With rapid advancements in technology, manufacturers are revolutionizing their operations to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, throughput, and productivity. In this episode, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott Luton and Kevin L. Jackson welcome Stefan Schulz, Senior Vice President, Business Supply Chain Quality and Operational Development at 3M to the show, as they explore how industry titans leverage technology to drive manufacturing success, especially for their workforce. Listen in as Stefan, Scott, and Kevin discuss 3M’s global supply chain footprint, the importance data-driven decision making, tools and innovations in manufacturing technology, the use of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics, empowering the workforce through engagement and training, and so much more. Tune into this insightful episode to learn how 3M and other manufacturers are leveraging technology to fuel factory success, stay ahead in a competitive global market, and also leave with practical advice for optimizing your own digital transformation journey.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Lushentha Naidoo, Managing Director of the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP), for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership and the business value of inclusive procurement. Drawing on a 14-year transformation career at Unilever and a personal journey from apartheid-era South Africa to global operations leadership, Lushentha shares how caring as a leadership “superpower” can fuel innovation, save jobs, and build psychologically safe teams. She explains how supplier diversity isn’t charity. It’s a competitive advantage that increases agility, strengthens resilience, and unlocks fresh thinking when disruption hits. She also breaks down how ESDP bridges corporates and diverse suppliers through a fast-growing database, networking events, and the Inclusive Procurement Academy, teaching pitching, storytelling, and “corporate readiness.” From real success stories (mentorship that kept a founder in the fight) to pragmatic guidance for senior leaders doubling down on DEI, this conversation offers actionable takeaways: define the why, build inclusive cultures, and widen the supplier funnel so the best partner wins.   This episode is hosted by Scott Luton, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton.   Additional Links & Resources Check out all the great resources and information mentioned during…