Latino Business Speakers Bureau: Al Dominguez
story by: David Gomez
Earlier this year, when the COVID19 pandemic began, there were many consumer products that were disappearing from the store shelves. Items such as toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap and other staple household items were nowhere to be found. Demand surpassed forecasts for these items and put unexpected pressure on the CPG industry. Fortunately, there are leaders in this industry who work tirelessly to ensure that supply chains are working as they should. One of those leaders is Al (Alberto) Dominguez. Al is Customer VP forWalmart at Kimberly-Clark and his focus is in ensuring that his team succeeds, especially during the pandemic. He says,“What I wake up every morning and then go to bed thinking about is how do I make sure that my team is successful” He takes his commitment very seriously because it means the public has access to supplies needed during these uncertain times. Al Dominguez has the heart of a servant-leader.
When Al’s family relocated to Miami in the 1980’s they were unfamiliar with the culture, the English language and did not have any family members living in the US mainland. His dad moved from San Juan, Puerto Rico for a job opportunity as an airplanemechanic and he brought his family along in this adventure. The family embraced their life in the US and the Dominguez children thrived academically. It was Al’s parents’ emphasis on academics and work ethic that set them apart. They didn’t focus on sports or other extra curriculum activities. As a result, all of the children completed their college education and two of them pursued post graduate degrees. Al’shasa Juris Doctorate from Florida State University College of Lawand found success early on in his career. He was the youngest General Counsel for the State of Florida and served under Florida Governor Jeb Bush. His outstanding achievements captured the attention of WalmartCorporate Office. He was recruited to lead the healthcare contracting organization and merchandising groups (household paper goods and chemicals). In his most recent role,Aljoined Kimberly-Clarkto leada high energy team that supplies Walmart. The products his team provides are crucial to fend off the effects of thepandemicand he takes pride in the service his team provides.
Among the great traits that sets Al apart is his heart for causes that focus on wellness. His involvement serving in the board for nonprofitorganizations traditionally focuses on health care or making lives better. He shares his passion for medicine with his brother, who is a medical doctor, even though Al studied law he finds opportunities to serve causes in the healthcare industry. Heis glad to make apositiveimpact in the lives of people who are hurting. Is a passion that brings him fulfilment.
When life’s unexpected turns create situations of uncertainty and ambiguityan effective leader must be willing to prioritize the wellbeing of his team. That is the kind of mind set that Al brings to work every day. He sees his leadership role as an opportunity to serve others andhe uses his talents to improve the lives of others.He is an example to the employees in his team and a model of leadership to the people he mentors. Undoubtedly, his success will continue inspiring others to offer the talents to improve the lives of others.