International Women’s Day is more than just a date to me – it serves as a tribute to all the pioneering women who have forged their paths and opened doors for others. Throughout my 35-year career at UPS, a typically male-dominated industry, I’ve seen women achieve remarkable milestones and secure positions at the top of our organization. As UPS Canada’s first female President, I can attest to this from personal experience. Much like these businesswomen, female entrepreneurs with their determination, tenacity, resilience, and innovative spirit have emerged as a driving force in the Canadian economy.
I’m proud to say that at UPS, we put people first. We love celebrating our diverse team and finding unique ways to lift each other. We believe that by providing equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of gender, age, race, or background we can create a more inclusive and successful workplace. Our Women’s Leadership Development group is just one of the many ways we are creating a more dynamic workplace. Through this group, we are empowering women, and promoting their advancement within the company.
We share that same commitment when supporting women- and diverse-owned businesses. Many talented entrepreneurs don’t have access to the knowledge, capital, and networks they need to succeed. For us, it’s not enough to say we support you. We saw a need to help bridge the gender gap in export participation to help women-owned businesses grow. So, we’ve partnered with Startup Canada to launch the Women Exporters Program. This program provides education and resources to help women entrepreneurs expand into new markets. Whether you’re starting or growing your business, we’re here to help make your business unstoppable.
Here’s my advice, be relentless and go after what you want, and listen when someone tells you, you are ready for the next step. Because when women thrive, we all benefit. #InsprieInclusion
Stephanie Dexter
President, UPS Canada
Stephanie began her career in 1989 as a package handler in the Southeast California District. She held various positions in IE, HR and operation assignments of increasing responsibility, leading to her promotion to Laguna Package Division Manager in 2007. After completing several rotations in hub, air, and package operations in the South California and Central California districts, she was promoted to package operations manager for the South California District in 2015.
In 2016, Stephanie accepted the position of U.K., Ireland, and Nordics District Package Operations Manager. She returned to the U.S. in 2018 and after a short time in the Northeast District was promoted to president, Northern Plains District in May 2018. She accepted her current position in April 2021, marking her as the first female president for UPS in Canada.
Stephanie holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in economics from San Diego State University and a MBA with a concentration in finance from Louisiana State University, Shreveport. She has completed Executive Development at Emory University as well as International Executive Development at Insead in Fontainebleau, France.
