Lynne Wilson is the chief financial officer of PLM Fleet, a company focused on customer-specific refrigerated solutions in the cold supply chain. Starting her career at Ernst and Young in public accounting, she transitioned to a savings and loan institution in Hartford, playing a key role in its turnaround. Her career progressed through roles at Banc One, GE Fleet Services and GE Trailer Fleet Services, where she gained expertise in leasing, process improvements and financial management.

Throughout her career, Wilson has built a strong personal brand centered on process improvement, efficiency, robust internal controls and problem solving. Among her most notable accomplishments are several key projects that have recovered significant revenue for her organizations. One standout initiative involved identifying profitability drivers during her time at General Electric, which led to a transformation in branch management practices and an improvement in return on equity. She also conducted comprehensive asset and product line profitability analyses and redesigned pricing models, resulting in increased profitability.

Currently, Wilson is leading an enterprise resource planning implementation project that aims to produce efficiencies across all company departments, with the new process scheduled to go live in the coming months. This technology adoption represents a crucial step in transforming PLM’s business, and Wilson is proud of her team’s dedication and hard work in expediting this project.

“Lynne’s extensive experience in equipment finance and leasing, coupled with her exceptional ability to drive strategy and innovation, makes her an incomparable leader,” Keith Shipp, president and CEO of PLM Fleet, says. “Her vision and leadership have been critical in accelerating PLM’s mission, especially during the challenging pandemic years of equipment shortages.”

Wilson aspires to leave a legacy as someone who worked hard, was a team player and served as a role model for other women. Her dedication to the transportation industry has guided her career and led her into a mentorship role, as she uplifts other women and supports their paths to success. A mentor once advised Wilson that the best way to further women’s advancement is to “set an example by doing her job well, holding firm to her convictions and being resilient.”

As a mentor, Wilson empowers her mentees to take the lead in their day-to-day tasks and projects. She inspires them to be proactive in solving problems and identifying opportunities for growth and add value. As a role model for all, Wilson leads by example, demonstrating a commitment to the highest standards of ethics and integrity.

Wilson is also deeply committed to social causes. After learning about Truckers Against Trafficking at a conference, she led PLM’s initiative to join as a sponsor. She is involved with Project Chemo Crochet, which provides blankets to chemotherapy patients, and serves as a trustee of Enders Island, an organization focused on recovery and healing.

Wilson’s advice to others early in their careers is a collection of wisdom she has gathered over the years: “Do your job, avoid comparing your progress to others, stay focused on your growth, speak up, network and be confident in your skills and abilities. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, remain adaptable and volunteer for opportunities that may not be in your job description but will expand your personal growth.”

Throughout her career, Wilson has observed that success often comes not from being the smartest or having the highest GPA, but from taking initiative, working hard and demonstrating adaptability. •