Meet Diana Snow
Logistics Coordinator, World Distribution Services, WDS Cleveland, OH
Meet Diana Snow, Logistics Coordinator for WDS. The Cleveland-native and world traveler recently shared the best things about her job (“No two days are the same,”), what attracted her to WDS and three things you might not have known about her.
When did you begin working at WDS and how did you grow professionally?
“I began at WDS in February of 2013 through a temp agency and then I was hired at WDS the same year. Before coming to WDS, I worked as a logistic coordinator for ShurTech (based in Avon), a huge company that makes duct tape. I was responsible for over 65 dock doors for their inbound and outbound shipments.”
What attracted you to the company?
“The diversity of the services WDS offers its customers.”
Best things about your job?
“I like that my job depends on me being reliable and self-sufficient. I also like that it’s fast-paced and customer-oriented.”
In your role as Logistics Coordinator, what does your typical workday look like? From where (in the US) do you work?
“I coordinate inbound and outbound shipments from the Cleveland office. I receive and process orders, invoice shipments for payment, interact with customers via email and phone, and enter data into two different warehouse management systems – Logimax and a brand new system for WDS called CargoWise.”
What projects are you most proud of?
“I’m currently working on 4PL projects with customers in Brazil, LA, Houston and Chicago. We are providing warehousing and shipping needs that are customized to the customers needs. It’s something new for me and I’m learning so much from it. I’m happy and proud for doing something like that.”
What do you love about your industry?
“I find that no two days are the same and I love that. There’s such a variety and the work is challenging, but it’s rewarding because I see so many projects from start to finish.”
What are some things people don’t know about your industry?
“A lot of people don’t know how critical communication is to our industry. For example, let’s say a shipment doesn’t make it to its destination. It could possibly shut down someone’s production line without that open line of communication between WDS and the customer. Flexibility is also very important in our industry, as it’s key to accommodate change.”
What are your career goals?
“I’d like to stay with WDS and earn a management position. I’d also to further my education and get my bachelors degree. A top goal for myself is also to improve our company’s profitability for the Cleveland office.”
What are three things your co-workers might not know about you?
“I was vice-president of the Chi Omega chapter of Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.”
“I worked the 2013 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony. I was bartending and my station was right next to the artist’s dressing rooms. The opportunity to meet Smokey Robinson and Bette Midler (to name a few) was exciting!”
“I was the first community college student to be given the Charles J. Bing Award. It’s usually given to 4-year college students, but I received it for my academics and community service at Tri-C. I received my degree (in Information Technology) after the age of 40 as I went back to school after my kids were grown.”
Do you have a mentor? Tell us about him or her.
“I worked for a history professor at Tri-C, her name is Mary Hovanec. She really motivated me and set a good example for me to follow. She had a positive attitude and such a dedication and enthusiasm for her job, it was contagious! She also helped me build my confidence and taught me to never set limits for myself.”
What advice would you give to someone interested in getting into your field?
“Be willing to give more than what’s expected. Manage your time effectively. In logistics, there’s such a quick turnover with every shipment that time management is extremely important. And always make sure the customers’ needs are met.”
Favorite Quote:
“Discipline is doing the same thing the right way whether anyone’s watching or not.” – Michael J. Fox