Ten Leaders to Know: Mindi Vanden Bosch (Full Profile)

Title
Vice President, Operations

Company
Vermeer Corporation

Birth City
Omaha

Current City
Pella

How did you get where you are today?
I great up playing sports and understanding the importance of a team and how working together will drive success. I also had so many great mentors throughout my career that helped me navigate decisions and understand where I get energized.

I have worked in many different areas in business but my passion pulled me back to Operations. I started out in Continuous Improvement and the desire to drive waste out of a process has been something that has also been a focus for me over my career.

What excites you the most about the business you work in?
Vermeer is a company that spans many different markets and countries around the world. It is awesome to be part of such a great organization that has products that make a difference in the world.

Vermeer was built on a foundation of innovation, taking care of the customer and respect for our employees. That culture is still strong today and it is great to work for an organization that has that foundation.

We have been on the lean journey for 25 years and that drive for continuous improvement is also part of our culture.

I have a lot of pride watching Vermeer machines get built and roll off the assembly line.

What do you see as the next big trend in your industry?
Being in operations, I think we will all need to start understand how the challenges with labor and supply chain will continue to be a challenge in the future. We have some automation in our plants but I think we need to continue to focus on how technology can continue to support our team throughout the manufacturing process.

Where do you look for inspiration or to generate new ideas?
I learn a lot from conversations with other leaders. I still have mentors who help support me and help challenge my thoughts and views to expand my thinking.

I also find value in serving on boards to get perspective from other organizations.

What does effective leadership mean to you?
Over my career, I have had both effective and less effective managers. I have observed a lot of traits that make those managers the way they are. There are times that you may need to alter your leadership style based on your team, especially if they are new to the business/role or have many years of experience.

My thoughts around leadership personally is that I have employees who are experts in their areas. My role is to help support, remove barriers and drive them to think bigger. I don't want to micromanage their decisions. I want to empower them

What is your favorite thing about Iowa?
I great up in Iowa and have always loved the people and culture of Iowa. I also love that I can look out my window at work and watch a corn field from planting to harvest. I enjoy having 4 seasons and the fun and excitement that comes with all the changing seasons.

What piece of advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my self to be patient in my career journey. Everyone wants to move roles and move up quickly. Every role I have had over my career has help build the foundation of knowledge. Enjoy the journey

Why are you a member of ABI?
I really appreciate the Iowa Business community. I enjoy getting to know the other companies in Iowa that help drive and support the Iowa economy

Who do you look to for mentorship?
I have looked to many different people to be mentors to me. Look for those who know something different than you