DSN Women Leaders 2014: Jan Reed, Walgreens

Jan Reed, Walgreens corporate VP and general counsel currently is working on the completion of the second step of the Walgreens/Alliance Boots merger, which will fully combine the two companies. Reed brings experience across a number of industries, including service, health care and manufacturing, to her role at Walgreens. 

Reed also brings to the table “good old fashioned common sense,” she told DSN. “What is practical, what is the best solution for the business that simply makes sense and stays within the confines of the law and what can be effectively implemented?”

 The possibilities that can be realized behind merging the two cultures is what gets her excited about the business, she said. “[It’s] the limitless possibilities stemming from a newly global business seeking to expand even further [and] the combination of two cultures that will hopefully cross pollinate ideas and successes.”

Coming up through her career, Reed’s most important mentor was Bob Korzenski, the CEO of Solo Cup Co., where she served as general counsel and EVP of human resources for nearly eight years. “I witnessed firsthand how he handled the seemingly never-ending series of crises that he faced during his tenure, ... and learned how to maintain calm and order in the midst of a storm, how to motivate colleagues and employees throughout the ups and downs, and how to lead with grace and respect.”

When Reed is not working on the ins and outs of the merger between Walgreens and Alliance Boots, she serves on the board of directors for two organizations focused on giving back — Meals on Wheels Chicago and Umoja Student Development Corporation. 

To view the full DSN Women Leaders 2014 report, click here.