As SVP of Pallet Alliance's business development, Mary Casillo's expertise in supply-based procurement has been pivotal in fostering client relationships and propelling operational excellence. Her dedication to sustainable practices and innovative business development ideas has led to the successful capture of new business opportunities and partnerships, enhanced client satisfaction and secured long-term partnerships. Casillo is a powerhouse in the pallet industry who continues driving her career and her employers’ business goals forward.
She never intended to be a professional within the supply chain but was "physically tackled" into the pallet industry during her days as a rugby player. Since then, she has spearheaded initiatives to share the importance of well-managed national pallet management programs; stays abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices; and creates an atmosphere where everyone feels equal.
Casillo encourages others in the supply chain space to not be afraid of being your true authentic self. Those who matter don't mind, and those who mind don't matter. If you have a passion for something, don't be afraid to work hard to pursue it.
Casillo was named the overall winner of the DEI Pioneer category for this year’s Women in Supply award, presented by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive, and sponsored by Let’s Talk Supply Chain and Blended Pledge program.
Marina Mayer, editor-in-chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive and co-founder of the Women in Supply Chain Forum, sat down with Casillo to discuss sustainable pallet management, supplier diversification and the importance of DEI efforts.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: Let’s first talk about you. Tell me a little bit about yourself and your journey to get to this current stage in your career?
Mary Casillo: Like many people, I never imagined I’d end up where I am today. I started my career in the fitness industry, and one day during rugby practice, a friend quite literally tackled me with a new opportunity. She said, “You should interview at the company I work for.” I thought I had a concussion. At the time, I wasn’t interested, but then the president of the company personally called to ask me to interview. Within a week, I had an offer. I took the leap and changed careers.
I quickly fell in love with the pallet industry. For a few years, I thrived. But over time, I noticed things that didn’t sit right. As someone who is masculine-presenting, I stood out in an industry that rarely sees people like me. I started to hear subtle comments and found myself in uncomfortable situations. I often used humor to defuse the tension—it worked, but it left me feeling like I was the punchline.
Despite that, I worked hard and brought innovative ideas to the table. I volunteered my time and energy to share those ideas, only to be told, “Not now,” or “That’s a great idea, but this meeting isn’t the right one to discuss.” Then, weeks later, I’d see the same idea presented by someone else in a meeting I wasn’t invited to. It happened more than once. I felt used and invisible.
The final straw came when I offered to represent the company on a podcast and was told, 'Someone like you could never be the face of this company.' I was left wondering—did they mean a woman? A gay woman? Someone who presents the way I do. Was I not professional enough because of my identity? I felt powerless. But I never let it affect my work ethic. If anything, it gave me clarity: I deserved better. My ideas were valuable, and I knew someone out there would see that.
That’s when I found Pallet Alliance. The interview process felt more like a conversation with genuinely good people who were simply looking to hire other good people. They saw my worth from the start. They wanted to hear my ideas about selling national pallet programs. And for the first time in a long time, I felt seen, heard, and valued. Pallet Alliance is the best company I’ve ever worked for.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: You exhibit passion and dedication to sustainable practices and innovative business development ideas. Why is sustainability so important, especially for today’s supply chains?
Casillo: Environmentally speaking, Supply chains are major contributors to global carbon emissions, deforestation, water usage, and waste. Sustainable practices—like reducing emissions, using renewable energy, and minimizing packaging—help mitigate climate change and preserve natural resources. Economically speaking, sustainable practices can reduce operational costs and improve long-term profitability.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: According to your submission, you’ve spearheaded initiatives designed to share the importance of well-managed national pallet management programs. Walk us through some of these initiatives.
Casillo: One of my top priorities right now is helping procurement professionals shift their focus from simply choosing the lowest-cost option through an RFQ to understanding the full picture through total cost of ownership (TCO). Pallets are far more complex than they appear. At Pallet Alliance, we bring together wood scientists, packaging engineers, and seasoned pallet experts to educate teams on the many factors that influence the design and success of a well-managed pallet program. Each solution we develop is customized to align with the specific efficiencies of a client’s manufacturing process. By taking a holistic approach to pallet management, we can drive greater efficiency and value across the entire supply chain.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: You also spearheaded the process of getting The Pallet Alliance certified as a veteran-owned diverse supplier. Why is this important?
Casillo: Pallet Alliance was originally a Women Owned Enterprise. That certification was lost when Pallet Alliance was sold to new ownership. When I found out that our majority owner served time in the military, I not only wanted him to be recognized for that, but I knew how important diverse suppliers are to the supply chain. Certification from a recognized body, like the National Veteran Owned Business Association (NaVOBA), adds credibility to your brand. It shows that your business has been vetted and verified. Supplier diversity is essential to the modern supply chain because it drives resilience, innovation, equity, and economic growth. Diverse suppliers often bring unique perspectives, niche expertise, and creative problem-solving.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: One of the pieces of advice outlined in your submission pertains to being your true, authentic self. What advice do you have for those female logistics professionals still unable to do so?
Casillo: First, know that you’re not the only one navigating this. Many women—especially those who are LGBTQ+, women of color, or gender non-conforming—face similar challenges in male-dominated industries. Seek out communities, mentors, or networks where you can share experiences and find support. Individually, start speaking positively of yourself to yourself. Be proud of even the smallest successes. It is okay to be your true self. For every one person that doesn’t see your worth, there are ten out there who do. Find your network.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: The DEI Pioneer category celebrates female leaders who continue to create and execute diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. What advice do you have for other supply chain professionals as it pertains to DEI efforts?
Casillo: DEI efforts are increasingly vital in supply chain management—not just as a moral imperative, but as a strategic advantage. Partner with suppliers who share your DEI values. Are you sourcing from minority-owned, women-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, or veteran-owned businesses?
Provide regular DEI training tailored to supply chain roles, covering unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, and cultural competency. Encourage open dialogue and feedback to foster a more inclusive workplace culture.
Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive: What are some things not addressed above that would be pertinent to share with our readers detailing your strengths, achievements, overall goals, etc.?
Casillo: I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for my beautiful partner, Hilary. She has encouraged me to be proud of who I am and reminds me every day that I am worth all the good things that come my way. I am forever grateful.
Also, a huge thank you to Pallet Alliance for seeing me, trusting me, and seeing my professional worth. I appreciate the team more than you’ll ever know.
Casillo will participate in live, in-person roundtable discussion with other overall winners from the 2025 Women in Supply Chain award at this year’s Women in Supply Chain Forum. CLICK HERE to register to attend and learn more.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the other 2025 Women in Supply Chain award winners.
