Kimberly McGee and Lela Davidson: Executive Co-Chairs, NextUp Northwest Arkansas

Kimberly McGee and Lela Davidson, Executive Co-Chairs of NextUp Northwest Arkansas join Jennifer and Risa in this extra special episode of The CPG Scoop. In this episode, Lela and Kimberly talk about the opportunities the Northwest Arkansas chapter of NextUp has provided them, their definition of leadership, and how they create a safe space to elevate other women.

Kimberly has been with Walmart for over 15 years, first starting in their technology division. She has since had the pleasure of working across the entire enterprise, having the opportunity to work in HR before her current role. She currently is Walmart’s Senior Manager in their Center for Racial Equity leading their racial solidarity strategy. Kimberly is passionate about community service and empowering women to succeed on a personal and professional level. When she first started with NextUp, she had an opportunity to start their mentoring program. She now serves as Executive Co-Chair for the Northwest Arkansas chapter alongside Lela.

As Business Innovation Officer for Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Lela develops new commercial projects and partnerships for the museum and it’s performance venue, The Momentary. Before joining the museum she was EVP Account Leadership & Client Partnership for Saatchi & Saatchi X, overseeing conversion marketing of world class brands for Procter & Gamble, Spin Master, Samsung, and others. Prior to that, Lela was part of an ecommerce startup where she built a country music entertainment and lifestyle media property and partnered with Nashvllle artists and their labels to create artist branded footwear and apparel. Lela began her career as a CPA and analyst for Arthur Andersen. Her NextUp journey started in a strategic role, working to build cohesion across the organization. From there, she moved into a community partnership role and communications before taking on the responsibility of Executive Co-Chair.