How Resilience and 22 Years in Corporate America Built an International Supply Chain Business

Equity in Business

In this episode of the NMDSC Equity in Business Podcast, we feature Hector Quintanar, President of Trade Management Solutions (TMS). A minority-owned company certified by NMSDC as an MBE and Corporate Plus member, TMS is a leading international supply chain provider specializing in import/export, customs brokerage, all modes of transportation, warehousing, and distribution.

Hector exemplifies what it takes to thrive as a successful minority business enterprise through his journey of Learning, Earning, and Owning. In this segment, he shares insights from his international career, including roles at Xerox and Dell Inc., along with his training in manufacturing and corporate strategies at Harvard University. Hector also explains how 22 years in corporate America prepared him for his entrepreneurial path.

His advice to fellow MBEs includes:

• Develop the ability to navigate ambiguity.
• Empower yourself through continuous learning and self-encouragement.
• Be accountable to yourself and all your stakeholders.
• Raise your hand to take on the hard jobs.
• Luck is where talent meets opportunity.

This episode is a must-watch and listen for any entrepreneur seeking inspiration and practical wisdom.

Guest:
Hector Quintanar, president, Trade Management Solutions (TMS)
Host and Production Specialist:
John G. Daniel is a believer, advocate for underserved communities, and published writer, with vast transformative leadership experience in the energy sector, economic development, hurricane recovery, and youth/community education and empowerment. Itoro Umontuen is the Editor of this project and is an award-winning photographer, reporter, and mixed-media journalist.

About the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC):
Founded in 1972, NMSDC is the longest-operating business growth engine for the broadest group of systematically excluded communities of color (Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, and Native American), and our impact goes far beyond the supply chain. It’s about upward mobility for the emerging majority of Americans, an equal shot at participating in the American experiment of free-market capitalism and entrepreneurship. Our work is about correcting the unequal access to wealth-building opportunities. For more information, please visit nmsdc.org.
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