Throughout Women’s History Month, we are spotlighting women employees who have helped strengthen our culture, push our business forward and help Molson Coors thrive. Today, we speak with Danna Mendoza, senior chain sales executive based in New Jersey, about the importance of Women’s History Month and the female leaders who have inspired her. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New Jersey, Danna has been with Molson Coors for just over a year now but is already making an impact.
Why is Women’s History Month/Internal Women’s Day special to you? How do you celebrate/recognize the month?
Women’s History month is special to me because it highlights women's achievements throughout history and expands women’s sense of what is possible. I recognize the month by reading books by female authors, since 80% of popular novels are written by men. This month I will be reading “Women Don't Ask: Negotiation and the Gender Divide” by Linda Babcock.
Celebrating diverse voices shouldn’t be limited to one month. How can people be strong allies throughout the entire year?
If you feel you are in a position of privilege, you can be an ally year-round. Just show up for women in a meaningful way and help create a space for other voices to be heard. Join as many groups as possible and attend events that are women-led to gain a perspective that may differ from your own.
Who is a female leader or role model you look up to and why?
I really look up to Sheryl Sandberg after reading her book “Lean In.” When I was starting my professional career, it really helped me become more empowered and learn how to set boundaries and be more assertive in my work and home.
What would you say to women who are interested in pursuing a career at Molson Coors or in the beverage industry?
Just do it! The beverage industry may feel like a boys club at times, but it needs diversity and different perspectives. There will always be different challenges, but face each with confidence that if you don’t know the answer right then, it is OK. You will not have all the answers all the time, but you open yourself up to growth and trust when you can answer with, “I’m not sure, but I’ll find out.”
Has seeing female senior leaders at Molson Coors like CFO Tracey Joubert, CMO Michelle St. Jacques and Chief Legal and Government Affairs Officer Anne-Marie D’Angelo influenced your career development at Molson Coors? If so, how?
I really look up to all of our female leaders, but one in particular that stands out for me is Sofia Colucci, vice president of marketing for the Miller family of brands. She has really motivated me since starting at Molson Coors. It is always refreshing to feel represented in a company and, when I first heard Sofia speak at our annual distributor convention, it really opened my eyes to the possibilities of my own future. Like me, Sofia is an immigrant from Latin America. That she has achieved so much is something I aspire to and would love to replicate.