wanted me to speak at his company event about women in leadership. We have maintained a great relationship. I was nervous going into that trade show because it was my first one in my new role, but I simply focused on the responsibilities I had as the GM of WLS, and it went well. I have been fortunate in that I have not really had to endure a lot of visible gender bias in a leadership role or in other roles. When interviewing for a job, I look for an immedi-
OEM: What advice would you give to other women who want to pursue leadership roles in manufacturing? Propati: To be totally clear, my advice would be the same for men and women… Find a profession and industry that you like and that you are passionate about. Finding a
PMMI’s Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) is sponsoring a cocktail reception at PACK EXPO East on Tuesday, March 22, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Room 204 C, 3:00-5:00 p.m.
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