Priyanka Chauhan’s story is one of transforming a chance encounter with logistics into a powerful, people-centric leadership journey.
Leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about the impact you leave behind
Priyanka Chauhan, Logistics Operations Lead—North Region, Nestlé, emphasises the necessity of strategic agility in today’s unpredictable logistics landscape. “In supply chain and logistics, where precision is everything, I believe a leader needs to strike the right balance between strategy, agility, and strong people management to drive real impact,” she states. In a BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-Linear, Incomprehensible) world, she highlights the importance of data-backed decisions, effective stakeholder management, and embracing digital solutions to ensure operational excellence.
Cornerstones of success
Chauhan believes that success in logistics transcends mere strategic planning. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt in my career is that success in logistics isn’t just about strategy—it’s about agility and teamwork to ensure smooth execution,” she asserts. She underscores the significance of adapting to challenges, fostering collaboration, and maintaining a ground-level perspective to achieve tangible results. Real success, she emphasises, is derived from active engagement, respect for diverse insights, and a shared sense of ownership.
From chance to purpose
Chauhan’s entry into logistics was a serendipitous event that evolved into a profound passion. “I stumbled into the logistics industry by chance, but over time, it turned into my true passion,” she recounts. Despite facing the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, she built credibility through resilience and confidence. This journey has shaped her into a strategic leader, transforming an accidental career path into a purposeful mission to drive transformation and inspire other women.
Packaging optimisation
Problem-solving is integral to logistics, and Chauhan’s “FIT FOR PURPOSE” initiative exemplifies her innovative approach. “One of the most impactful projects I led was FIT FOR PURPOSE, a packaging optimisation initiative focused on improving pallet and vehicle utilisation while cutting costs, reducing damages, and driving a positive environmental impact,” she explains. By collaborating across multiple teams, she implemented right-sizing techniques and eco-friendly materials, optimizing carton structures and enhancing palletization. This initiative not only improved efficiency but also advanced sustainability.
Fostering lasting impact
Chauhan firmly believes that leadership is defined by impact, not just authority. “Leadership isn’t just about authority—it’s about the impact you leave behind,” she states. By prioritising stakeholder engagement and relationship management, she broke down silos and fostered a culture of trust and accountability. This people-first approach not only expedited project execution but also created sustainable change through improved visibility, cross-functional coordination, and workforce engagement. Her experience underscores the principle that investing in people yields long-term success.
