A Conversation with Susann Kazunas
As president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas, Susann Kazunas leads all production and administrative functions at the manufacturing facility that assembles the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia.
What's your favorite thing about working at Toyota?
I love working for a company that transforms peoples’ lives for the better. Employees, dealers, suppliers, customers and our local communities have a tangible, positive impact tied directly to Toyota.
What does D+I mean to you?
D+I initiatives create a work culture that values differences in employees, allowing every team member to bring their authentic self into the workplace. For Toyota to be successful, it is imperative that every member of the team can contribute to the best of their ability, which is only possible when each and every one of us can be our true selves.
Over the last year, what are some ways you’ve seen Toyota further its commitment to employee inclusion, belonging and wellbeing? Any new policies, initiatives, milestones, or stories of progress to share?
In North America, Toyota’s commitment to employee inclusion, belonging and wellbeing is best demonstrated by our daily commitment to our team members. We continue to offer incredible wages and benefits with supplemental benefits like tuition reimbursement and employee assistance programs.
In addition, our Business Partnering Groups (BPGs) allow members to connect, while celebrating group achievements. In addition to supporting BPGs through various resources, Toyota empowers multiple BPGs with regional summits throughout the year. Team members can brainstorm shared challenges, communicate best practices and network with like-minded coworkers across the country.
How do you think we can attract and recruit more women to careers in manufacturing, especially given the growing need for STEM and other high-tech skills?
The best way to attract women to careers in manufacturing is through exposure to the manufacturing environment and to people who work in the field. Toyota has a number of programs with local K-12 schools in the communities where we operate that promote firsthand learning and early introduction to the fun and excitement in advanced manufacturing.
There is also opportunity to highlight the women in our operations who took a job to make ends meet and found a career. Manufacturing jobs touch across multiple fields and provide incredible opportunity for growth and upskilling, while providing highly competitive wages.
What advice do you have for aspiring leaders, particularly women, who are looking to make a greater impact at work?
As you enter your career, while you are building your technical expertise, approach your role with passion and energy and an openness to learn. After you establish yourself within the field, find your voice, teach and advise others and seek opportunities to stretch yourself so that you continue growing. The best leaders do not look for acknowledgement and accolades from their supervisors. They find joy and accomplishment from the thanks of their team.