Jenny Patzlaff

Special Guest Blog Post written by Bernadine Henderson Ms. Henderson, senior director of procurement at Protolabs, lifts the lid on buying in manufacturing and why relationships are central to it.   Simply put, the job of a buyer is really about buying the right thing at the right time for the right price. It sounds simple, but it really is very complicated because everything that’s going on in the world impacts the timing, the availability, and the price of the product. This means that buying has recently got a lot more complicated. World events have very real consequences on global supply chains. Just one example is the way in which buyers have responded to tariffs in the U.S. by re-routing sourcing locations. It takes a certain amount of agility to be a buyer in 2025, and this quick responsiveness is helped along by one key ingredient, and that is strong relationships with suppliers. Relationships Built on Trust A widely held misconception is that buyers are only interested in getting to the lowest price possible. In fact, the most important thing to a buyer is for suppliers to bring solutions that deliver overall value. In my experience, a really strong supplier…

As the supply chain industry continues to face profound transformation, staying updated on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in the space is crucial. With over 464 million podcast listeners worldwide, podcasts have become an invaluable resource for professionals seeking insights and inspiration. The wonderful world of the web means you can find a podcast in any niche, but how do you separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to quality supply chain podcasts? To help you get there, we’ve curated a round-up of the top ten must-listen supply chain podcasts that will keep you informed and entertained. 1. Supply Chain Now Where to Listen: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now/ Hosts: Scott Luton and various industry experts. Best for: The go-to resource for insights into global supply chain performance. Featured in the Apple Podcasts business leadership charts in over 60 countries, Supply Chain Now is a renowned podcast for its extensive coverage of supply chain topics, including insights from industry leaders and experts. Hosted by Scott Luton and his team of industry-veteran co-hosts from brands like Amazon, P&G, and Nordstrom, the podcast delves into everything from logistics and transportation to technology and innovation. With a history of high-quality content and engaging…