Rosalind “Roz” G. Brewer was born in 1962 in the United States. From an early age, she displayed remarkable ambition and determination, traits that would shape her future career path.
Education:
Brewer’s pursuit of knowledge began with her formal education, where she laid the groundwork for her future success. She attended prestigious educational institutions, driven by a thirst for learning and personal growth.
Degrees Acquired:
Rosalind “Roz” G. Brewer attended Franklin & Marshall College, where she pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree from 1982 to 1986. Additionally, she earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from Arizona State University between 1998 and 2000.
Career:
Throughout her illustrious career, Rosalind Brewer has held executive positions at renowned companies, leaving an indelible mark on each organization she has been a part of. She began her professional journey at Kimberly-Clark in 1984, immediately after graduating from Spelman College. Rising through the ranks, she held various leadership roles over the course of her 22-year tenure, ultimately serving as the global president for manufacturing and operations.
In 2006, Brewer embarked on a new chapter at Walmart, where she quickly ascended the corporate ladder, showcasing her exceptional leadership abilities. Her roles encompassed vice president, senior vice president, and executive vice president for southeastern operations, among others. Notably, she spearheaded Walmart’s operations in the eastern business unit, leaving an enduring impact on the company’s success.
Brewer’s tenure at Walmart culminated in her appointment as the president and CEO of Sam’s Club in 2012. During her tenure, she revitalized the brand’s focus on health and wellness, pioneering initiatives to expand organic product offerings. As the first Black individual to lead a Walmart division, Brewer solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the corporate world.
Transitioning to Starbucks in 2017, Brewer’s strategic vision and operational expertise were instrumental in her role as COO and group president. She played a pivotal role in steering the company’s operations across the United States, Canada, and Latin America, cementing her status as a transformative leader.
In 2021, Brewer assumed the helm as CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, marking a historic milestone as the only current Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. Despite facing challenges, Brewer’s leadership was characterized by resilience and determination. However, she mutually agreed to step down from her role in September 2023 after a two-year tenure.
In addition to her corporate achievements, Brewer has served on the boards of prominent organizations such as Amazon, Lockheed Martin, and Molson Coors Brewing Company, further underscoring her influence and stature in the business community. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and visionary leadership continue to inspire generations of aspiring professionals.
Honors and Awards
2013: Working Mother’s Most Powerful Working Moms
In 2013, Rosalind Brewer was recognized by Working Mother as one of the Most Powerful Working Moms, acknowledging her remarkable achievements both in her professional career and as a mother.
2015: Fortune’s Most Powerful Woman
On September 15, 2015, Rosalind Brewer was featured in Fortune’s prestigious Most Powerful Woman rankings, a testament to her influential leadership and contributions to the business world.
2017: Spelman College Legacy of Leadership Award
In 2017, Brewer was honored with the Spelman College Legacy of Leadership award, highlighting her significant impact on leadership and her enduring legacy in empowering women.
2020: Fortune and Forbes Rankings
Fortune ranked Rosalind Brewer as the 27th Most Powerful Woman in the World in 2020, recognizing her exceptional leadership prowess and influence on a global scale. Additionally, Forbes listed her as the 48th among the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, further solidifying her standing as a prominent figure in the corporate world.
2021: Forbes 50 Over 50 and Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame
In 2021, Brewer was selected for the inaugural Forbes 50 Over 50 list, which celebrates entrepreneurs, leaders, scientists, and creators over the age of 50 for their outstanding achievements and contributions. Simultaneously, she was inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame, honoring her remarkable career and impact on society.
2022: USA Today’s Women of the Year
In 2022, Rosalind Brewer was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year, recognizing her continued dedication to excellence and her significant influence in shaping the corporate landscape and inspiring future generations of leaders.
Conclusion:
Rosalind “Roz” G. Brewer’s remarkable journey from her early years to her current position as a member of the President’s Export Council is a testament to her unwavering dedication, resilience, and leadership. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring business leaders, highlighting the importance of perseverance, education, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in achieving one’s goals.