Cindy Russell, Continental, has been selected by the PTDA Foundation as the recipient of its 2024 Wendy B. McDonald Woman of the Year Award. The award recognizes a woman who established herself as a critical contributor to her company’s success in the past year and created positive change in the power transmission/motion control (PT/MC) industry at any level in her career. Russell was honored during the PTDA 2024 Industry Summit on October 25 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo.
In 2023, Continental’s group sector, ContiTech, pivoted from a product-centric model to a customer and industry-focused approach. Russell, as head of Distribution for Canada, led ContiTech through its largest reorganization in history, ultimately achieving the largest sales in North America for industrial distribution and power transmission distribution businesses.
“In 2023, when we needed Cindy’s leadership the most, she once again took our business and industry to new levels,” says Guy Enta, VP—Distribution Businesses, Continental. “She has a natural desire to work with people to find the best solutions where all involved win. Combined with her business sense, Cindy led Team Canada, from both a business and personal development perspective, to a great place in 2023. Her work helped advance not only the power transmission, but also our other distribution businesses.”
Russell, who’s enjoyed a 29-year tenure with Continental, says her belief in the products and the company has been instrumental in forging strong customer relationships. “Be proud of what you do. When you believe in what you’re selling, it builds trust between you and the customer.”
