Photo credit: wikipedia
When we talk about women redefining leadership in manufacturing, Revathi Advaithi stands out as a symbol of what’s possible when determination meets opportunity. Born and raised in India, she began her career as a factory floor supervisor, balancing both the technical demands of production and the challenges of working in a male-dominated environment.
Today, she serves as the CEO of Flex Ltd., one of the world’s largest manufacturing companies — employing over 170,000 people across 30 countries. Her journey from the shop floor to the C-suite proves that leadership in manufacturing is not defined by where you start, but by how you grow.
💡 Her Journey
Revathi’s path was not linear — it was built through experience, continuous learning, and resilience. After earning her degree in Mechanical Engineering, she joined Eaton, where she spent over two decades building her expertise in manufacturing operations, quality systems, and leadership.
When she became the CEO of Flex in 2019, she inherited a company that was transforming to meet the future of global production — automation, sustainability, and supply chain resilience. Under her leadership, Flex has embraced advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, and inclusion initiatives that prioritize both innovation and people.
💬 Lessons for Women in Manufacturing and Production
1️⃣ Start Where You Are — Excellence is Universal
Revathi began on the factory floor, just like many women in production today. She learned every process and system by doing the work herself. Her story reminds women that every role matters — whether assembling parts or managing teams — because technical excellence becomes the foundation for leadership.
“If you want to lead, start by mastering your craft.”
2️⃣ Use Your Voice — Leadership Requires Visibility
Revathi often speaks about how women must make themselves visible in environments where their presence is underrepresented. She encourages women in manufacturing to advocate for themselves, take on high-impact projects, and confidently pursue leadership roles.
“You can’t be what you can’t see — so be the example for the next generation.”
3️⃣ Lead with Purpose — Redefine What Manufacturing Means
As CEO, she has emphasized purpose-driven leadership — ensuring Flex’s operations align with sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility. Women in production can take inspiration from this mindset: leadership isn’t just about output; it’s about impact.
“True leadership balances performance with responsibility.”
🚀 The Takeaway
Revathi Advaithi’s story is a call to action for women in manufacturing and production everywhere:
- Take pride in your technical skills.
- Speak up and take initiative.
- Lead with both purpose and precision.
From the shop floor to the boardroom, every step builds the foundation for lasting impact.
✨ For Women in Manufacturing and Production (WIMP Network):
Revathi Advaithi’s journey is proof that your story is still being written. Don’t wait to be invited — step up, innovate, and lead.
WOMEN IN MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCTION 
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