Written By: Maggie Brown (maggiethe_journalist)
visit: supplychainmaven.com
In the ever evolving world of supply chain management, Keiwana Eaton stands out as a beacon of excellence and resilience. A seasoned professional with 20 years of experience in the corporate sector, Eaton is not only a successful business owner, but also a proud United States Navy veteran, Inventory Management Thought Leader, plus Global Travel Enthusiast.
Eaton was raised in the outskirts of Montgomery, Alabama, in Opelika Alabama, her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent figure within her industry is nothing short of inspiring.
Coming from an unconventional upbringing, she encountered numerous challenges along the way. However, instead of letting obstacles deter her, Eaton used them as stepping stones to propel herself forward. Each hurdle she faced only served to make her stronger and more resilient.
Eaton said her career trajectory started when she was about 18-years-old watching a television show about two twin sisters who sold .99 cent nuts and bolts to the government and making roughly $200,000 a year on that contract alone. Their work peaked her interest so much so, that she began looking into a similar role to pursue in her personal and professional life.
As a purchasing director, she plays a pivotal role in facilitating seamless operations for both corporate giants and privately owned boutique hotels. Her role plus expertise allows her to actively engage with some small businesses, offering them a chance to expand into the hospitality industry via contracts and inventory purchasing.
What sets Eaton apart is not just her professional accomplishments, but also her resilience in the face of adversity.
Eaton has a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Operations Management from Excelsior University, and a Master’s of Science in Management, Acquisition and Supply Chain Management from University of Maryland Global campus – so she’s a very educated and knowledgeable woman.
According to the data on zippa.com,
- There are over 50,280 supply chain managers currently employed in the United States.
- 25.2% of all supply chain managers are women, while 74.8% are men.
- The average supply chain manager age is 46 years old.
- The most common ethnicity of supply chain managers is White (65.4%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (12.7%), Asian (8.9%) and Black or African American (7.6%).
- Supply chain managers are most in-demand in Atlanta, GA.
- San Francisco, CA pays an annual average wage of $111,629, the highest in the US.
- In 2022, women supply chain managers earned 93% of what men earned.
- Vermont is the best state for supply chain managers to live.
- Supply chain managers are 63% more likely to work at public companies in comparison to private companies.
Eaton’s success serves as an inspiration to aspiring professionals, particularly women and minorities, in the supply chain sector. As the owner of a supply chain company herself, Eaton educates other small businesses on the importance of having their professional ducks in a row, teaches them how to land their desired contracts, branding, manufacturing, product management, inventory and much more.
She advises business owners to ensure they have their company legally registered with the state, have the necessary inventory plus more available for each client, an accurate payment method established, and w9 (w8 if overseas) readily available when submitting a proposal to companies.
Eaton believes that business owners should expand their reach beyond small items such as lip gloss or hair extensions , and think on a larger scale of big ticket items like towels, linen, shampoo, lotion, soap, and pretty much anything you will need within a hotel or spa.
Her journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.Through her work, she not only shatters glass ceilings, but also paves the way for future generations of trailblazers.
Book 1:1 session: supplchainmaven.com
As Eaton continues to make strides in her career, her impact resonates far beyond the confines of the supply chain sector. She is not just a professional; she is a symbol of empowerment and possibility.
With her unwavering determination and indomitable spirit, Eaton is carving out a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
