Time for a coffee break? Take a few minutes to get to know Michael Byron, Senior Director of Supplier Inclusion at Walmart Inc., including his best career advice, advice for women entrepreneurs, and why sharing best practices is so important to business.
What do you see as the coolest or most important trend in your industry?
I don’t think it’s a trend, but it’s cool: Corporations are convening more to share best practices and support each other through greater engagement inside our respective organizations.
What piece of advice would you give to women entrepreneurs that want to do business with Walmart?
Be confident when pitching to a corporation and allow the product or service solution to be your calling card.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Be your authentic self!! It’s easy to lose yourself in a large corporation when you trying to climb the corporate ladder. It’s imperative you not compromise or bifurcate from what makes you unique.
How has being a WBENC Corporate Member helped your corporation and/or procurement department?
WBENC is helping to reshape the entrepreneurial landscape and provide a place for women-owned businesses to connect and leverage one another’s experiences and talents. WBENC’s efforts have allowed Walmart to meet awesome women-owned businesses, shared in their development, and has been recognized the company’s ongoing commitment.
What’s the best way to start your day?
I start my day with a prayer and reading something inspirational. I also try to acknowledge each person that crosses my path throughout day.
What do you like about your workplace?
I’m still learning, and engaging with, through a generational set of peers and colleagues.
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When I face a challenge, I… pray about it, listen for direction, and then proceed.
If I could go back in time, I would tell myself… time is precious and it’s not to be wasted.
The one thing I couldn’t live without is… my family.
Diversity and Inclusion inspires me because, … there is power in inclusion, empathy, and cultural intelligence. We’re more alike than we realize.
WALMART INC.
Walmart Inc. is engaged in the operation of retail, wholesale and other units in various formats around the world. The Company offers an assortment of merchandise and services at everyday low prices (EDLP). The Company operates through three segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International and Sam’s Club.
Learn more at walmart.com
