We’re excited to celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month by honoring the rich diversity within our workforce! Here at GSC, diversity is not just a buzzword; it’s ingrained in our culture and evident at every level of our organization.
We’re proud to embrace the diverse array of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives each team member contributes. This diversity fuels our creativity and fosters innovation, enabling us to tackle challenges with unique insights and develop holistic solutions for our clients.
As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, let’s continue to embrace and amplify the voices of our AAPI colleagues, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our collective success. Together, we’re stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to drive positive change in our workplace and beyond.
Today we’re profiling our VP of Sales and Marketing, Leanne Andalis! Leanne is responsible for the nationwide sales and marketing efforts at GSC, leading a team of sales and marketing professionals.
Leanne is a staunch advocate for women’s advancement in the global supply chain. Additionally, she serves as a board member of the Pacific Transportation Association (PTA) and holds membership in various industry associations, including Women in Logistics, Northern California Propeller Club, California Trucking Association and the Harbor Trucking Association.
In celebrating AAPI, what are values of your heritage that have translated into your professional life?
Kapwa, the Filipino concept of shared identity and interconnectedness, has deeply influenced my professional life. In my work, whether collaborating with colleagues, assisting or engaging with clients, I prioritize empathy, respect and understanding. I strive to see others as interconnected parts of the same human experience, fostering an environment of inclusivity and cooperation. Kapwa reminds me to approach every interaction with a sense of shared humanity, which ultimately leads to stronger relationships, better teamwork and more meaningful outcomes.
How long have you been in the logistics industry?
20 years… and counting!
You’re a boomerang employee at GSC. What brought you back to GSC?
GSC’s culture and values deeply resonated with my own, offering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. The values of integrity, clarity and adding value at every turn are all concepts I prioritize in my personal and professional life. I also saw a tremendous opportunity for growth and innovation that aligned with my skillsets and experiences. I was keen to contribute to the continued success and evolution of GSC, all while knowing that my efforts would make a substantial impact.
What’s your favorite leadership quote or perspective?
“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek
This quote is truly about the servant leadership approach, where the focus is on serving and supporting others rather than asserting authority. I subscribe to the notion that true leadership is rooted in empathy, responsibility, and nurturing the growth and well-being of those you lead. The most impactful leaders, managers, mentors, and peers I’ve collaborated with fostered an environment of safety, authenticity, and vulnerability where failure does not mean the end but an opportunity for growth and learning. I aim to embody these values every day in my day-to-day leadership approach hoping to make a fraction of the impact others who have led this way have made on me and my career.
What perspective do you think women bring to leadership roles?
Empathy and emotional intelligence. Women are often socialized to be attuned to emotions and to prioritize empathy toward others. This often translates into leadership styles that are inclusive, collaborative, and supportive. Because women’s leadership styles often reflect these traits, they tend to be great at finding solutions requiring cross-team collaboration, soliciting a wider variety of opinions, which ultimately leads to a more comprehensive and creative solution.
What’s your favorite part of working at GSC?
Relationships, partnerships and collaboration. Not just internally but how the organization approaches external relationships as well. At GSC, I’m proud to say we take care of our own, take care of our partners, and give back to the local communities.
What’s one of your favorite hobbies?
Reading non-fiction. I recently finished Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain by Lisa Feldman Barrett. It offered a captivating journey into the complexities of the human brain and leaves you pondering the mysteries of the mind.
What’s your favorite food?
If you’ve spent any personal or professional time with me over a meal, I don’t have a favorite – I love everything!
What’s an accomplishment you’re proud of?
One of my most significant accomplishments has been balancing the responsibilities of being a single mom to two wonderful children while advancing my career. Throughout this journey, my children have been my steadfast motivators, providing unwavering support and love. Their encouragement has fueled my determination to succeed, overcome challenges and pursue excellence in both my professional and personal endeavors.
On the professional front, contributing to the creation of a sales and marketing department that embodies scalability, efficacy, and empowerment has been a defining accomplishment in my career journey. Implementing strategies, processes, and technologies that laid the foundation for our commercial department, while supporting GSC’s growth without sacrificing performance or efficiency was a massive undertaking and I couldn’t be more proud. While we developed these systems, we also built a team of passionate individuals dedicated to making a meaningful impact for our clients.
Enjoy some fun photos of Leanne on and off the job!
Our commercial and operations team visiting Philadelphia for a business meeting!
Leanne and her kids!
Golfing with clients!
