NWA Women in Business: Tina Winham

Residence: Rogers

Education: MBA, 2018, University of Arkansas

Professional background: Winham has more than 20 years of consumer packaged goods industry experience in sales, marketing and business development. She leads the Walmart beauty team at Conair. An advocate for women’s empowerment, she is chair of NextUp Northwest Arkansas and was appointed chair of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on National Service and Volunteerism.

What inspired you to pursue the career you are in? I’m passionate about making beauty accessible and helping people express themselves through how they show up in the world. My goal is to bring relevant, on-trend products to shelves that make people feel confident, seen, and empowered, no matter their background or budget. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that the work I do can play a part in someone’s self-expression and self-esteem.

Who was a big mentor to you in the early part of your career? One of the most influential mentors in my early career was Bruce Walz. He was the first leader who saw my potential and took the time to invest in me not just as a professional, but as a whole person. He cleared roadblocks, challenged me, and gave me the tools and confidence I needed to step into leadership. He showed me that kindness and effectiveness are not mutually exclusive, that you can lead with empathy and still drive results. I credit Bruce with helping me find my voice as a leader, and I’ve been fortunate to have other mentors who have continued to shape and stretch me.

What is the best leadership advice you have ever received? The best leadership advice I’ve ever received is to “lead with empathy, act with courage.” Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about listening deeply, staying curious and creating space for others to thrive. It also means having the courage to make the tough calls and advocate for what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable. The leaders I admire most are those who balance strength with compassion, and I strive every day to do the same.

What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry? Be bold, stay curious and never underestimate the power of your network. CPG and retail can be fast-paced and competitive, but there’s so much opportunity for women who are willing to raise their hands and advocate for themselves and others. Find mentors, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to take on stretch assignments. You’ll be amazed by how much you grow.

What are some of the leadership skills that helped you move up in your organization? Several key skills have helped me grow in my career: strategic thinking, resilience, and a strong ability to build trust and relationships. I’ve learned to anticipate challenges before they arise and think several steps ahead, while also making sure my team feels supported and empowered. Communication and collaboration have been essential.

What do you do to relax when not working? Travel is my reset button. I love immersing myself in different cultures, exploring new places and finding inspiration outside my day-to-day environment. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or an international trip, travel fuels my creativity and reminds me of the bigger picture.

What was your dream job as a kid, and why? As a child, I dreamed of becoming an interior designer. I’ve always been drawn to beautiful spaces and how they can influence the way people feel. With very little to work with growing up, I loved moving furniture around, reimagining rooms, and finding creative ways to make a space feel new and inspiring. I didn’t realize it then, but I was developing an eye for design and problem-solving skills that would serve me well in my career. Creating beauty and order, even in small things, gave me a sense of control, pride and joy.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? Public service has always been close to my heart, and I want to use my voice to advocate for issues I care deeply about, especially those affecting women, families and underserved communities.