Lara Thoenemann, Vice President of Supply Chain Management in Germany.

As we mark International Women’s Day, we are proud to spotlight Lara Thoenemann, Vice President of Supply Chain Management in Germany.

With more than 15 years of experience across retail and hospitality, Lara has built a career focused on driving transformation, strengthening supplier partnerships, and creating long-term value through procurement and supply chain strategy.

Before joining the Supply Chain team for Aramark / Avendra International Germany in July 2025, Lara spent 12 years with Compass Group Germany, developing procurement strategies and performance frameworks while leading initiatives that delivered measurable impact across complex supply networks.

We spoke with Lara about her journey into supply chain leadership, the trends shaping the industry, and the advice she would give to women looking to build a career in the field.

How long have you been with Avendra International?

“I joined Avendra International in July 2025, so I’ve been with the organisation for a little under a year.”

Can you tell us briefly about your journey in supply chain and how you got to where you are today?

“My journey in supply chain has been shaped by a deep interest in how complex networks work and how the right structures can create real, measurable value. Over the past 15 years, I’ve built my experience across procurement, category and supplier management, performance frameworks, and end-to-end supply chain optimisation.

What has driven my development is a consistent focus on transformation - understanding where processes need to evolve, building the right partnerships, and implementing solutions that are both sustainable and commercially valuable.

This mindset ultimately led me to my current role leading the Supply Chain function in Germany, where I focus on creating resilient, efficient and future-ready supply chain strategies that support both our clients and our business growth.”

What has been the most rewarding part of your career so far?

“The most rewarding part has been seeing the impact of long-term transformation - when a strategy you develop doesn’t just work on paper, but actually makes life easier for operations, strengthens supplier relationships, and creates measurable value over time.

I also find it incredibly motivating to help teams grow. Watching colleagues gain confidence, take ownership, and succeed in their roles is something I deeply value.”

What trends or innovations in supply chain are you most excited about?

“I’m especially excited about how data transparency and digitalisation are reshaping procurement. Tools that allow us to proactively predict risks, optimise categories more precisely, and collaborate more effectively with suppliers will fundamentally change how we work.”

What advice would you give to women aspiring to leadership roles in logistics, procurement, or supply chain management?

“My biggest advice is: own your expertise. Supply chain is an environment where deep knowledge truly matters, and you should feel confident in the value you bring.

Second, build strong relationships - across functions, across markets, and across teams. Collaboration is one of the most powerful leadership tools in this field.

And finally: don’t wait for the ‘perfect moment’ or the ‘perfect skill set’ before you step up. Growth happens when you stretch yourself, not when everything feels comfortable.”

What does International Women’s Day mean to you personally?

“For me, International Women’s Day is a moment to reflect on progress -  but also on what still needs to change. It’s a reminder that diverse leadership creates better outcomes, not just for women, but for organisations as a whole.

It’s also a day to celebrate the women who have supported, challenged, and inspired me throughout my career, and to pay that forward by creating opportunities and visibility for others.”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

“Outside of work, I enjoy switching off through activities that help me reset  - whether that’s being outdoors, travelling, or discovering new places with family and friends.

I also have a habit of turning everyday situations into small optimisation projects -whether it’s organising a pantry or planning a travel route. It seems my supply chain brain never fully switches off!”