by Nicole Needles

FOR ALEX ROELL, stepping into the material handling industry was less a calculated career move and more a leap of faith during a time of global uncertainty. After earning her Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a focus on International Business from Wilfrid Laurier University, Roell built her early career in the hospitality industry, first at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies and later in Queenstown, New Zealand.

“When the pandemic hit, I somehow managed to keep my job amongst the chaos,” she recalled. “But nonetheless, the hospitality industry as a whole was certainly struggling. Therefore, I decided to move back home to Toronto, Ontario, and try working for my family’s business, Concept Storage Solutions, which was started by my father, Pete Roell, in 1988. And that is how I entered the material handling industry.”

That leap has since evolved into a fulfilling career where Roell has discovered the unique value women bring to the field. “Women have an innate ability to connect with people on a deep level and show compassion for others. I think this is a skill that can be instrumental in business, especially when managing a team,” she said. “If you treat your team well, inspire them and lead with empathy, you’re far more likely to retain them.”

Still, entering the business as a young woman with no prior industry experience was daunting. She felt a lack of confidence in her knowledge and abilities. But she didn’t let that hinder her. She asked questions, signed up for courses and made learning a priority.

That self-driven learning shaped Roell’s leadership style, which centers on listening, adaptability and clarity. “Leadership to me is someone who motivates through connecting with their team on a deep level. A good leader is fair, hard-working and willing to be flexible with change,” she explained.

“People who feel like they are ‘seen’ at their workplace are likely under the command of a leader with good communication. The leaders who have inspired me most were the ones who communicated well, and that’s something I strive to emulate.”