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…

All throughout industry, companies are using innovative technologies to transform successful planning within the supply chain. And nobody is more knowledgeable in the development and the cutting-edge solutions than Zheng Sui, PhD, the Vice President of Product Management and Head of Research at e2open, who pioneers advanced technologies for next-generation supply chain planning solutions. Listen in as host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Sui to the show as they delve into the importance of data in supply chain planning, the impact of AI, and e2open’s vision for the future of planning solutions, emphasizing connected planning. Listen along as Scott and Dr. Sui also discuss: Insights into AI algorithms and scenario planning The evolving role of ESG considerations in supply chain management Predictions for 2024, highlighting the need for flexible strategies and increased integration of AI