Supply Chain Now
Episode 194

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Supply Chain Buzz, Scott Luton, Greg White, and Chris Barnes welcome Karan Agrawal to the Supply Chain Now studios.

“I think every millennial today wants to be in a cross-functional role. And supply chain, by definition, is a global interconnected network which has many complex problems to solve.”

-Karan Agrawal, Operations Strategy at Dell

 

As Millennials and ‘Gen Z’ play a larger role in household buying decisions, their preferences are being driven into the operational heart of corporate strategy. From the ways they choose to find and consume information to their emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing, their consumer habits are leading major shifts in how today’s supply chains are built and run.

In this conversation, Co-hosts Scott Luton, Greg White and Chris Barnes spoke with Karan Agrawal, who works in an Operations Strategy role at Dell in Austin. He was originally attracted to the field of supply chain by his fascination with product life cycles – such as how a coffee bean goes from Costa Rica to a cup of coffee in the US. He also helped found a successful student chapter of APICS on the Georgia Tech campus in 2017.

 

Karan is currently working to create a logical data structure for Dell’s digital supply chain. Today that data is being housed in multiple different systems that reflect the needs of procurement, the supply base and product development. In order to fully realize the benefits of analytics, those data sources will have to be consolidated.

 

Karan shares his insight about how – and why – supply chains should leverage the unique characteristics of Millennials:

-They want to do work that they believe has purpose and which allows them to have a high impact on the company they work for

-They bring an alternate perspective on today’s business challenges that represents an important voice in the room

-They will translate their own high consumer expectations into an improved experience for the customers served by their company

Episode Transcript

[00:00:08] It’s time for Supply Chain Now Radio. Broadcasting live from the Supply chain capital of the country, Atlanta, Georgia. Supply chain. Now radio spotlights the best in all things supply chain the people, the technologies, the best practices and the critical issues of the day. And now here are your hosts.

 

[00:00:35] All right, good morning, Scott Luton here with you live on Supply Chain Now Radio, welcome back to the show. So on today’s show, we’re gonna be interviewing an outstanding, exceptional supply chain leader that will offer practical and interesting insights into a variety of things, including while millennials are perfect for a perfect for the splotched industry and tips for how current students can successfully break into the industry. So quick programing note like all of our series Supply Chain Now Radio, you can find our replays on a variety of channels Apple podcasts, SoundCloud, YouTube, wherever else you get your podcast from. As always, we’d love to have you subscribe so you don’t miss anything big. Thanks to all of our sponsors for allowing us to bring best practices and innovative ideas to you. Our audience. Supplychainrealestate.com. Verusen. The Effective syndicate ProPurchaser.com. Anymore. You can check out each of our sponsors on the show notes of this episode. So welcome in my fearless co-host today co-host team today. First off, Greg White Serial Supply chain tech entrepreneur and trusted advisor to many esteemed guru to some Hatoon. Greg.

 

[00:01:39] Oh, I’m doing well now. Now, Spike, you’re you’re Mike hot there. Yeah.

 

[00:01:45] Thanks. Hey, I am. I’m looking forward to this conversation. I have two millennials as as children, an agenda here. So I’m really excited to talk about this.

 

[00:01:56] I am, too. And of course, we are very familiar with Kahn or our guest. We’re getting through here in a second. And it’s great to have him back. We’ve collaborate with him on some previous initiatives and we’ve got an outstanding guest. But our other fearless co-host is Chris Barnes, the Apex coach and executive director of Apex Atlanta. Chris, how you doing? I’m doing fine. Great to be here. It’s great to have you here. That and again, I think we share we have shared enthusiasm for some of suffragan we’re be talking about. Okay. So now that I’ve double check to make sure everyone’s mikes are hot and I know our featured guest today can’t argue all global operations strategy analysts with Dell, Hatoon Khan doing well.

 

[00:02:35] Thank you so much for having me on the show.

 

[00:02:37] Oh, it’s great to have you back. And you’re you’re in Austin now doing some big things globally in a strategic role, which is outstanding. But, you know, we’ve known you here in Atlanta as you kind of matriculated through Georgia Tech, an outstanding supply chain institution. Wow. You know, giving back while you’re in school, you know, and amongst other things, you’re doing. And we’re gonna talk more about some of those things that you’re involved in, as well as some things you’re doing now and some of your insights and kind of suggestions and best practices for folks that want to want to be like Iran, like Iran.

 

[00:03:10] Shah Very, very happy to share.

 

[00:03:12] Well, so but for starters, I think we’ve got some news, some some supply chain new stores. Right. Right.

 

[00:03:17] Yeah. Well let’s let’s call them information stories. OK. We got to be careful about timing here because we’re recording this today. So there are a few people watching us today and then and then this will come out in a couple of weeks. So we’re trying to produce some interesting topics that people can listen to right now. Yes. Timeless information. So, yeah, I’m going to start with a couple of things that are interesting, but not news. So get this for Supply chain professionals books. Are still the number one source of inspiration, actual physical, not. Not even Kindle type books. So 73 percent of of Supply chain professionals get their inspirations from books now when they turn to screens. Then it changes a little bit, a little bit there. But you can even guess what is second two books. For inspiration. Twitter. Twitter.

 

[00:04:27] Love is there. Are you trying to say that with an accent? I’m not.

 

[00:04:31] Forty seven percent get their inspiration from documentary films and presentations. So your PowerPoints are not wasted, folks. So that’s I mean, that’s a pretty distant second. And events, concerts or gaming comes in third and then city trips comes in fourth. Really? Yeah. So, you know, when a screen is involved, which. Which. Oh. Oh, yes. And let me tell you that fifth guess what fifth is.

 

[00:05:03] He guesses Chris Carn podcasts. Very good man. He’s on it.

 

[00:05:08] Yeah. So when it comes to screens, you know, it is things like Twitter and social media and that sort of thing. But but yeah, we are actually above screens. We in the podcast industry. But books, right. Who thought it would? It’s hard and hard. How do they define city trips? Is that they didn’t define it. OK.

 

[00:05:30] City trips, museum visits or outdoor activity? Oh, gotcha. Also taken a visit. Statue. Right. But getting the family, the station wagon heading down.

 

[00:05:40] Yes. Gotcha. Yeah. And hey, you know, we’re talking about millennials. But, you know, books are still big. I have I have a twenty three year old daughter who refuses to read on a Kindle. We got her an iPad as a gift because she was such a voracious reader. She didn’t want it. She wants physical books. So that’s a really interesting because I also have a Jenny here. Who? She has a great GPA, but I’m pretty sure she’s never picked up a book. I don’t know if she actually reads physical books, so she does from time to time.

 

[00:06:15] We all get our come. I think we all have different preferences in terms of how we get our news and content and information is.

 

[00:06:20] Yeah, right. Yeah. Well, and let’s talk about genze and we’re gonna talk about your little brothers and sisters, Ryder genze right now. So let’s let’s talk about them. So believe it or not, genze is paying a bit. Playing a big role in family shopping as if that’s a surprise. Right. So if you’ve got anyone born between around 1996 and in 2016, their agenda here. Mm hmm. Right. So eighty seven percent of them have some impact on family shopping. And a lot of them have impact on on the way that people become aware of the companies that they’ll shop for sustainability. Right. Ethical sourcing and that sort of thing. So that’s an interesting an interesting carryover from their big brothers and sisters.

 

[00:07:11] And they have veto authority. Right. I’m sure they do. Eighty seven percent influent.

 

[00:07:16] I can’t tell you the number of times that my genze or Ashlynn has said we are not complete the sentence one way or the other. All right. Just one final thing. Yes. And this is good news. We talked we’ve talked about sustainability. That’s it. Look, that’s a big topic for us, right in the Supply chain. And McKinsey says that sustainable supply chains are just five years away. Hmm. Particularly in in the in the apparel industry, these companies are becoming really, really aware of who their vendors are, whether they’re ethically sourcing. Right. The kinds of materials that they’re using. And we’ve had we had a discussion yesterday with Raj Verma about how they that your vendors become. And suppliers become a part of your brand because people in and we’re going to talk about this in more depth. But people are digging deeper into who you get your goods from and whether that’s a good thing.

 

[00:08:09] Sheer research. Nielsen put out some research here in the last few weeks about how consumers are factoring that more into their decisions, more and more as proven. And so it will only continue to grow as we continue to see the generational transfers taking place that you’re alluding to. So, yeah, good stuff. All right. So that’s all from the Supply Chain Now Radio News Daryl News desk.

 

[00:08:31] Yes, that’s it. All right. So we’ve got a outsing, I guess.

 

[00:08:34] Won’t bring corn eggroll back into the conversation. So Carnel listless before we kind of dove into your experience with one an iconic technology company. Let’s get a little better. So tell us more about you and your personal and your professional journey.

 

[00:08:50] Shah So I was actually born and raised in India. Suspend that force 18 years in India and then at the age of 18 I decided to move eight thousand miles away from home to begin college at Georgia Tech here in Atlanta and just graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial engineering. This boss may and moved to Austin, Texas a couple of months back to start working in a global operations strategy role with Daryl. And that’s been a fantastic last couple of months. As far as my first foray into Supply chain goes, I think I fell into this field three years back and really has captivated me ever since. The way I started getting involved with this field was actually starting us to an organization at Georgia Tech called Apex, a Georgia tag to kind of inculcate supply chain awareness among students in a fun and engaging manner, whether that’s to talk series simulations or workshops.

 

[00:09:47] Sarkhan. How did a hit that won’t bring Chris in here? And given Chris’s Epix roots and stuff and SRI’s he wants learn more about that story. But real quick, how did what hit your radar that that were you kind of had that supply chain epiphany to say, hey, I want to do that. And then, of course, it seems like that led to you founding and volunteering and leading things. What what was that? What was that, a 50?

 

[00:10:10] Of course, I think at some point in sophomore year of college, right. Like most people come into college not knowing what to do. And that was basically me as well. I think somewhere along the journey I started getting involved in product life cycles. Right. Like I love to think about how does that coffee, which I drink in the morning. Where does it come from? Like, how do you do the coffee beans in Brazil? Kind of translate into coffee in my hand. So kind of end to end thinking or part lifecycles was really interesting, engaging to me. And I was like, what is the best field? Which kind of fits in to the understanding of product life cycles and Georgia tag-team position as a number one Industrial program. I’m just launching program of its kind in the country. For the last 25 years I was like, well, I’m literally at a place which is promoting supply chain interest and promoting I’m signing product lifecycles. So what better it is than just switched my major from mechanical engineering to industrial engineering. And that’s how I think my journey with this field started so sophomore year.

 

[00:11:10] That’s right. And Chris. He was the car was part of the GetOn the Apex chapter at Georgia Tech founded. That’s right. Which was you given all the success at Georgia Tech. Has all the great talent. They turn out year in, year out, all the the role they play in supply chain in technology talent. I was surprised, I think in Chris. I think we were both suppliers when we realized that they didn’t have a vibrate student chapter. Right.

 

[00:11:37] Right. You know how. So what was your motivation? Why would you start a chapter like that? Was our mentor somebody that said, hey, this is a cool thing or something?

 

[00:11:45] It was combination of couple of things. Number one was the fact that I realized that most people, after having finished a degree Industrial engineering, either go into consulting or go into banking. And not so many people take up a supply chain role. Right. And if you think about what really goes into an Industrial injuring educations, it’s feels like all patients research, supply chain, data analytics and whatnot. So I saw that there were more than three or four consulting clubs on campus. There are a lot of organization preventing data analytics, but there what wasn’t really an organization which is promoting supply chain awareness outside the classroom. So I think realizing that gap really made me kind of storm entrepreneurial mindset and entrepreneurial kind of interests. And I was like, hey, like there really isn’t an established forum today. Why don’t I start something which could hopefully three or four years down materialize and to kind of the premier supply chain organization here at Georgia Tech. And I’m ecstatic to share that. Even after me having graduated from college. We have a very interesting young, you know, Yosh Rod saying taking up this organization. I think that was a first read in the second one was that I was trying to get more, more involved on campus. And I just felt that, OK, like everybody studies, everybody does things in the classroom. I think what really differentiates an individual is really how involved you can outside the classroom. And that was one of the biggest reasons why I decided come to the U.S. in the first place, because I think that’s a big USP of the U.S. Education is how holistic in nature it is. So I think those two thoughts kind of kind of merged together. And I was like, hey, let’s tarde an organization which really is promoting supply chain awareness among students. And I think just learning and understanding myself, I was able to get my Sammons into this field.

 

[00:13:26] And you have never looked back since and it’s sustainable and you’re talking about endures.. You get new leadership that came up after the founders got together, made it happen. I think you’ve got you’ve had a lot of it. If you’re involved in any kind of student organization globally, you know, for it to really blossom, you’ve got to have the university or the school get behind it. Absolutely. And you’ll have a lot of that. Tim Brown, which is a great friend of the apical in a chapter, one of our sponsors here at Supply Chain Now Radio is an outstanding advocate for all things supply chain. But also you really got behind you’re the student chapter right here.

 

[00:14:00] Really did. I think without Tim Brown, we wouldn’t have been able to kick start this organization on campus. And I think even though students might have an interest and students might have ideas, it really needs to be channeled in the right direction. I think Tim really provided that particular strategic direction for the organization.

 

[00:14:17] Well, I think as the entrepreneurs and Froome can can attest, you’ve got the founders of something that’s going to endure. You’ve got to if you see is something that’s got to be done as you’re talking about, warm up, do it and carn you. And who else would you put kind of in that? Who helped you found founding a student standpoint, something without a Dods God?

 

[00:14:39] I think without you, we wouldn’t have been able to kick start this organization. Look at how you look at how you said we’d write to yourself. That’s brilliant.

 

[00:14:45] But from a student standpoint, you know, that you had as I recall, you had an outstanding group of leaders that kind of served that that form that first board, right?

 

[00:14:54] Yeah. So we had a group of four other students at four other friends who kind of got together behind this idea and thing. Like, I think what you what really stood out about them was the fact that they were really ready to take on a risk. Right. Because I think we talked about entrepreneurship. We talk about you organizations, and really there isn’t any reason to call it in a collegiate environment. So I think they were willing to go up and be onto what’s expected of them both in terms of putting in the effort and directing the vision and mission of what this organization is going to shape into us. I think the founding board of 2017 apic George Tech chapter was definitely kind of the foundational level behind which his organization has been has been shaping up.

 

[00:15:36] All right. So before we leave, Chris, anything else from a you know, obviously a apex? Linna helps a sponsor Supply chain Day at Georgia Tech. Y’all been the chapter’s been really involved. Any other commentary or questions from your end before we kind of Dobb Maureen to his transition from Georgia Tech?

 

[00:15:53] No, just as you had mentioned, your your protege. Ja ja Sheer thing saying he’s doing a fantastic job there. Georgia Tech does an excellent job in promoting their students to their career, to the workforce. I think they have 4 supply chain days now where a sponsor of twice a year. Yeah. So students are always there. It’s a great it’s a great opportunity for students to go out and meet the companies. But yeah. Yashar Rod is doing a fantastic job and you’re in your stead.

 

[00:16:16] Outstanding. And that’s what it takes. Yet as as whether it’s university groups and organizations or businesses, you know, the succession planning is so important. And that was something also very seriously. I recall some the conversations are heaven. You don’t find the health. Do you find that at the undergraduate level? So a lot of a lot of neat things there. But but let’s move on, because I love to hear about what you’re doing now at Dyl. But before you actually let me stop myself here, because you were already interning. You did some really internships while you’re you’re in school, right?

 

[00:16:50] Right. What you do. So I actually looked at Supply chain from three different lenses. And that’s the way I like to put it. I looked at Supply chain from a Industrial perspective, was working at comments based in Indiana. Then I looked at Supply chain from a government lands. When I worked in the preferential procurement space in South Africa. Based out of Johannesburg, working with the South African provincial government, which is extremely cool and different experience. And then I looked at Supply chain from a consulting perspective, working with Ernst and Young based out in New York City.

 

[00:17:22] What experiences? Wow, that is powerful. Really intentional, too. Yes. I mean, to target it from three different perspectives.

 

[00:17:29] Did you happen to meet Jenny Froome when you’re down South African tenant?

 

[00:17:35] So, Sara, a lot of people for ourselves.

 

[00:17:38] I’m being kind of funny, but yeah, Jenny helps to lead spics, which is the apex kind of at the apex organization in Africa that got that does a lot of what Apex does here in the States. And she’s a phenomenal person. So who made that connection later? But yeah, to your point, the global at the love/hate kind of framed it up in three different kind of lens, but also the global. How how? I can only imagine how that helped prep for what is the global Indian Tzachi industry these days. Right.

 

[00:18:09] Something. What are the biggest takeaway from all the three experiences was that. I think Brett in a lot of fields is depth and supply chain because a lot of people talk about like how different topics are so broad and you’re really not being a massara one field. But just because Supply chain today covers everything from how you procure items to the time it gets delivered to your doorstep. I think breadth in most fields is depth and supply chain. I think that’s something which I realized through my different experiences is that Supply chain today is such an evolving concept and that no company can advance today without supply chain being a competitive advantage.

 

[00:18:48] Outstanding. Loved it. All right.

 

[00:18:51] It’s funny. It seems like not that long ago we were just trying to make that case. It’s no longer a necessary evil. It it is a competitive urge. It will be, it seems like not that long ago. We’re saying you have to think of it as a competitive advantage, not to think so many companies do. They’ve made my transition now. Right.

 

[00:19:07] Well, I’m gonna tell you when I was in school is pizza and beer. So to hear about some some of these things you were involved in as you were getting ready for what’s a dynamite start to us, a Ryder.

 

[00:19:16] It’s a different kind of life preparation. Scott Slick. I felt prepared.

 

[00:19:21] All right. So moving forward, you graduated win May twenty nineteen. Okay, May twenty nineteen. And then you landed and an outstanding. I mean let’s let’s talk more about what you do at an iconic brands such as Dell. So talk about that transition and into what you do at Dell and then and then how that would onboarding has been like.

 

[00:19:43] Absolutely. So I work in Dell’s global operations strategy practice on that, and that is basically an internal strategy consulting team which drives executive prioritized as strategic projects for Dell Supply chain. And they’re kind of four different projects which this team kind of undertakes. And I can quickly kind of run you through those. You’re the forest type is commodity procurement strategy, which is basically around what type of supplier should I choose for X, Y, Z product. And one of the different factors that you consider the number two is projects are on Logistics strategy, which is which carrier should I choose? Should I ship something through air or ocean? The talk on projects are market analytics strategy, which is basically our own. Okay, how have my products performed compared to competitors and different quarters and where the different performance metrics I can tweak to make sure that Dell is really advancing its supply chain for products. And the fourth space, which I’m kind of involved in is digital transformation space. And I think that’s kind of the most interesting space to be in is because today no supply chain can function without being technology technologically enabled. And within digital transformation, we are working on technologies like robotic process automation. We are working on predictive analytics and really making the right commitment to the customer.

 

[00:21:02] But the product which offsite off with is a data. How do you project? And today, like data is the biggest Garnsey out there, right? And we are really talking about how we can create a logical data structure for data to lie in Della’s digital supply chain. And that’s kind of the overarching question which which me and my team are trying to solve. So it’s a fantastic team to be in. Just because as a consulting team, it’s full of a lot of ex consultants from McKinsey and BCG. So Delphine, a very credible team to be in. And we typically do a lot of these short term and long term projects. You you’re able to see the scope of the End to end Supply chain, which I think is is a great place to be in, especially when you’re young. I think the training and onboarding program is fantastic adult. We actually have two different programs. One is the Supply chain developing program and the second is a Supply chain graduate program. And it’s a bludging devolvement program is basically a three year rotational program where you’re able to take your in different teams in planning and procurement in Logistics. And in that way you’re really able to understand what End to end Daryl Supply chain looks like and I feel like.

 

[00:22:15] How so? Let me stop there for a second, cause how how important how important is that and how prevalent do you believe that that view is and that understanding is, especially for new graduates, new folks coming in the industry. It was at a is that an epiphany for a lot of folks, you think?

 

[00:22:32] So I think every millennial today wants to be in a cross-functional role. And Supply chain, by definition is an interconnected network which is global at an unavoidable, unavoidable right. And a network which has so many complex problems that today, if you ask any millennial what they want to do in life, everybody stays at 24, 25 won’t change. The world was right. And I feel that since Supply chain has so many complex problems which are all intertwined together and M.A.D. Today really want to use their analytical and technical skills at their best. There isn’t a benefit I can think about where they can really solve complex problems. Dan in Supply chain because even one change in option system has a crazy effect in the dahlstrom system. So there are a lot of moving parts and I feel like because you are in a field which has so many moving parts and it’s really an exciting time for any M.A.D. To be in this field.

 

[00:23:25] Well, you know, I think that it’s exciting time. I agree with you completely. Right. I think it’s an exciting time for anyone to be in Supply chain in this era. Right.

 

[00:23:33] Well, we’ve got the seat at the table. You talk about so often. Right. And and it is finally recognized as as a strategic advantage. And I think, look, millennials want to be involved in strategy. They want to be involved in something with purpose. You can have you can have purpose like we talked about sustainability. Right. You know, you can you can be part of shaping how things are made. Right. I mean, you can make sure that it’s ethically source that people are fairly treated right. You can have all of those impacts in the world. And it’s complex and fast moving. We used fast moving in a in another show. Right. So, you know, it’s it’s something where you can come in today. Right. And and everything is this way. You can come in the next day and you have to attack things from a totally different perspective. Yeah, right. For more of a consulting versus an operational perspective, for instance.

 

[00:24:29] So if you jump in supply chain, you better bring your force. Got running shoes these days, right? Because it is fast moving 100 miles an hour, hour in and hour out to all millennials.

 

[00:24:39] Forest Gump was a. Of, you know, Horska now I’d say. I know, right. I know they make you feel old every single day. So it’s a great movie, by the way. OK, yeah. One of my favorites.

 

[00:24:53] Watch it live the first time at Shepperton Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas. By the way, which Star Falls, Texas? Man, that’s forever good. 1994’s. And that movie came out OK. So, Chris Rock, I want to pose a question to you, because clearly corn is exceptional. All right. This is not the like my friends that were, you know, doing golf and beer and pizza in college. He was he would get prepared for a serious career. Is this. You know, when your passions get now, obviously, you don’t want education, not teaching, but also do a lot of networking with students, you know, across different universities. Is this is this typical for this level of engagement, this in twenty nineteen?

 

[00:25:35] Not really. I mean he’s he’s kind of exceptional in terms of just having the vision. And that’s why I was curious about his mentorship, who he had to encourage him to do those types of things. People. It’s interesting. I know if you remember, Carm, we met on the 50 yard line at Mercedes Benz Field. That’s when we officially met. We were on a tour there and that’s where we come. So that’s very cool. He was I said, who are you and what are you doing here at this Apex event?

 

[00:25:58] He said, Oh, well, I’m okay. That’s fine. Yeah. Yeah. Typical Chris Barnes. Yeah. So who are you? Some.

 

[00:26:04] It’s just along the students side. And you have it, you’re in a unique position to kind of maybe coach students that are in college now are coming up. Right. What? So I talk to students all the time. I can tell them what I think people do. But give us a perspective on two things. One, what do you do every day? I mean, it’s good thing to talk about strategy while carrying a selection of procurement. But what exactly are you doing? One and then two. Everybody wants to know what kind of tools. There’s an excel, obviously, that you know, the office space things. What types of tools should people be focused on?

 

[00:26:37] Absolutely. So the project which I’m focusing on and this is something just because I’ve been like two months new to this role, there’s obviously lots to learn. The project I’m focusing on is really a data strategy project, which I initially talked about and really understanding on how to create a logical data structure for Dell’s digital supply chain, because today data is being housed in multiple different systems like Agile Glow via a lot of different systems where it which housed data from a procurement perspective or from a supplier base perspective or from a product perspective. And today companies are asking about how can we really create a master data where all data elements can really reside in one system, both real time data and data, which is static. I think that is a project which I’m focusing on and kind of the data do really involves using tools like Excel and ballpoint, obviously. But even being even I’m saying I took on all tricks, which I’ve kind of started like up like starting understanding is it’s a very powerful kind of sequel. Plus excel on steroids because it’s able to crunch 2 million plus rows and like three or four seconds. Wow. So today I think data analytics platforms like Power be-I and all tracks are really making their way into spaces in an internal strategy groups within the Supply chain.

 

[00:27:59] That’s great to hear.

 

[00:28:00] So are you.

 

[00:28:01] Are you sitting behind your screen all day with the computer, just looking at data and trying to figure out what it means or now I think I think is a good bonds between going out of room and whiteboarding thoughts because either strategy group, you’re obviously thinking about ishow trees and frameworks and how to kind of break down problems into digestible chunks, as well as being able to validate our hypotheses using data and using and crunching like data and crunching numbers. So I think it’s a good bonds of being with a team and whiteboarding thoughts and sharing different perspectives because like what one person’s strategy is, it’s not the strategy of 17 other people. So really having that consensus and really understanding where we come from and then kind of validating your hypotheses using different logical arguments and data really helps us validate what the said. So I think it’s a good bonds between kind of high level problem solving and kind of jumping into the weeds and solving and using data outstanding.

 

[00:28:55] When you’re in those whiteboarding sessions, can you speak to you? Yesterday, we talked a lot about diversity of opinion and perspectives and inclusivity. Speak to when when you’re solving the problems and you’re laying out and plotting strategy, how you want to have a variety of voices in a room. How how important is that?

 

[00:29:12] I think it’s incredibly important because like your train of thought is not necessarily somebody else’s train of thought. Somebody might approach a problem from a top down approach. Somebody might approach a problem for bottoms up approach somebody. You might divide this problem in an internal and external factors. Somebody might divide this problem using customer or competitor or whatever different frameworks are exist. So there’s so many different ways to break down a problem. Like if you think about, oh, how do I want to lose weight? Right. You can lose weight by a surgery. You can lose weight by working out. You can lose weight by eating healthier. You know, like there’s so many different ways to think about a problem. And I think just in those whiteboarding sessions, I’m really able to understand not only not only whiteboard about things in supply chain things charge you, but even with personal life decisions. It really helps you kind of break down choices which I make into a kind of chunks and into different phases. So I think those wide boring sessions are incredibly helpful to gain diversity of thought, which I think is very important in the workplace.

 

[00:30:14] A bit. It is fascinating. I can only imagine how cool that is to start your career in general, but also in supply chain and doing stuff like that for an iconic brand that Dell is.

 

[00:30:26] Yeah. I mean, Dell was a disruptor in terms of supply chain early on when they started. I mean, computers weren’t made. The wait Dell made them in in Mass.

 

[00:30:38] Like we’ve got a Paul Harvey, the rest of the story coming.

 

[00:30:40] No, I’m not going to. If we don’t have time to extrapolate on that.

 

[00:30:43] But I mean, they were the originators of in transit. Right. Key postponement, mass customization, whatever you want to call it. But they really they were the originators of the keyboard. You’re coming from vendor A. The screens are coming from vendor B, the c.p user coming from vendor C, and they all gonna be there on the right time.

 

[00:30:59] They had to be because Michael Dell started the company in his dorm room in early heavy duty Austin. Yeah. Yeah. I mean, you know, he wasn’t making this stuff right. He he found good componentry and put it together and got people to buy a car and just a little bit more on that.

 

[00:31:15] So I frequently suggest to students that you the technical skills are important to have. That’s gotta get you the job. But once you have a job, it’s important to be able to speak, write and present. Am I over amplifying that ability to present? If you could kind of talk about that was. Did you have a communications class along your curricula that helped with that something while I was at Georgia Tech?

 

[00:31:38] I think since I was involved with a lot of different student organizations, naturally every week we had to give progress updates or we’d really had to kind of speak in an impromptu fashion. So I think I developed a lot of my communication skills that’s outside the classroom at Georgia Tech, and I think that is a transferable skills darkly into the workplace. Right. And today I think what really separates a good individual from an outstanding individual or an outstanding from a good individual is the fact that are you able to tell me everything that’s important to me within a minute to minute and a half, if you’re riding on for twenty, twenty five minutes trying to tell me different topics. It’s not really important to me, Rod, because executives today want to hear the key insights in the most like crunch talk fashion. So I think communication is incredibly important and being present to thoughts is even more.

 

[00:32:32] You know, I enjoyed Khanh when you spoke. I think the same event Chris is talking about. We had a regional Supply chain leadership conference that Tech hosted and you pube it with your colleague Neil Neil presented. I did and Neil did. And he was here. One of your successors.

 

[00:32:49] Right. So I think Neil took on the leadership of apic George Tech right after me.

 

[00:32:54] Yes, that’s right. You mean when Neil came out and Neil Patel came out and addressed the crowd? And it’s like you this the same mold you folks can stand deliver when you’re undergraduates and and also communicate succinctly, which so many folks, myself included, are terrible at. But it’s really fast. So let’s talk about let’s make sure we frame up your tips for starting where we’re not. What do we. Have we not broke? Stone, in terms of your tips for starting a supply chain career, I think no one is hustling hard, right?

 

[00:33:26] I think if I had, I wouldn’t have gotten those three different internship experiences. If I did, I’d be on the lookout for those experiences. Right. Like nobody’s gonna come knocking on your door saying, hey, this is an opportunity available to you.

 

[00:33:37] No, I’d like an opportunity as it gets you out of bed and drag you to it. Right. Exactly.

 

[00:33:41] I think you’re going to go out fishing for it in the sea. I think that has been one of the key lessons I’ve learned in college and something which I wanna tell all upcoming professionals and students in college is that try to get diverse work experiences while you’re in the collegiate environment, because there is absolutely no risk of failing. You know that you’re going to get different experiences. You’re going to get defined. Austria’s go to different geographies, expand your horizons. Like if you want to do something, go do it. Because once you start working, it’s hard to switch. It’s hard to get different experiences. It’s hard to go to different geographies. It’s like depending on what the business really needs. But I think while you’re in a college environment, definitely hustle hard for different experiences. I think my second tip would be start early. Right. I think what really allowed me to get these experiences was the fact that I started all of this in sophomore year. So definitely start early. Like you don’t have to figure out eight or Zio 41 doing life within the force one or two years. But definitely position yourself to be involved is to an organizations being involved in leadership activities, be involved in internships, be involved in conferences and talks like these, because I think that’s what kind of widens your perspective and allows you to get a foot in the door.

 

[00:34:58] You know, also, one of the things I’m hearing you say kind of through through like your commentary is you’ve got put yourself out there. Right. You’ve got to get out of your comfort zone. Right. You got to lead. You got to raise your hand. I volunteer, you know, cause it doesn’t come. Vanja. And these experiences temper you, right? And they and they get you prepared for for doing big things like you’re doing now. And so many folks know, Chris, we’ve seen we’ve seen it through the chapter. Very few folks volunteer to lead in and very few folks will are willing to get out of their comfort zone. And that’s only that’s one of the few ways you can really. Grow and develop and take on new things, right?

 

[00:35:35] Yeah. Very few people that not only do they not volunteer to lead, they don’t volunteer to follow either.

 

[00:35:40] That’s true. I mean, you do have to get yourself out there. Look, I think healthy Sheer.

 

[00:35:44] I’ve heard I’ve heard this and we’ve all probably heard this throughout our lives. Right. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know. I would argue that that’s a fallacy as well. It’s not it’s not even who you know. It’s who knows you, right? Yeah, right. That’s the key. I know a lot of people who don’t know me and I don’t offer them anything. But if somebody knows you and these internships and and involvement on campus and around campus, they’re great opportunities for people to get to know you. And the truth is, the job market, even though there are more workers than jobs out there, it’s it’s still very, very difficult. And to be seen as exceptional, you have to engage with people. We didn’t know you right before today. We didn’t know you. And we didn’t really. I did.

 

[00:36:28] Okay. I’m part of we we didn’t all know you.

 

[00:36:34] Right. And now more people know you and know how exceptional you are. And every opportunity you can get to get out there and and express and be yourself out there in the world is a great opportunity. I think that is a lesson as well as long as we’re teaching our lessons to millennials. Yeah, that is a lesson that needs to be taught, right. People can’t learn you from this. They can’t learn you from the pictures. You have to get out there and you don’t engage with people.

 

[00:36:59] All right. So moving. Let’s let’s transition. We only use the last segment of this interview to dove into something I know your real passion about. We’ve kind of set the table all right. For this last topic. So we want to talk with Khan about why millennials are perfect for supply chain. So I think we’ve got three or four items, right, that that that kind of give you this position. So let’s start with the first one.

 

[00:37:24] Something to just kind of establish context to this jerai. There are so many people out there who are graduating college and they’re considering careers that consulting and banking, which obviously great careers to be in. But I think very few people are thinking about being Industrial is like manufacturing Logistics just because they realize, oh, this is very slow and this is or I’m not going to learn a lot and a limited amount of time. Right. But I think that is that is kind of falls from the experiences I’ve had in mind during ships and so far at Dell. And I think there are three or four reasons why millennials should be excited about the field of supply chain. Number one is around Supply chain as a concept. Today is an incredibly complex concept, although it’s it’s comprised of different moving parts. Today, millennials want to be in roles which are challenging and they want to be roles in which a cross-functional and they want to have roles which have high impact. And as we initially talked about how Supply chain is really an interconnected network, they’re complex problems happening at every part of the supply chain, whether it’s a sustainable issue, whether it’s an issue on procurement, whether it’s an issue in manufacturing, whether it’s an issue about delivering it to customer at the right time, whether it’s same day delivery. There are complex problems happening at every segment of the supply chain. And while millennials today want to use their technical and analytical skills to the fullest enroll, they’re not they don’t want to run the mill jobs, wages in putting data into Excel, you just inputting data into systems. They really want to be at the forefront of crafting strategies backed by their Technical analytical skill sets. And I really gone thing off of a more interesting field. Dan Supply chain to be in for this, I agreed.

 

[00:39:14] And they want to do meaningful work and make an impact. And I think on the flip side of that, it takes leaders that are willing to give meaningful projects and task and initiatives and you name and guidance to in guidance to these these folks just kind of breaking into industry. And, you know, we don’t have to look far. We’ve got team members on our team here at Supply Chain Now Radio that have taken, you know, taken the bull by the horns and have made a huge impact.

 

[00:39:43] Can we get Clay to come on camera? Who didn’t? Probably not. Nope, but not one chance.

 

[00:39:49] But, you know, lead more and more leaders had the challenge for them is to give up something off their plate. The app, these bright, very capable professionals that were sitting in one right now, they can do big things, but it takes leaders that are willing to kind of let go a little bit, right?

 

[00:40:07] Absolutely. I think this is more I got to tell you, I have to say this. I’m sorry, but I did a big article on millennials. And everyone is so dumbfounded by how you manage millennials. Look, every generation is different than the past generation. That’s right. They’re not. They’re not. Aliens. Right. I mean, they’re not some sort of apparition. It’s. And they’re not all millennials. They’re, you know, don’t buy or hire. Ah, yeah. Right. There are unique nieces among among millennials. They’re not all heads down on their you know, on their devices. They’re not all, you know, unable whatever. They’re not all able to do or unable to do the same things. Right. And I think it it’s a bit of a dangerous generalization. Just like any generalization, all baby boomers are not the same. All Gen Xers are not the same. All millennials are not the same. But there are certain aspects there are certain things about millennials that that you can you can use or guide or extract. Right. In a business environment.

 

[00:41:12] And I think, you know, it’s just good for us to recognize that nothing fresh ideas and fresh perspectives like today, if somebody in Supply chain has been there for 20 or 21 years, they have one way of doing things. But when you bring in Southwire always done, right? Yeah, like that’s how historically has been done. And that in their mind is the right way. But when you have young supply chain talent coming in into the workforce, like how Dell kind of has 20 or 40 people who join every single year into a different debarked within supply chain, you’re challenging assumptions. And I feel as millennials, we are out there to challenge assumptions. Obviously, we’re we’re learning in in the right way. But I think changing assumptions is available and the concept and I think that’s very helpful in the Supply chain Patel as well.

 

[00:41:59] I think you might lutely I think you might be amazed that Gen X is pretty good at challenging assumptions. I mean, we we were brought up. We were the first digital generation. Right. It’s just that the predominance of. People who use non digital and and other types of of applications still remain in the workplace, though they are exiting the workplace at 10000 per day. That generation has been sort of washed over and held back by by that as well. But I think if you embrace some of your Generation X leaders, you will see their willingness briberies to change things.

 

[00:42:37] All right. So the first of the first of your reasons why millennials are perfect for supply chain is they enjoy that challenging nature of work, right? Absolutely. So what’s next?

 

[00:42:46] Selvin Next one is around how millennials today are demanding consumers themselves, right? Today, if I’m having a coffee and I love I love coffees, I’m always going to go back to the example of the coffee cup in my hand. Right. I really want to think about, OK, where is this coffee being sourced from? Is it being ethically sourced or I shop a lot on Amazon and every Malanda today is like Amazon is something that they obviously go to. How many different touch points is my Amazon package covering when it reaches my final door like ten or fifteen years back? All that cared about is has it been ship hasn’t been delivered. But today I want to know what are the defend bots in his journey when it gets to my my home? Right. So I think supply chain as a field can have direct applicability to millennial input as far as consumer preferences go, because if you really want, millennials will have an understanding of how their goods should be produced or what are the different goods. You own metrics to be taken into consideration. What are the preferences I should have as a consumer, which is supply chain supply chain should consider and kind of that direct relation between what a consumer ends up getting to how supply chain is such an integral part of its manufacturing. I think millennials, since they’re such teamone consumers, have a very interesting input into the supply chain field.

 

[00:44:10] You know, these days it’s not nearly as challenging and as it is in previous decades to identify and gage and measure that demand. Transparency. Yeah.

 

[00:44:21] Is is a lot more available than it’s been in the past or that they’d be able to see through the supply chain to the Southwire.

 

[00:44:28] But I also think about it just at our fingertips. Mean we’re measuring you can measure means of people with where they go on the web, right. Yeah. How much time they spend here, what they click on. All of that are such powerful information to determine what the demand is. I mean what a corser transaction per per ProPurchaser purchases, which has more visibility than ever before. You know, you remember back when these card supermarkets were first rolled out, I think we had the bonus card at Foodland when I was growing up. Yeah. And, you know, didn’t dawn on me as I was getting, you know, Captain Crunch or something, that it was they were tracking purchases. I was looking to get a discount of cabin crew. Sorry, but that was early. Tracking tools has just evolved where every single footstep in a retail environment is being mapped, right? Literally, yeah. Yes, it is.

 

[00:45:18] It absolutely is. What you’re looking at as well as what you’re buying, what you’re looking at not selecting is. I mean, that’s how transparent commerce is these days. Right. Right, right.

 

[00:45:28] And I think that’s part of what, to your point. KAHN That’s part of since millennials and genze, which is is matriculating into the workforce, they’re used to that environment and they bring, I think, powerful opinions and perspectives on how to how to leverage that information and that data for so companies can optimize or supply chain or optimize or go to market position or what have you, right. Yeah.

 

[00:45:53] They were brought up with with these technologies and with these things. Look, you create an expectation based on what is what you’re imprinted with. Right, at an early age. Ryan and you all were imprinted with technology at a very, very early age. So when the presumption there that technology should solve the problem is imprinted, right? That’s the presumption on, you know, to go back to our our generation. You’re not a millennial. Didn’t did the X-Man crowds in the the you know, on ours, it was maybe technology could solve the problem here. This generation, we’ve raised them to expect that technology can solve the problem.

 

[00:46:30] So you’re foreshadowing your final point?

 

[00:46:33] That is absolutely right. That was that was actually the point for a certain TV. Laughs. Spike the football force card.

 

[00:46:40] So I think the thought I think by far one of the most important reasons why millennials should be in Supply chain is that technology savviness off this wall of this like day and age, as well as how supply chain today can not. And I use a what can not function without being technology enabled. Right. Today we want data on how exactly consumers are thinking. Today we want to be able to predict what the lead time to a customer should be. Today we want to be able to kind of replace all man Process says with automation in the supply chain. Today we want where? Zeze, to have robots and stuff, humans doing auto picking for us. So technology today is something which is becoming increasingly, increasingly boring supply chain and that’s something a supply chain cannot do without. And today, like in college and throughout like my 18 years, we are literally born with a phone and a hand. We are we are glued to the screens. And it’s not only being just glued to the screen, but it’s also about life. We are very keen on what the new technologies are going to be. We love to kind of tune into the Apple keynotes every single year to really understand what technologies there are going on. So I think just because of the inherent interest of this day and age to be involved in technology and how supply chain today cannot function without being enabled by a strong technological backbone, I feel that the best kind of bar that these two across all Greene supply chain technologies from millennials to get involved with this field because the future of supply chain is a digital supply chain. It is. And I think that’s my final point is how technology savvy the day and ages.

 

[00:48:19] I would say the current state of Supply chain is digital bright. It’s no longer around the corner right now. You alluded to this on the front end of your interview about the digital transformation. Some that those initiatives you’re part of, right? Resistance is futile, right? It is here and alive and well. And there are companies like Bill, like many others that have embraced that. Right. And are figuring it out and doing it as a and doing it as they figured out maybe.

 

[00:48:50] So I’d argue that resistance is fatal at this point. I like that. It’s it’s worse than futile. I mean. But I you know, I came up in an industry that in the 90s was highly digital in the Supply chain, and I remain amazed at how far behind certain industries are. That have broader margins, often that’s what drives it in your industry. You have very tight margins. So you have to be very, very precise. Right. And we had tight margins. But but where the industries have a is a good example that we were talking about before. You know, I remain amazed at how much spreadsheet, how we presume that a spreadsheet is one of the tools that we’ll use or something like that. So I think they’re. Yeah.

 

[00:49:40] I think there is a nice faith. Fatal. That’s more it’s more than futile. It’s fatal. It. Well, hey, but I like it. I like that.

 

[00:49:47] And also like like what Chris said. Well, minutes ago. Hours ago. It feels like folks are just not volunteering to lead. They’re not volunteering to follow. That’s a good one. Let’s wrap up on this. He picks lands, one of our sponsors here at Supply Chain Now Radio. We’ve got a lot of respect and we admire that organization, which is now AFC seems a parent organization, of course. And Chris, I know you were talking in the warm up kind of the the overall kind of a high level overview of the impact that your AP6 involvement had on your career. Well, you’ve already alluded to it a couple different ways. But if you’re if you’re talking to undergraduates that maybe haven’t had the epiphany you had as a sophomore. Right. And regardless, supply chain, you name it. What would you want to tell those folks, not just about a pick, but also about Apex and just engagement in college?

 

[00:50:40] Absolutely. I think the first and most important thing which I learned from my experience and I think from all my different user experience on campus is take risks, right. That there is so much there’s absolutely nothing to lose. Like fail fast, fail often fail cheap. That’s a phrase which my dad often seems to me. He’s a life coach and he really talks about how fairly quick because like you own you get to Mr. Shores, you don’t decide to do. Right. Definitely try something. Worst case, you’ll fail. So I think no one advice to any undergraduates graduate or anybody who isn’t a collegiate environment is take risks because there’s very less to lose. Number two is, which I learned from the experience, is sometimes when you going to put yourselves out there as a sophomore? I was leading students who were juniors and seniors. And today in the workplace, you’re going to be at a position where your staff or people below you are going to be older than you. And sometimes they may not believe you. Sometimes you might challenge you. But that’s all. All for the right reasons. I really learned about bulletproof leadership. It’s really about leading from the front, but also how to lead without a title, right? Like if somebody was more experienced than you, even though you might have a better talent, you lower down that title because you’re going to learn so much more from their experience and they’re going learn so much from you, especially if they’re older, especially if they’re more experienced.

 

[00:52:07] I think bulletproof leadership is a second thing, which I learned from involvement. And third thing I learned is just like enjoy. I like that for years in college, these yards will never come back. Today, I’m back in Atlanta and I just reminisce all my days in college. Right. So even though I just graduate, if I was six months back, I think college is it is a time of alive life which will option never come back or talk to your parents. If you talk to people who are older like your friends, which you’re making college, are you gonna be our friends for life? So I think that taught part in while you guys are still in college and still learning a lot is just enjoy whether you’re learning inside the classroom, outside the classroom, doing whatever on the weekends, just absolutely enjoy because this time will never come back, ever. Those are kind of my three tips on what people write down college should do to kind of set themselves up for success. Love it.

 

[00:52:59] Well, you and you’re hearing it from someone that that navigate through one of the toughest universities, write programs and broken to the supply chain space with name-brand organizations to a big thing. So if you want to be like corn, listen to his helpful perspective. I wish I’d heard you on about 20 years ago. All right. So one of the big things we could easily bolt on a couple more hours to the Congress likes to. I think it is is fascinating and out and I think it’s fascinating to me because of just, you know, how young ja and slackware we’re now talking with a sage, someone this spike of malice.

 

[00:53:39] Yeah. We need to introduce you to Mike Miura.

 

[00:53:41] He also could be a dynamic power duo. Yeah. All right. So big. Thanks. Karan Agrawal, we want to we want to bring you back. You know, maybe after a few more months, as you continue to do big things that deal global operation strategy analyst with Daryl. Enjoy your time here this weekend. You got big plans. And safe travels back to Texas.

 

[00:54:02] Thanks a lot, Scott. And thanks a lot, team, for having me over. It’s an absolute pleasure privilege to be on this talk show at 22.

 

[00:54:10] So it really is. Thank you so much. Well, great having you.

 

[00:54:15] Yes, absolutely. I think we all learned. I’ve got three pages of notes. I really enjoyed it. All right. So don’t go anywhere. We’re going to wrap up today’s segment on Want Invite the audience, come check us out at a variety of trade shows we’re broadcasting live from before. But before we talk about that, Chris, one of the eight picks, Elana has got a variety of classes I think you’re leading. Speaking at Georgia Tech and like you’re leading classes next week, right?

 

[00:54:40] That’s right. We got a sold out CSICOP certified Supply chain professional class Monday through Wednesday afternoon.

 

[00:54:48] And if you had to, in a very small nutshell, why while CSICOP for folks, it’s just a it’s a 50000 foot view of the supply chain.

 

[00:54:56] It’s not you’re not going to learn how to do things, what you’re gonna learn, what’s going on across the extended supply chain.

 

[00:55:03] Outstanding. And you can learn more about all of that training that Chris. And then the whole team trained, not just here in Atlanta, but Chattanooga regionally. You can go to PIC’s Atlanta dot org to learn more. And we appreciate their sponsorship here. Okay. So beyond that, we’ve got a slew of events coming up starting next week.

 

[00:55:21] Greg, we’re we’re we’re going we’re going back to Charleston, back to Charleston, South Carolina, competes Council on Competitiveness. I said the whole thing that I’m South Carolina. Council on Competitiveness for their tech talk. So that’s the 23rd in beautiful Charleston. And I’m gonna say it again. Dinner at Magnolia’s.

 

[00:55:43] Absolutely. We, you know, registration’s still open. You can go to SC Competes, stop at war. But we’ve started to assemble our interview schedule.

 

[00:55:54] And it’s really I think we’re interviewing our friend Mike Amowitz again from South Carolina ports, correct?

 

[00:56:00] Maybe so. I got fast fetch. I’ve got CHF pilots, we’ve got Syntheo, we have DHL ship chain, which is doing some really interesting thing. Santoyo and ship chain. That’s cool stuff. ATDC, Logistics, you name it, a bunch of different folks that we’re gonna be interviewing throughout the day on October 23rd, but you can go to SC Competes dot org to learn more and still sign up I think. I think there’s still space available. We’re looking forward to being there throughout the event. And then we’re gonna be in Carns, neck of the woods in Austin, Texas. November 7th and 8th for the EAFE 2019 Logistics CIO forum.

 

[00:56:37] Yeah. Our friends at t_f_t_ just got acquired by Reuters events. So now CFT reuters’ events. Logistics CIO forum. Yeah. So we’re gonna help you keep it weird, huh?

 

[00:56:49] Oh yes. We’re gonna bring you back.

 

[00:56:52] Talk about your awesome experiences next time. Cause we’re looking forward to that. And registration is still open for that. We’ve started to build our interview schedule. In fact, our leadoff interview is with the chief technology officer with thaat Hub, which is a really interesting company based right here in Atlanta.

 

[00:57:07] About three hundred CEOs sharing ideas and information, fantastic venue and then context at the end of the year.

 

[00:57:16] We’re talking with a few of the folks for consumer events. But counter flips, we are doing a lab broadcast at SC Competes Atlanta roundtable in January. They’re going to have their exact the executive director of NASCAR track speaking. Can’t talk about some of the regulation changes and how it’s impacting the transportation industry. The Reverse Logistics Association Conference and Expo in Vegas in February.

 

[00:57:39] Yeah, great time of year to be in Vegas. Greene. And a really, really prominent topic these days.

 

[00:57:47] It is. And I hope people show up, not just go to Vegas. I guarantee that a long time to be in Vegas. That’s right. That’s right.

 

[00:57:53] But you know, that is it is a compelling aspect of supply chain. And we kicked off or reverse Logistics series several months back with our great friend Tony Shroder, who is executive director of the RLA. And it has resonated, you know, that that space does not get enough attention. Right.

 

[00:58:09] Talk about a great ability to support sustainability. Right. Reverse Logistics. I mean, you know, some of this stuff that’s being returned, it’s just being thrown out. Amazon has now been compelled to have a a way to continue to make use of return goods. And I think that’s a great thing.

 

[00:58:26] It will are the RLA doing a great, great job getting proliferating out best practices in such a critical aspect of Indian supply chain. And I’m also excited that we are bringing back Jack Allen. We are one of the great Supply chain Liegghio. Cisco is going to be on the show in November and he is how he does, Locky notes. He is a home run. He’s speaking of digital supply chain or digital Logistics, amongst other subjects. He’s a great gress, great guest. Looking forward to his appearance. Okay. So then beyond February 1 last announcement, mutex twenty one, the largest supply chain trade shows in in North America. Thirty five thousand folks are expecting Motet show dot com is free to attend. They are hosting our 20:20 Atlanta Supply chain awards. Yeah, we’re really excited about that. And we have one of our bright future award-winner. Right?

 

[00:59:14] If they did, we let that skip is his bio. Yeah. All right. We were timing it. Right? Very good.

 

[00:59:20] So the casebook can close that loop as part of the 2020 Atlanta Supply chain Awards. We’ll do what we did last year where we reach out to local universities and they name one of their leading students that have that have a. Well, a bright future ahead. Right. Exactly what is only a word. Khan was the winner from Georgia Tech last year and clearly living up to the billing. Serious this like a case study behind the award. Yeah, he’s doing big thing.

 

[00:59:48] Just like we knew, you know, like he won the Heisman and then didn’t do anything like that.

 

[00:59:53] Yeah, but so March 10, 2020. The 2020 Atlanta Supply chain would take place. Keynote. Shane Cooper, executive director with the Atlanta Committee for Progress. Christian Fisher, President, CEO of Georgia Pacific will be our keynote. You can learn more at a simple u._r._l. Atlanta Supply chain awards. Com Registration, sponsorship and nominations are all open. Yeah. Thanks to our incredible web development team and chief marketing officer Sheer Amanda. Okay. Good stuff. Well, big thanks again. Kahn It’s a pleasure. Sit back down. I think if if hopefully our listeners enjoyed as much as I did, you inspire people. And so whatever you’re doing, keep doing it right. Because folks need to hear your experiences and your key takeaways. So I’m glad that we could spend less our hour getting some of that out. Share that with our audience. So best of luck and we will see you next time you’re in town. Thanks God. Chris Barnes, great to have you back from your regional travels. You’ve got to get a charter plane for long. It’s always good to be back. Absolutely. And Greg, great week of shows. I think we had a Sheer just about every day this week, right?

 

[01:01:05] Yeah, we’ve been we’ve been burning it up, getting here to our our new studio, which I love, the Sandeep Supply chain Innovation Center.

 

[01:01:13] Yes. We are delighted to be a partner with and and helping to get the word out. Ηelp helping us solve problems. Right. That’s what we all spoke kind of spoke to that today. Yeah. Okay. To our audience. Be sure to check out other upcoming events, replays of our interviews, other resources at Supply Chain Now Radio dot com. You can Fanis find us on Apple podcast, SoundCloud, YouTube, all the leading sites where podcast can be found. Be sure to.

 

[01:01:36] Subscribe, right? So we want folks to the cash. Sorry, I’m so I’m still hung up on the alias I worked. Well, be sure to subscribe to DC.

 

[01:01:46] Please do. Daryl. On behalf of the entire Supply Chain Now Radio team, this is Scott Luton wishing you a wonderful week ahead and weekend and we’ll see you next time on Supply Chain Now Radio. Thanks everyone.

Would you rather watch the show in action?

Watch Scott, Greg, and Chris as they interview Karan Agrawal for Episode 194 at the Supply Chain Now studio.

Featured Guests

Karan Agrawal works in an Operations Strategy role at Dell in Austin, helping drive strategic projects for Dell’s end to end supply chain. He graduated with a BS in Industrial Engineering in May’19. During his time at Georgia Tech, he served as Founder and President of APICS at GT, interned in a variety of different supply chain roles across industries and geographies and helped grow the supply chain community at Georgia Tech. An award winning recipient of the Bright Future in Supply Chain Award, Outstanding Senior Award and the prestigious Campus Life and Community at Tech scholarship amongst others, Karan is passionate about inspiring millennials to join the field of supply chain and it’s pleasure to hear him speak with us on today’s show. Learn more about Dell here: https://www.dell.com/en-us

Chris Barnes is a supply chain guru, the APICS Coach, and the host of Supply Chain is Boring on Supply Chain Now.  He holds a B.S., Industrial Engineering and Economics Minor, from Bradley University, an MBA in Industrial Psychology with Honors from the University of West Florida.  He holds CPIM-F, CLTD-F and CSCP-F designations from ASCM/APICS, one of the few in the world. Barnes is a professional education instructor for the Georgia Tech Supply Chain & Logistics Institute’s Supply Chain Management (SCM) and University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Center for Professional Education certificate courses. Barnes is a supply chain advocate, visionary, and frequent podcaster and blogger at www.APICS.Coach.com. Barnes has over 27 years of experience developing and managing multiple client, engineering consulting, strategic planning and operational improvement projects in supply chain management. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn and reach out to him via email at: chris@apicscoach.com.

Hosts

Greg White

Principal & Host

Scott W. Luton

Founder, CEO, & Host

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Kristi Porter

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Kristi Porter is VP of Sales and Marketing at Vector Global Logistics, a company that is changing the world through supply chain. In her role, she oversees all marketing efforts and supports the sales team in doing what they do best. In addition to this role, she is the Chief Do-Gooder at Signify, which assists nonprofits and social impact companies through copywriting and marketing strategy consulting. She has almost 20 years of professional experience, and loves every opportunity to help people do more good.

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Kim Reuter

Host

From humble beginnings working the import docks, representing Fortune 500 giants, Ford, Michelin Tire, and Black & Decker; to Amazon technology patent holder and Nordstrom Change Leader, Kimberly Reuter has designed, implemented, and optimized best-in-class, highly scalable global logistics and retail operations all over the world. Kimberly’s ability to set strategic vision supported by bomb-proof processes, built on decades of hands-on experience, has elevated her to legendary status. Sought after by her peers and executives for her intellectual capital and keen insights, Kimberly is a thought leader in the retail logistics industry.

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Sofia Rivas Herrera

Host, Supply Chain Now en Espanol

Sofia Rivas Herrera is a Mexican Industrial Engineer from Tecnologico de Monterrey class 2019. Upon graduation, she earned a scholarship to study MIT’s Graduate Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain Management and graduated as one of the Top 3 performers of her class in 2020. She also has a multicultural background due to her international academic experiences at Singapore Management University and Kühne Logistics University in Hamburg. Sofia self-identifies as a Supply Chain enthusiast & ambassador sharing her passion for the field in her daily life.

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Demo Perez

Host, Supply Chain Now en Espanol

Demo Perez started his career in 1997 in the industry by chance when a relative asked him for help for two just weeks putting together an operation for FedEx Express at the Colon Free Zone, an area where he was never been but accepted the challenge. Worked in all roles possible from a truck driver to currier to a sales representative, helped the brand introduction, market share growth and recognition in the Colon Free Zone, at the end of 1999 had the chance to meet and have a chat with Fred Smith ( FedEx CEO), joined another company in 2018 who took over the FedEx operations as Operations and sales manager, in 2004 accepted the challenge from his company to leave the FedEx operations and business to take over the operation and business of DHL Express, his major competitor and rival so couldn’t say no, by changing completely its operation model in the Free Zone. In 2005 started his first entrepreneurial journey by quitting his job and joining two friends to start a Freight Forwarding company. After 8 months was recruited back by his company LSP with the General Manager role with the challenge of growing the company and make it fully capable warehousing 3PL. By 2009 joined CSCMP and WERC and started his journey of learning and growing his international network and high-level learning. In 2012 for the first time joined a local association ( the Panama Maritime Chamber) and worked in the country’s first Logistics Strategy plan, joined and lead other associations ending as president of the Panama Logistics Council in 2017. By finishing his professional mission at LSP with a company that was 8 times the size it was when accepted the role as GM with so many jobs generated and several young professionals coached, having great financial results, took the decision to move forward and start his own business from scratch by the end of 2019. with a friend and colleague co-founded IPL Group a company that started as a boutique 3PL and now is gearing up for the post-Covid era by moving to the big leagues.

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Kim Winter

Host, Supply Chain Now

The founder of Logistics Executive Group, Kim Winter delivers 40 years of executive leadership experience spanning Executive Search & Recruitment, Leadership Development, Executive Coaching, Corporate Advisory, Motivational Speaking, Trade Facilitation and across the Supply Chain, Logistics, 3PL, E-commerce, Life Science, Cold Chain, FMCG, Retail, Maritime, Defence, Aviation, Resources, and Industrial sectors. Operating from the company’s global offices, he is a regular contributor of thought leadership to industry and media, is a professional Master of Ceremonies, and is frequently invited to chair international events.

He is a Board member of over a dozen companies throughout APAC, India, and the Middle East, a New Zealand citizen, he holds formal resident status in Australia and the UAE, and is the Australia & New Zealand representative for the UAE Government-owned Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), the Middle East’s largest Economic Free Zone.

A triathlete and ex-professional rugby player, Kim is a qualified (IECL Sydney) executive coach and the Founder / Chairman of the successful not for profit humanitarian organization, Oasis Africa (www. oasisafrica.org.au), which has provided freedom from poverty through education to over 8000 mainly orphaned children in East Africa’s slums. Kim holds an MBA and BA from Massey & Victoria Universities (NZ).

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Adrian Purtill

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Adrian Purtill serves as Business Development Manager at Vector Global Logistics, where he consults with importers and exporters in various industries to match their specific shipping requirements with the most effective supply chain solutions. Vector Global Logistics is an asset-free, multi-modal logistics company that provides exceptional sea freight, air freight, truck, rail, general logistic services and consulting for our clients. Our highly trained and professional team is committed to providing creative and effective solutions, always exceeding our customer’s expectations and fostering long-term relationships. With more than 20+ years of experience in both strategy consulting and logistics, Vector Global Logistics is your best choice to proactively minimize costs while having an exceptional service level.

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Kevin Brown

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Kevin Brown is the Director of Business Development for Vector Global Logistics.  He has a dedicated interest in Major Account Management, Enterprise Sales, and Corporate Leadership. He offers 25 years of exceptional experience and superior performance in the sales of Logistics, Supply Chain, and Transportation Management. Kevin is a dynamic, high-impact, sales executive and corporate leader who has consistently exceeded corporate goals. He effectively coordinates multiple resources to solution sell large complex opportunities while focusing on corporate level contacts across the enterprise. His specialties include targeting and securing key accounts by analyzing customer’s current business processes and developing solutions to meet their corporate goals. Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn.

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Jose Miguel Irarrazaval

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Jose Manuel Irarrazaval es parte del equipo de Vector Global Logistics Chile. José Manuel es un gerente experimentado con experiencia en finanzas corporativas, fusiones y adquisiciones, financiamiento y reestructuración, inversión directa y financiera, tanto en Chile como en el exterior. José Manuel tiene su MBA de la Universidad de Pennsylvania- The Wharton School. Conéctese con Jose Manuel en LinkedIn.

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Nick Roemer

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Nick Roemer has had a very diverse and extensive career within design and sales over the last 15 years stretching from China, Dubai, Germany, Holland, UK, and the USA. In the last 5 years, Nick has developed a hawk's eye for sustainable tech and the human-centric marketing and sales procedures that come with it. With his far-reaching and strong network within the logistics industry, Nick has been able to open new avenues and routes to market within major industries in the USA and the UAE. Nick lives by the ethos, “Give more than you take." His professional mission is to make the logistics industry leaner, cleaner and greener.

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Allison Giddens

Host

Allison Krache Giddens has been with Win-Tech, a veteran-owned small business and aerospace precision machine shop, for 15 years, recently buying the company from her mentor and Win-Tech’s Founder, Dennis Winslow. She and her business partner, John Hudson now serve as Co-Presidents, leading the 33-year old company through the pandemic.

She holds undergraduate degrees in psychology and criminal justice from the University of Georgia, a Masters in Conflict Management from Kennesaw State University, a Masters in Manufacturing from Georgia Institute of Technology, and a Certificate of Finance from the University of Georgia. She also holds certificates in Google Analytics, event planning, and Cybersecurity Risk Management from Harvard online. Allison founded the Georgia Chapter of Women in Manufacturing and currently serves as Treasurer. She serves on the Chattahoochee Technical College Foundation Board as its Secretary, the liveSAFE Resources Board of Directors as Resource Development Co-Chair, and on the Leadership Cobb Alumni Association Board as Membership Chair and is also a member of Cobb Executive Women. She is on the Board for the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s Northwest Area Councils. Allison runs The Dave Krache Foundation, a non-profit that helps pay sports fees for local kids in need.

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Billy Taylor

Host

Billy Taylor is a Proven Business Excellence Practitioner and Leadership Guru with over 25 years leading operations for a Fortune 500 company, Goodyear. He is also the CEO of LinkedXL (Excellence), a Business Operating Systems Architecting Firm dedicated to implementing sustainable operating systems that drive sustainable results. Taylor’s achievements in the industry have made him a Next Generational Lean pacesetter with significant contributions.

An American business executive, Taylor has made a name for himself as an innovative and energetic industry professional with an indispensable passion for his craft of operational excellence. His journey started many years ago and has worked with renowned corporations such as The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. (GT) leading multi-site operations. With over 3 decades of service leading North America operations, he is experienced in a deeply rooted process driven approach in customer service, process integrity for sustainability.

A disciple of continuous improvement, Taylor’s love for people inspires commitment to helping others achieve their full potential. He is a dynamic speaker and hosts "The Winning Link," a popular podcast centered on business and leadership excellence with the #1 rated Supply Chain Now Network. As a leadership guru, Taylor has earned several invitations to universities, international conferences, global publications, and the U.S. Army to demonstrate how to achieve and sustain effective results through cultural acceptance and employee ownership. Leveraging the wisdom of his business acumen, strong influence as a speaker and podcaster Taylor is set to release "The Winning Link" book under McGraw Hill publishing in 2022. The book is a how-to manual to help readers understand the management of business interactions while teaching them how to Deine, Align, and Execute Winning in Business.

A servant leader, Taylor, was named by The National Diversity Council as one of the Top 100 Diversity Officers in the country in 2021. He features among Oklahoma's Most Admired CEOs and maintains key leadership roles with the Executive Advisory Board for The Shingo Institute "The Nobel Prize of Operations" and The Association of Manufacturing Excellence (AME); two world-leading organizations for operational excellence, business development, and cultural learning.  He is also an Independent Director for the M-D Building Products Board, a proud American manufacturer of quality products since 1920.

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Tandreia Bellamy

Host

Tandreia Bellamy retired as the Vice President of Industrial Engineering for UPS Supply Chain Solutions which included the Global Logistics, Global Freight Forwarding and UPS Freight business units. She was responsible for operations strategy and planning, asset management, forecasting, and technology tool development to optimize sustainable efficiency while driving world class service.

Tandreia held similar positions at the business unit level for Global Logistics and Global Freight forwarding. As the leader of the Global Logistics engineering function, she directed all industrial engineering activies related to distribution, service parts logistics (post-sales support), and mail innovations (low cost, light weight shipping partnership with the USPS). Between these roles Tandreia helped to establish the Advanced Technology Group which was formed to research and develop cutting edge solutions focused on reducing reliance on manual labor.

Tandreia began her career in 1986 as a part-time hourly manual package handling employee. She spent the great majority of her career in the small package business unit which is responsible for the pick-up, sort, transport and delivery of packages domestically. She held various positions in Industrial Engineering, Marketing, Inside and On-road operations in Central Florida before transferring to Atlanta for a position in Corporate Product Development and Corporate Industrial Engineering. Tandreia later held IE leadership roles in Nebraska, Minnesota and Chicago. In her final role in small package she was an IE VP responsible for all aspects of IE, technology support and quality for the 25 states on the western half of the country.
Tandreia is currently a Director for the University of Central Florida (UCF) Foundation Board and also serves on their Dean’s Advisory Board for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Previously Tandreia served on the Executive Advisory Board for Virginia Tech’s IE Department and the Association for Supply Chain Management. She served on the Board of Trustees for ChildServ (a Chicago child and family services non-profit) and also served on the Texas A&M and Tuskegee Engineering Advisory Boards. In 2006 she was named Business Advisor of the Year by INROADS, in 2009 she was recognized as a Technology All-Star at the Women of Color in STEM conference and in 2019 she honored as a UCF Distinguished Aluma by the Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Systems.

Tandreia holds a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University and a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management Systems from UCF. Her greatest accomplishment, however, is being the proud mother of two college students, Ruby (24) and Anthony (22).

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Marty Parker

Host

Marty Parker serves as both the CEO & Founder of Adæpt Advising and an award-winning Senior Lecturer (Teaching Professor) in Supply Chain and Operations Management at the University of Georgia. He has 30 years of experience as a COO, CMO, CSO (Chief Strategy Officer), VP of Operations, VP of Marketing and Process Engineer. He founded and leads UGA’s Supply Chain Advisory Board, serves as the Academic Director of UGA’s Leaders Academy, and serves on multiple company advisory boards including the Trucking Profitability Strategies Conference, Zion Solutions Group and Carlton Creative Company.

Marty enjoys helping people and companies be successful. Through UGA, Marty is passionate about his students, helping them network and find internships and jobs. He does this through several hundred one-on-one zoom meetings each year with his students and former students. Through Adæpt Advising, Marty has organized an excellent team of affiliates that he works with to help companies grow and succeed. He does this by helping c-suite executives improve their skills, develop better leaders, engage their workforce, improve processes, and develop strategic plans with detailed action steps and financial targets. Marty believes that excellence in supply chain management comes from the understanding the intersection of leadership, culture, and technology, working across all parts of the organization to meet customer needs, maximize profit and minimize costs.

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Laura Lopez

Marketing Coordinator

Laura Lopez serves as our Supply Chain Now Marketing Coordinator. She graduated from Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Occidente in Mexico with a degree in marketing. Laura loves everything digital because she sees the potential it holds for companies in the marketing industry. Her passion for creativity and thinking outside the box led her to pursue a career in marketing. With experience in fields like accounting, digital marketing, and restaurants, she clearly enjoys taking on challenges. Laura lives the best of both worlds - you'll either catch her hanging out with her friends soaking up the sun in Mexico or flying out to visit her family in California!

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Jake Barr

Host

An acknowledged industry leader, Jake Barr now serves as CEO for BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting, providing support to a cross section of Fortune 500 companies such as Cargill, Caterpillar, Colgate, Dow/Dupont, Firmenich, 3M, Merck, Bayer/Monsanto, Newell Brands, Kimberly Clark, Nestle, PepsiCo, Pfizer, Sanofi, Estee Lauder and Coty among others. He's also devoted time to engagements in public health sector work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. At P&G, he managed the breakthrough delivery of an E2E (End to End) Planning Transformation effort, creating control towers which now manage the daily business globally. He is recognized as the architect for P&G’s demand driven supply chain strategy – referenced as a “Consumer Driven Supply Chain” transformation. Jake began his career with P&G in Finance in Risk Analysis and then moved into Operations. He has experience in building supply network capability globally through leadership assignments in Asia, Latin America, North America and the Middle East. He currently serves as a Research Associate for MIT; a member of Supply Chain Industry Advisory Council; Member of Gartner’s Supply Chain Think Tank; Consumer Goods “League of Leaders“; and a recipient of the 2015 - 2021 Supply Chain “Pro’s to Know” Award. He has been recognized as a University of Kentucky Fellow.

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Marcia Williams

Host

Marcia Williams, Managing Partner of USM Supply Chain, has 18 years of experience in Supply Chain, with expertise in optimizing Supply Chain-Finance Planning (S&OP/ IBP) at Large Fast-Growing CPGs for greater profitability and improved cash flows. Marcia has helped mid-sized and large companies including Lindt Chocolates, Hershey, and Coty. She holds an MBA from Michigan State University and a degree in Accounting from Universidad de la Republica, Uruguay (South America). Marcia is also a Forbes Council Contributor based out of New York, and author of the book series Supply Chains with Maria in storytelling style. A recent speaker’s engagement is Marcia TEDx Talk: TEDxMSU - How Supply Chain Impacts You: A Transformational Journey.

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Luisa Garcia

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Luisa Garcia is a passionate Marketer from Lagos de Moreno based in Aguascalientes. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Universidad Autonoma de Aguascalientes, Mexico. She specializes in brand development at any stage, believing that a brand is more than just a name or image—it’s an unforgettable experience. Her expertise helps brands achieve their dreams and aspirations, making a lasting impact. Currently working at Vector Global Logistics in the Marketing team and as podcast coordinator of Logistics With Purpose®. Luisa believes that purpose-driven decisions will impact results that make a difference in the world.

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Astrid Aubert

Host, Logistics with Purpose

Astrid Aubert was born in Guadalajara, she is 39 years old and has had the opportunity to live in many places. She studied communication and her professional career has been in Trade Marketing for global companies such as Pepsico and Mars. She currently works as Marketing Director Mexico for Vector Global Logistics. She is responsible for internal communications and marketing strategy development for the logistics industry. She is a mother of two girls, married and lives in Monterrey. She defines herself as a creative and innovative person, and enjoys traveling and cooking a lot.

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Sofia Rivas

Host, Supply Chain Now en Espanol

Sofia self-identifies as Supply Chain Ambassador, her mission is to advocate for the field and inspire young generations from diverse backgrounds and cultures to join the industry so that thought diversity is increased and change accelerated. Recognized as Linkedin Top Voice and Linkedin Community Top Voice in Supply Chain Management, as well as Emerging Leader in Supply Chain by CSCMP 2024, Top Women in Supply Chain by Supply & Demand Executive 2023, and Coup de Coeur Global Women Leaders in Supply Chain by B2G Consulting in 2021

Public speaker at multiple international events from keynotes and panels, to webinars and guest lectures for bachelor's and master's degrees, discussing topics such as sustainability, women in the industry, technology and innovation. Writer at different online magazines on logistics, supply chain and technology. Podcast host and guest on different recognized programs in the industry. Sofia has more than 5 years of experience from academic research and field studies to warehouse operations, demand planning and network design. She has worked in manufacturing, airport operations, e-commerce retail, and technology hardware across Latin America, North America and Europe

Currently working as Supply Chain Network Design and Optimization Manager at HP within their Global Supply Chain and Logistics team

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Karin Bursa

Host

Karin Bursa is the 2020 Supply Chain Pro to Know of the Year and the Host of the TEKTOK Digital Supply Chain Podcast powered by Supply Chain Now. With more than 25 years of supply chain and technology expertise (and the scars to prove it), Karin has the heart of a teacher and has helped nearly 1,000 customers transform their businesses and share their success stories. Today, she helps B2B technology companies introduce new products, capture customer success and grow global revenue, market share and profitability. In addition to her recognition as the 2020 Supply Chain Pro to Know of the Year, Karin has also been recognized as a 2019 and 2018 Supply Chain Pro to Know, 2009 Technology Marketing Executive of the Year and a 2008 Women in Technology Finalist. 

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Vin Vashishta

Host

Vin Vashishta is the author of ‘From Data To Profit’ (Wiley 2023). It’s the playbook for monetizing data and AI. Vin is the Founder of V-Squared and built the business from client 1 to one of the world’s oldest data and AI consulting firms. His background combines nearly 30 years in strategy, leadership, software engineering, and applied machine learning.

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Amanda Luton

Vice President, Production

Amanda is a production and marketing veteran and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience across a variety of industries and organizations including Von Maur, Anthropologie, AmericasMart Atlanta, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Amanda currently manages, produces, and develops modern digital content for Supply Chain Now and their clients. Amanda has previously served as the VP of Information Systems and Webmaster on the Board of Directors for APICS Savannah, and founded and managed her own successful digital marketing firm, Magnolia Marketing Group. When she’s not leading the Supply Chain Now production team, you can find Amanda in the kitchen, reading, listening to podcasts, or enjoying time with family.

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Scott W. Luton

Founder, CEO, & Host

As the founder and CEO of Supply Chain Now, you might say Scott is the voice of supply chain – but he’s too much of a team player to ever claim such a title. One thing’s for sure: he’s a tried and true supply chain expert. With over 15 years of experience in the end-to-end supply chain, Scott’s insights have appeared in major publications including The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and CNN. He has also been named a top industry influencer by Thinkers360, ISCEA and more.

From 2009-2011, Scott was president of APICS Atlanta, and he continues to lead initiatives that support both the local business community and global industry. A United States Air Force Veteran, Scott has also regularly led efforts to give back to his fellow veteran community since his departure from active duty in 2002.

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Greg White

Principal & Host

When rapid-growth technology companies, venture capital and private equity firms are looking for advisory, they call Greg – a founder, board director, advisor and catalyst of disruptive B2B technology and supply chain. An insightful visionary, Greg guides founders, investors and leadership teams in creating breakthroughs to gain market exposure and momentum – increasing overall company esteem and valuation.

Greg is a founder himself, creating Blue Ridge Solutions, a Gartner Magic Quadrant Leader in cloud-native supply chain applications, and bringing to market Curo, a field service management solution. He has also held leadership roles with Servigistics (PTC) and E3 Corporation (JDA/Blue Yonder). As a principal and host at Supply Chain Now, Greg helps guide the company’s strategic direction, hosts industry leader discussions, community livestreams, and all in addition to executive producing and hosting his original YouTube channel and podcast, TEChquila Sunrise.

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Chris Barnes

Principal, Supply Chain Now
Host of Supply Chain is Boring

Talk about world-class: Chris is one of the few professionals in the world to hold CPIM-F, CLTD-F and CSCP-F designations from ASCM/APICS. He’s also the APICS coach – and our resident Supply Chain Doctor. When he’s not hosting programs with Supply Chain Now, he’s sharing supply chain knowledge on the APICS Coach Youtube channel or serving as a professional education instructor for the Georgia Tech Supply Chain & Logistic Institute’s Supply Chain Management (SCM) program and University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Center for Professional Education courses.

Chris earned a BS in Industrial Engineering from Bradley University, an MBA with emphasis in Industrial Psychology from the University of West Florida, and is a Doctoral in Supply Chain Management candidate.

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Tyler Ward

Director of Sales

Tyler Ward serves as Supply Chain Now's Director of Sales. Born and raised in Mid-Atlantic, Tyler is a proud graduate of Shippensburg University where he earned his degree in Communications. After college, he made his way to the beautiful state of Oregon, where he now lives with his wife and daughter.

With over a decade of experience in sales, Tyler has a proven track record of exceeding targets and leading high-performing teams. He credits his success to his ability to communicate effectively with customers and team members alike, as well as his strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

When he's not closing deals, you can find Tyler on the links or cheering on his favorite football and basketball teams. He also enjoys spending time with his family, playing pick-up basketball, and traveling back to Ocean City, Maryland, his favorite place!

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Kevin L. Jackson

Host of Digital Transformers

Kevin L. Jackson is a globally recognized Thought Leader, Industry Influencer and Founder/Author of the award winning “Cloud Musings” blog.  He has also been recognized as a “Top 5G Influencer” (Onalytica 2019, Radar 2020), a “Top 50 Global Digital Transformation Thought Leader” (Thinkers 360 2019) and provides strategic consulting and integrated social media services to AT&T, Intel, Broadcom, Ericsson and other leading companies. Mr. Jackson’s commercial experience includes Vice President J.P. Morgan Chase, Worldwide Sales Executive for IBM and SAIC (Engility) Director Cloud Solutions. He has served on teams that have supported digital transformation projects for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the US Intelligence Community.  Kevin’s formal education includes a MS Computer Engineering from Naval Postgraduate School; MA National Security & Strategic Studies from Naval War College; and a BS Aerospace Engineering from the United States Naval Academy. Internationally recognizable firms that have sponsored articles authored by him include CiscoMicrosoft, Citrix and IBM.  Books include “Click to Transform” (Leaders Press, 2020), “Architecting Cloud Computing Solutions” (Packt, 2018), and “Practical Cloud Security: A Cross Industry View” (Taylor & Francis, 2016). He also delivers online training through Tulane UniversityO’Reilly MediaLinkedIn Learning, and Pluralsight.  Mr. Jackson retired from the U.S. Navy in 1994, earning specialties in Space Systems EngineeringCarrier Onboard Delivery Logistics and carrier-based Airborne Early Warning and Control. While active, he also served with the National Reconnaissance Office, Operational Support Office, providing tactical support to Navy and Marine Corps forces worldwide.

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Enrique Alvarez

Host of Logistics with Purpose and Supply Chain Now en Español

Enrique serves as Managing Director at Vector Global Logistics and believes we all have a personal responsibility to change the world. He is hard working, relationship minded and pro-active. Enrique trusts that the key to logistics is having a good and responsible team that truly partners with the clients and does whatever is necessary to see them succeed. He is a proud sponsor of Vector’s unique results-based work environment and before venturing into logistics he worked for the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). During his time at BCG, he worked in different industries such as Telecommunications, Energy, Industrial Goods, Building Materials, and Private Banking. His main focus was always on the operations, sales, and supply chain processes, with case focus on, logistics, growth strategy, and cost reduction. Prior to joining BCG, Enrique worked for Grupo Vitro, a Mexican glass manufacturer, for five years holding different positions from sales and logistics manager to supply chain project leader in charge of five warehouses in Colombia.

He has an MBA from The Wharton School of Business and a BS, in Mechanical Engineer from the Technologico de Monterrey in Mexico. Enrique’s passions are soccer and the ocean, and he also enjoys traveling, getting to know new people, and spending time with his wife and two kids, Emma and Enrique.

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Kelly Barner

Host of Dial P for Procurement

Kelly is the Owner and Managing Director of Buyers Meeting Point and MyPurchasingCenter. She has been in procurement since 2003, starting as a practitioner and then as the Associate Director of Consulting at Emptoris. She has covered procurement news, events, publications, solutions, trends, and relevant economics at Buyers Meeting Point since 2009. Kelly is also the General Manager at Art of Procurement and Business Survey Chair for the ISM-New York Report on Business. Kelly has her MBA from Babson College as well as an MS in Library and Information Science from Simmons College and she has co-authored three books: ‘Supply Market Intelligence for Procurement Professionals’, ‘Procurement at a Crossroads’, and ‘Finance Unleashed’.

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Mary Kate Soliva

Host, Veteran Voices

Mary Kate Soliva is a veteran of the US Army and cofounder of the Guam Human Rights Initiative. She is currently in the Doctor of Criminal Justice program at Saint Leo University. She is passionate about combating human trafficking and has spent the last decade conducting training for military personnel and the local community.

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Constantine Limberakis

Host

Constantine Limberakis is a thought leader in the area of procurement and supply management. He has over 20 years of international experience, playing strategic roles in a wide spectrum of organizations related to analyst advisory, consulting, product marketing, product development, and market research.Throughout his career, he's been passionate about engaging global business leaders and the broader analyst and technology community with strategic content, speaking engagements, podcasts, research, webinars, and industry articles.Constantine holds a BA in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and an MBA in Finance & Marketing / Masters in Public & International Affairs from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Clay Phillips

Business Development Manager

Clay is passionate about two things: supply chain and the marketing that goes into it. Recently graduated with a degree in marketing at the University of Georgia, Clay got his start as a journalism major and inaugural member of the Owl’s football team at Kennesaw State University – but quickly saw tremendous opportunity in the Terry College of Business. He’s already putting his education to great use at Supply Chain Now, assisting with everything from sales and brand strategy to media production. Clay has contributed to initiatives such as our leap into video production, the guest blog series, and boosting social media presence, and after nearly two years in Supply Chain Now’s Marketing Department, Clay now heads up partnership and sales initiatives with the help of the rest of the Supply Chain Now sales team.

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Trisha Cordes

Administrative Assistant

Trisha is new to the supply chain industry – but not to podcasting. She’s an experienced podcast manager and virtual assistant who also happens to have 20 years of experience as an elementary school teacher. It’s safe to say, she’s passionate about helping people, and she lives out that passion every day with the Supply Chain Now team, contributing to scheduling and podcast production.

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Chantel King

Social Media Manager

My name is Chantel King and I am the Social Media Specialist at Supply Chain Now. My job is to make sure our audience is engaged and educated on the abundant amount of information the supply chain industry has to offer.

Social Media and Communications has been my niche ever since I graduated from college at The Academy of Art University in San Francisco. No, I am not a West Coast girl. I was born and raised in New Jersey, but my travel experience goes way beyond the garden state. My true passion is in creating editorial and graphic content that influences others to be great in whatever industry they are in. I’ve done this by working with lifestyle, financial, and editorial companies by providing resources to enhance their businesses.

Another passion of mine is trying new things. Whether it’s food, an activity, or a sport. I would like to say that I am an adventurous Taurus that never shies away from a new quest or challenge.

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Lori Sofian

Marketing Coordinator

Lori is currently completing a degree in marketing with an emphasis in digital marketing at the University of Georgia. When she’s not supporting the marketing efforts at Supply Chain Now, you can find her at music festivals – or working toward her dream goal of a fashion career. Lori is involved in many extracurricular activities and appreciates all the learning experiences UGA has brought her.

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Katherine Hintz

Director, Customer Experience

Katherine is a marketing professional and MBA candidate who strives to unite her love of people with a passion for positive experiences. Having a diverse background, which includes nonprofit work with digital marketing and start-ups, she serves as a leader who helps people live their most creative lives by cultivating community, order, collaboration, and respect. With equal parts creativity and analytics, she brings a unique skill set which fosters refining, problem solving, and connecting organizations with their true vision. In her free time, you can usually find her looking for her cup of coffee, playing with her puppy Charlie, and dreaming of her next road trip.

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Mary Kate Love

Chief of Staff & Host

Mary Kate Love is currently the VP of marketing at Supply Chain Now focused on brand strategy and audience + revenue growth. Mary Kate’s career is a testament to her versatility and innovative spirit: she has experience in start-ups, venture capital, and building innovation initiatives from the ground up: she previously helped lead the build-out of the Supply Chain Innovation Center at Georgia-Pacific and before that, MxD (Manufacturing times Digital): the Department of Defense’s digital manufacturing innovation center. Mary Kate has a passion for taking complicated ideas and turning them into reality: she was one of the first team members at MxD and the first team member at the Supply Chain Innovation Center at Georgia-Pacific.

Mary Kate dedicates her extra time to education and mentorship: she was one of the founding Board Members for Women Influence Chicago and led an initiative for a city-wide job shadow day for young women across Chicago tech companies and was previously on the Board of Directors at St. Laurence High School in Chicago, Young Irish Fellowship Board and the UN Committee for Women. Mary Kate is the founder of National Supply Chain Day and enjoys co-hosting podcasts at Supply Chain Now. Mary Kate is from the south side of Chicago, a mom of two baby boys, and an avid 16-inch softball player. She holds a BS in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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Joshua Miranda

Marketing Specialist

Joshua is a student from Institute of Technology and Higher Education of Monterrey Campus Guadalajara in Communication and Digital Media. His experience ranges from Plug and Play México, DearDoc, and Nissan México creating unique social media marketing campaigns and graphics design. Joshua helps to amplify the voice of supply chain here at Supply Chain Now by assisting in graphic design, content creation, asset logistics, and more.  In his free time he likes to read and write short stories as well as watch movies and television series.

Donna Krache

Director of Communications and Executive Producer

Donna Krache is a former CNN executive producer who has won several awards in journalism and communication, including three Peabodys.  She has 30 years’ experience in broadcast and digital journalism. She led the first production team at CNN to convert its show to a digital platform. She has authored many articles for CNN and other media outlets. She taught digital journalism at Georgia State University and Arizona State University. Krache holds a bachelor’s degree in government from the College of William and Mary and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of New Orleans. She is a serious sports fan who loves the Braves. She is president of the Dave Krache Foundation. Named in honor of her late husband, this non-profit pays fees for kids who want to play sports but whose parents are facing economic challenges.

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Vicki White

Controller

Vicki has a long history of rising to challenges and keeping things up and running. First, she supported her family’s multi-million dollar business as controller for 12 years, beginning at the age of 17. Then, she worked as an office manager and controller for a wholesale food broker. But her biggest feat? Serving as the chief executive officer of her household, while her entrepreneur husband travelled the world extensively. She fed, nurtured, chaperoned, and chauffeured three daughters all while running a newsletter publishing business and remaining active in her community as a Stephen’s Minister, Sunday school teacher, school volunteer, licensed realtor and POA Board president (a title she holds to this day). A force to be reckoned with in the office, you might think twice before you meet Vicki on the tennis court! When she’s not keeping the books balanced at Supply Chain Now or playing tennis matches, you can find Vicki spending time with her husband Greg, her 4 fur babies, gardening, cleaning (yes, she loves to clean!) and learning new things.

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Katherine Hintz

Creative Director, Producer, Host

Katherine Hintz, MBA is a marketing professional who strives to unite her love of people with a passion for positive experiences. Having a diverse background, which includes nonprofit work with digital marketing and start-ups, she serves as a leader who helps people live their most creative lives by cultivating community, order, collaboration, and respect. With equal parts creativity and analytics, she brings a unique skill set which fosters refining, problem solving, and connecting organizations with their true vision. In her free time, you can usually find her looking for her cup of coffee, playing with her puppy Charlie, and dreaming of her next road trip.

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