In competitive, traditionally male fields like hardware, lumber, and building materials, being recognized as an outstanding female business leader making an impact at work and in the community is a distinct honor. At the third annual HBSDealer Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply event on November 8-9 in Chicago, 18 Epicor customers were among those nominated by peers and selected by a panel of judges “based on their contributions and attributes that go above and beyond the call of duty,” according to HBSDealer.
Part of an overall effort to allow not only recognition but also industry education and resources, the program featured keynote speakers and leadership panels on important topics. Brenda Nobleza, Regional Vice President of Channel Sales, represented Epicor on a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) panel exploring the potential for greater inclusion in the industry moving forward.
With 22 years of experience in direct and channel sales in the enterprise software market, Nobleza believes that a strong long-term partnership with a trusted business partner is as important to overall success as product functionality and a smooth implementation. Her experiences working with “high potential” women beginning their careers at Epicor have underscored the value of both mentoring and finding a mentor.
“There’s nothing wrong with working your way up,” she says. “You develop relationships, skills, and credibility.” In addition, Nobleza emphasizes the importance of “using your voice” to explore new ideas, focus on big goals, and better serve customers—especially as technology continues to play a greater role in the industry.
Being able to access the insights and inspiration of a strong mentor is critical to growing and advancing in a challenging field, Nobleza believes. “Having someone like Epicor President Lisa Pope as a mentor has been so important,” she adds. “She’s a phenomenal leader, and very passionate about mentoring people.”
Learn more about how Epicor partnerships, innovations, and solutions can help your business thrive.
Business Excellence Award Winners/Epicor Customers
Retail
- Elizabeth Civiletti, General Manager, Mazzone Ace Hardware
- Renee Kraft, Operations Manager, Knudson Lumber
- Anna Motschall, CFO, Mans Lumber & Millwork
- Jenna Myers, Merchandise Manager, Do it Best Corp.*
- Elena Nelson, Partner/Co-Owner, Nicollet Ace Hardware
- Rebecca Partee, VP Sales Administration, Orgill, Inc.*
- Joan Saunders, Store Manager, Hagan Ace Hardware
Lumber and Building Materials
- Alison Bahry, Buyer, Hardware Dept, LMC
- Marilyn Haney, Owner, Haney Lumber & Supply Inc.
- Brenda MacKay, Co-Owner, Vassar Building Supply
- Desiree Oakley, Owner, Willard Oakley Lumber
Rising Star Award Winners/Epicor Customers
Retail
- Rose Aurora, Sales Manager, East Haven Builders Supply
- Cherie Jacobs, Store Development Manager, Do it Best Corp.*
- Leigh Levinson, Buyer/Merchant, ACE Hardware Corporation*
Lumber and Building Materials
- Hilary Ervin, Sales, Teague Lumber Company
- Sadie Hammond, Director of Organizational Development, Hammond Lumber Company
- Tina McEachin, Division Vice President of Sales, Jennings Building Supply
- Brittany Napier, Manager, Specialty Windows & Doors, Maner Builders Supply
*corporate partner
