LEADERSHIP IN MANUFACTURING NEWSLETTER #59
How Strategic Listening Transforms Everyday Leadership
Hello and welcome to the Leadership in Manufacturing Newsletter—trusted by 2,400+ professionals across the electronics manufacturing industry.
Each week, the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast delivers practical advice and leadership lessons to help you grow, lead with clarity, and navigate today’s fast-moving industry with confidence.
In this episode, host Sannah Vinding chats with Joshua Nix, Director of Supply Management at Mouser Electronics, about what it really takes to grow as a leader—and how that growth changes the way you lead.
Because leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about creating space for others to thrive alongside you.
In this edition, we dive into how shifting from task-focused execution to strategic thinking, daily learning, and empowered communication can elevate not just your own leadership, but your entire team’s performance.
Ready to level up? Start with 3 key insights, 2 powerful quotes, 1 practical tip, and 1 challenge to stretch your thinking.
Three Insights on Leading with Impact
I. Evolve from Task-Oriented to Strategic Thinking
Effective leadership isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about seeing the bigger picture. Strategic leaders shift from execution to alignment, asking deeper questions and focusing on long-term impact, not just immediate outcomes.
II. Empowerment Starts With Listening
True empowerment comes from inviting others to contribute their perspective. When leaders ask thoughtful, open-ended questions and genuinely listen, it builds ownership, trust, and better decision-making across the team.
III. Make Learning a Daily Discipline
Staying sharp means staying curious. Leaders who carve out time each day to explore new ideas, technologies, or even regulations are better prepared to anticipate changes and lead with clarity in a fast-moving landscape.
Quotes From Our Guest
“If I’m always the one driving the idea, we’re going to miss out on a lot. Empowering others unlocks better ideas and stronger execution.”
– Joshua Nix, Supplier Management Director, Mouser Electronics
“Listen more than you speak. That’s the advice I’d give my younger self. It’s where real growth—and leadership—begins.”
– Joshua Nix, Supplier Management Director, Mouser Electronics
Actionable Tip For You
Start Your Day With 15 Minutes of Industry Insight
Before tackling your inbox, read 2–3 articles outside your usual scope. Summarize one and share it with your team—add a few bullet points on why it matters and ask for their take. This creates a culture of shared learning and sharper thinking.
Challenge For You
Fuel Ownership by Matching Passion to Projects
Instead of assigning a task this week, offer a team member the chance to lead something that aligns with their interests. Invite their ideas, give them room to shape the plan, and support them in delivering. Trust meets motivation—and results follow.
Leadership is a journey—not a destination
Thanks for tuning in and growing with us. Stay curious, stay bold, and keep shaping the future of your industry.
Sannah Vinding
Sannah Vinding
Producer & Host, Leadership In Manufacturing Podcast
Sannah Vinding is a distinguished Engineer, B2B Marketing Strategist, and Executive Leader with over two decades of experience in the electronics manufacturing industry.
She is renowned for her technical engineering expertise, innovative product development skills, and strategic marketing acumen.
She is the founder and host of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, where she shares insights on innovation, leadership, and the impact of AI in the manufacturing sector.
With a Master’s degree in Design/Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Denmark, Sannah has established herself as a thought leader in her field, dedicated to fostering innovation and driving success through customer-centric marketing strategies.
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