Having data is table stakes. But can you find it? Make it consumable? Use it as a predictive mechanism? In this episode, Scott and Greg sit down with UPS Vice President of Engineering and Strategy Jill O’Dell to discuss the three steps you can take to unlock the business value of your data. Tune in as Scott and Greg chat with Jill about how companies can leverage their data as a predictive mechanism while gaining sharper insights, better inventory controls, reduced costs and more.
Intro/Outro (00:00:03):
Welcome to Supply Chain Now, the voice of global supply chain. Supply Chain Now focuses on the best in the business for our worldwide audience, the people, the technologies, the best practices, and today’s critical issues, the challenges and opportunities. Stay tuned to hear from those making global business happen right here on Supply Chain Now.
Scott Luton (00:00:33):
Hey, good morning, Scott Luton and Greg White with you here on Supply Chain Now. Welcome to today’s livestream. Gregory, how we doing?
Greg White (00:00:40):
We’re doing quite well. How are we doing? You doing? The other week –
Scott Luton (00:00:46):
The other week. We’re doing great, man. It is a gorgeous day in Metro Atlanta. I’ve got 70 degrees and lots of sunshine and the birds are going crazy today. So, something that’s certainly in the air. It could be spring or it could be March Madness, not sure yet, but we’ll know. Join us at on the late news 11:00 PM and we’ll –
Greg White (00:01:02):
It could be green beer, also.
Scott Luton (00:01:03):
It could be. It could be the birds are partaking maybe. So, you know, that’s not all the good stuff we’ve got. We’ve got a great show teed up right here, Greg. Today, it’s all about big data. And once you get the right data, cleanse and all, spick and span, you know how it goes, what the heck do you do with it? Well, good news. We’ve got a wonderful supply chain pro from a world class company joining us here today to answer the question, how to become a data-driven supply chain super competitor. Greg, it’s going to be a good, good conversation, right?
Greg White (00:01:35):
It is, and appropriate for St. Patrick’s Day, which everyone will see in just a minute when we announce who our guest is. But, yeah, I’m really looking forward to this. Look, data has been the topic of, it seems like the decade, but now we’re, you know, it’s more than just big data. It’s more just than just having data. It’s wrangling that data into something useful and we’re finally – it feels like turning our focus to that primarily.
Scott Luton (00:02:01):
Agreed. These days, having the data’s tables stakes it seems, as 10 years ago it was all about finding a way to accumulate it. But, hey, we’re going to hear from our pro here today, our guest, and, Greg, I know this is a topic you’re passionate about as well. And we’re going to hear from all the folks in the cheap seats, in the sky box, which we’re going to say hello to in just a second. But really quick nominations are still open through April 1st for the 2022 Supply Chain and Procurement Awards. Join us. Get those nominations in. We’ve got eight or nine different categories. We’ve got Deeds Not Words Leadership Award. We’ve got Champion of Humanity Award for service to others. We’ve got world class logistics. We’ve got technology trailblazer, you name it. There’s something for everybody. Wherever your operations are, you’re eligible to nominate. So, venture over to supplychainprocurementawards.com and join us, April 1st, deadline. And then, Greg, not next week, the following week, you and Kevin L. Jackson, who hosts Digital Transformers here, is going to be up at the Global Upstate Conference on International Business and Foreign Affairs in a couple weeks. What’s going on there?
Greg White (00:03:07):
Oh, we’re bringing in – we’re not bringing in. We’re part of a panel that’s being brought in from around the world to talk about international affairs. Genius, right? Especially, based on their title. And in our case, and particularly, Kevin and I, we’re going to be talking about emerging tech 5G supply chain challenges around the world. I have a feeling we’ll do some sharing offline as well as in these panel sessions because a lot of these people are business persons from around the world. I know that we have generals from Denmark and business people from all over Europe and the rest of the world. Hey, first of all, how about that? People actually meeting with other people.
Scott Luton (00:03:50):
Man.
Greg White (00:03:51):
We’ve seen a big upturn in that and we’re looking forward to this because, look, we need to get back to getting global perspectives on these things.
Scott Luton (00:03:57):
Agreed. Love the tagline, exchanging horizons, finding solutions. Love that. We can drop link in the show notes. I think it might already be there. But join Greg and Kevin Jackson for that. Okay. All that brings us to all the wonderful folks that are tuned in via the cheap seats. We want to hear from you all throughout the conversation here today. We have Mani tuned in via LinkedIn. Great to see you here. Josh Goodey is back. Josh is becoming a staple to these livestreams here lately via LinkedIn, ain’t hee, Greg?
Greg White (00:04:27):
Yes, he is. And we’ll not be talking about football [inaudible] football today.
Scott Luton (00:04:35):
James Benton is tuned in from North Cackalacky. Great to see you, James. Barbara, tuned in from Greenville, South Carolina. Talking about the upstate.
Greg White (00:04:43):
Hey, there we go.
Scott Luton (00:04:45):
Great to see you, Barbara. Devine Sports and Mentorship’s tuned in via LinkedIn, from Texas. Great to have you here today. Kelly from Murray, Kentucky. I wonder how far our guest is from Murray, Kentucky. Srivishal. I think I got that right or close. If I got it wrong, let us know. We want to get everyone’s names right, for sure. But great to have you here tune in via LinkedIn. Delilah, good morning from Vero Beach, Florida. Greg, do you think that’s the same Delilah that hosts that very popular evening radio talk show every day? What are the chances?
Greg White (00:05:20):
I don’t know. I haven’t listened to the radio in like seven years. So, I have no idea what’s on the radio these days.
Scott Luton (00:05:25):
Well, Delilah, regardless, great to have you here from beautiful Florida. Jonathan’s tuned in from New Jersey. Speaking New Jersey, big shout out to our production team, Chantel who hails from New Jersey as well. Amanda, Catherine –
Greg White (00:05:38):
How about we had a Wollschleager spelled slightly different from Texas.
Scott Luton (00:05:42):
Really?
Greg White (00:05:43):
Remember that? I cannot remember his first name, but he was frequently on the show, too.
Scott Luton (00:05:50):
Interesting.
Greg White (00:05:50):
Probably related, but like many people misspelled [inaudible]. One of them was.
Scott Luton (00:05:57):
Okay. So, we got a little – you know, Murphy’s Law is love and well with anything live these days. We’re getting some feedback –
Greg White (00:06:03):
Especially on LinkedIn. Yep.
Scott Luton (00:06:06):
LinkedIn has not played really nice in the sandbox lately, but, hey, there’s a bunch of hard-working technologists that are getting – that are working and figured all out. So, James and Jerry, I think they can hear what we’re saying, but they can’t see us. So, we’re looking into StreamYard, reaching out to our providers there and we’ll get it fixed.
Greg White (00:06:24):
You could also take a look at the feed on YouTube, Twitter, or Periscope, Facebook or Twitch.
Scott Luton (00:06:30):
That is a great –
Greg White (00:06:31):
Try. Getting the feed elsewhere.
Scott Luton (00:06:33):
That’s a great call out. So, LinkedIn is just a great suggest. It’s just one of five places you can tune in. So LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch. Yeah. YouTube. That’s one I was missing. I
Greg White (00:06:45):
It’s always funny we remember Twitch because neither one of us are gamers.
Scott Luton (00:06:49):
Right. All right. But –
Greg White (00:06:51):
If you want to be gaming, like playing a game and watching us down in the lower corner, you could do that.
Scott Luton (00:06:57):
You could do that. And people multitask certainly in across global supply chain. But the folks that do that the best perhaps are folks that are data-driven supply chain super competitors. And that’s what the –
Greg White (00:07:12):
[Inaudible] segue, Scott.
Scott Luton (00:07:13):
That’s the name of the game today. And, yes, the replay will be available. So, we’ll get past any technical glitches we have. But, nevertheless, let’s bring in our guest here today, Jill O’Dell, Vice President of Strategy and Industrial Engineering at UPS Global Freight 40. Hello, Jill. Good afternoon.
Jill O’Dell (00:07:31):
Good afternoon. How are you?
Scott Luton (00:07:32):
Doing wonderful. Doing even better now that you’re with us.
Jill O’Dell (00:07:35):
Glad to be here.
Greg White (00:07:35):
Yeah. Welcome aboard.
Scott Luton (00:07:37):
So, we really enjoyed our pre-show conversations. You’re quite the dynamo when it comes to a variety of different aspects of supply chain and, Greg, we came connect to the dots and figured out that she right is great friends with one of our favorites here at Supply Chain Now, Tandreia Bellamy.
Greg White (00:07:52):
Yes. Tandreia Bellamy. Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:07:56):
So, Jill, great to have you here on Supply Chain Now. Greg, where are we starting with Jill O’Dell on today’s conversation?
Greg White (00:08:06):
Well, we should start with what an appropriate last name for St. Patrick’s Day visit. I don’t know if that –
Jill O’Dell (00:08:12):
Me and my 6’5” Irish husband. Yes.
Greg White (00:08:16):
Six-foot-five. Holy mackerel.
Jill O’Dell (00:08:18):
Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:08:20):
Goodness, gracious.
Jill O’Dell (0:08:20):
Red hair.
Greg White (00:08:20):
Well, as you’ve probably learned, like any good Irish family, there are a couple things that matter. I’m going to stick to the food side of it, but also we hear you’re quite the global traveler. So, tell us a little bit about maybe a couple of your favorite places to visit and any favorite places to dine or foods, any of their cultural foods that you love.
Jill O’Dell (00:08:47):
So, I’ve been very fortunate. I’ve been all over the place, about seven. I got five of the continents done. I got to get to Africa. That’s the next one on the list, hopefully. But as far as my place, I like to go to the places that are different, you know. I’ve been to Singapore, Dubai, you know, all of those major Metro places, but, you know, the place that really struck me was Indonesia. I was – [inaudible] Sarabia and conveniently we had a weekend to spend in Bali, which I’ll never complain in about. And, yeah, it’s gorgeous and it’s – the culture’s so different. The people are so different. It truly is a different world, you know. So, often you go to these places and, you know, after a while, they’re all very shiny and Dubai is very shiny and Singapore is very clean and all those great things.
Jill O’Dell (00:09:30):
But I like to really feel the culture when I’m traveling, and in Indonesia, there is no not feeling the culture. It’s everywhere you look. So, I love that. It’s – now, I will say I didn’t love the food in Indonesia. Some of it was okay. For food, I’m all about Latin America, Mexico street tacos, empanadas, arepas, you name it. I am all about the food in South America and Latin America. I lived in Columbia for a year when I was young. And so, that’s my homeland when it comes to food. Get me some Mexican street tacos every time.
Scott Luton (00:10:03):
Sounds delicious, Greg. Huh?
Greg White (00:10:05):
Yeah. I mean, it’s what Mexico is famous for. And it’s attempted all around the world, but nothing –
Jill O’Dell (00:10:11):
Not the same.
Greg White (00:10:12):
Is the same, especially as Mexico City street tacos.
Jill O’Dell (00:10:16):
Yeah. It’s great. I have a little place I go to almost every time and it’s just fantastic. Tiny little dive of a place, but I’ll take it.
Greg White (00:10:22):
Don’t tell people.
Jill O’Dell (00:10:23):
No.
Greg White (00:10:24):
[Inaudible].
Jill O’Dell (00:10:24):
I have to tell you [inaudible] if I had to. I’ve been driving down there. It’s a mess, but –
Scott Luton (00:10:29):
Those are the best places. Those are absolutely the best places. Well, quick update, folks. We’re talking with the folks from StreamYard. We’re still have enough few folks that aren’t able to connect. The good news is the full replay is going to be made available early next week. And, we’ll have Jill come back with us. You know, as Greg mentioned, there’s been some connectivity issues between our platform and LinkedIn, in particular. We’ll get it worked out. Greg, you’re going to say something?
Greg White (00:10:54):
Also, some corporate VPNs hate to let the stream through. We’ve had that problem with big corporate VPNs as well. So, not that I would ever suggest that you surf your VPN, but you might try a personal device.
Scott Luton (00:11:08):
Right. Hey, Donna says she is on the team quarterback, maybe for the team, team street tacos.
Jill O’Dell (00:11:15):
I’m with you, Donna.
Scott Luton (00:11:16):
I’m with you as well. Okay. Well, let’s get into the topic of today’s conversation, which is going to be all about how to become a data-driven supply chain super competitor. And, Jill, we have really enjoyed our warmup conversations as we’ve been kind of pulling expertise from your experience and your point of view. So, today let’s start with the early key steps. We’ve identified three, maybe four, kind of depending on how we categorize it. But where do we start, Jill?
Jill O’Dell (00:11:47):
You know, finding the data. I’ve talked to so many of our customers who are global organizations and probably the most consistent thing is I can’t get the data from my plants, my vendors, my main, you know, my suppliers, whomever it may be. And that’s – I think that the, you know, you invest in data, it’s an investment, right? And in my opinion, the payback is tremendous. And so, finding those data sources, I tell people all the time, give it to me in crayon. I don’t care. I’ll make it that way, you know, and I believe that, right. I can hire people to go code, you know, type in information that’s manual. If it gets me good data. And so, you know, one thing I hear a lot is everybody wants it to be all pre-made and ready. But unfortunately that’s the investment part. You know, it has to get there. And when you have so many disconnected data sources, which is just the name of the game today, between the number of vendors and the way the supply chains are organized these days, you know, it’s not unusual to have 20, 30 vendors in a situation where you got to get information from them. And, the magic comes when you can sync all that together.
Scott Luton (00:12:55):
So, that teases up for step two. But really quick, folks, I’ve been told if you refresh the screen, everything should be working now. So, take a minute and refresh and join us for the rest of the conversation here with Jill O’Dell. So, Greg, she said, I don’t care. Just get it to me. I don’t care if it’s in crayon, you name it, pastels, whatever, if you want to paint it on. I just need to see what we’re looking at here. Greg, your thoughts.
Greg White (00:13:23):
Well, it makes me harken back. So, I’m a retailer by trade, right? It makes me harken back to the days when we used to get the data by fax machine and then have people key it in.
Jill O’Dell (00:13:32):
Highlights, right?
Greg White (00:13:34):
Yeah. Right. Fax machine is today’s crayon, basically. If anyone still has any, at least they’re often more legible than crayons, but it’s true. Get the data in whatever form you can to your trading partners. And then, most especially companies with the means like UPS has, they can deal with it, figure out how to collate it and make it useful to them.
Jill O’Dell (00:13:56):
That’s right. And there’s technologies out there to help you optical character recognition. You know, I mean, there’s always the pound, the keyboard people, who are just sitting there typing. But, you know, I mean, that’s manageable if it’s, you know, for your smaller situations to get you a better dataset.
Scott Luton (00:14:10):
Excellent point. Excellent point.
Greg White (00:14:11):
Yeah. That’s really a good point because there are – even if you have to send it in a PDF, right, there are devices, there’s technology now that can just read that and figure it out.
Scott Luton (00:14:20):
It’s amazing. Amazing where we are. Hey, really quick. I’m going to share a couple comments here. James, you’re back on it. Thank you for your perseverance there. Great to have you here today. Ahmad tuned in from Calgary via LinkedIn. Great to have you here, Ahmad. Get this, Jill, Bo says great to be on your team, Jill.
Jill O’Dell (00:14:37):
Yeah. Hi, Bo.
Scott Luton (00:14:38):
Awesome. Great to have you here, Bo. Greg, Srinivas is back with us. Srinivas, great to see you here today. Thanks so much for joining. And then, one final one. Delano. I think I got that right. “This one works. I love you guys. Supply Chain Now talks.” Hey, thanks for that. Really appreciate it. Smart people like Jill and Greg make us all look smart, which is a good way to be. Okay.
Greg White (00:15:00):
Maybe, he makes us look smart, Jill.
Jill O’Dell (00:15:03):
That works. I’ll take it.
Scott Luton (00:15:05):
All right. So, we’ve established the first step. You got to find the data. You get it, get it into the right hands. But then, Jill, what do we do next?
Jill O’Dell (00:15:15):
And you got to harmonize it. Right? And, we were, you know, we were talking about that a little bit earlier. You know, some people may call it a customs entry. Some people may call it a filing. Some people may call it a dossier. Whatever that language is, and again, this is where the investment comes in, getting that harmonized language so that, you know, once – you know, if you think of it as an Excel spreadsheet, right, once you get those columns lined out and you know which data to map to what field then game on. Right? That’s the most important part. Like I said, that’s where the investment comes in, the conversations with the people providing the data. What does this mean to you? What does this provide to you? And being making sure you understand it. Making those assumptions can be a bit of a rabbit hole sometimes.
Scott Luton (00:15:58):
Agreed. Now, Greg, one of our favorite terms around here is harmonize, right? Harmonization and always, whenever –
Greg White (00:16:06):
What name do you think of when you hear that word?
Scott Luton (00:16:08):
Oh, it’s easy. It’s always the same one. It is Ebony and Ivory with Paul McCartney.
Greg White (00:16:15):
[Inaudible] Stevie.
Scott Luton (00:16:16):
And Stevie Wonder. Yes. Sorry. I didn’t have enough coffee this morning, but that’s where my brain always goes when talk about harmonize.
Greg White (00:16:25):
[Inaudible] mind goes.
Scott Luton (00:16:25):
What?
Greg White (00:16:27):
Donuts. Now, who do you think of?
Scott Luton (00:16:31):
Oh, our friends at Verusen, for sure.
Greg White (00:16:33):
Yeah, of course.
Scott Luton (00:16:33):
Daryl. Daryl.
Greg White (00:16:35):
Yeah. Daryl Lu.
Scott Luton (00:16:37):
So, Jill, Daryl Lu who Greg’s talking about has come up with a scientific methodology of evaluating donuts and its serious work, data-driven.
Jill O’Dell (00:16:46):
That’s awesome.
Greg White (00:16:47):
It is, very, and because data harmonization is what he does in his career, not to get us too far off track, but he’s a very, you know, very intensive, intense, and intensive analyst of data, so.
Scott Luton (00:17:02):
Well, now bringing that full circle, Jill, our heavy hidden research team gave us a little factoid that your son, I believe, is a musician. So, harmonization, what does your son play?
Jill O’Dell (00:17:14):
He plays the bass along with some other things, but primarily in his band, he plays the bass. They just hit their first song with a million listens on Spotify the other day.
Scott Luton (00:17:22):
Wow.
Greg White (00:17:22):
Wow.
Jill O’Dell (00:17:23):
Yeah. They’re good.
Greg White (00:17:25):
Do you want to share it? Why not?
Jill O’Dell (00:17:26):
[Inaudible]. Anna, could you help me out? She’ll have the link for, but, yeah, it’s a band called Refractions. You can reach them on Spotify. But, yes, I’m obviously a little partial, but apparently a million other people didn’t mind listening to it either.
Scott Luton (00:17:40):
Wonderful. Refractions.
Greg White (00:17:42):
That is really cool.
Scott Luton (00:17:45):
Well, let’s drop that link if we can. Anna –
Greg White (00:17:47):
Please.
Scott Luton (00:17:47):
Thanks for your help.
Greg White (00:17:48):
Anna, please drop that in there. So, I don’t leave the feed, go listen to.
Scott Luton (00:17:52):
Right, right. So, let’s keep going down this path ‘cause really, step two, right? Harmonizing, synergizing the data. Tell us more about that, Jill.
Jill O’Dell (00:18:02):
So, you know, once you understand what that data is, I remember I worked on a project down in Mexico several years ago and that’s exactly what we were doing. And those mapping conversations were invaluable. They took a lot of time, but now we have really good solid data. We know exactly what’s what, and now it’s very repeatable. And now it’s just automatic. Once you spend that investment up front, you get that repeatable model and then you’re able to make decisions, right? And that’s the most important part of data, right? Data for data sake doesn’t matter. Data for decision making is where it matters. And so, you know, as much as physically possible, getting that end-to-end data from the time the product is created through post sales, so returns and, you know, what are the customer feedback and all of those things, getting that true end-to-end helps your marketing teams. It helps your cash flows. It helps your inventory management, everything along the way.
Jill O’Dell (00:18:57):
So, you know, for me, that’s really where the – like I said, that’s where the magic happens once you can get all that data into it. And there’s a lot of companies. You know, some people again think it has to be, you know, very, a huge financial investment. There are companies out there that will take care of your data. You can send them 17 data sources and they can get it synced up into a dashboard type of format that we use. The big phrase we’re using these days is democratize. We want to democratize that data so everybody’s able to go get it in the way that they need it without IT intervention, without, you know, having to manage all kinds of different login accesses and all those things. And so, for me, that’s really where the future is, being able to put information on somebody’s cell phone or on somebody’s desktop right there in front of them that they’re very easy to move around and manage so that they can do that. And there’s, like I said, there’s several companies out there that provide that.
Scott Luton (00:19:50):
Greg, first of several teacherisms here. Data for data’s sake doesn’t matter. Data for decision making is what matters. I love that. Greg, your follow-up thoughts.
Greg White (00:20:01):
So, we’re hearing a lot of that lately. And I think that’s really important is the people recognize that the decision doesn’t come from the data. It comes from determining the outcome that you desire and then utilizing data as the tool to give you that outcome or that information or that decision making guidance, or even some so much technology today, as Jill’s talked about, can even guide or offer that decision based on the data analysis that is done, so.
Scott Luton (00:20:29):
Right, right.
Greg White (00:20:30):
We can get a long way with data if we use it the right way.
Scott Luton (00:20:34):
So, I’m going to take a couple quick comments and we’ve got a couple comments already suggesting our step three, which is great. We got a very smart, brilliant audience, always have. TSquared says, “Great and timely topic. Data is always a business’ Soup the Day.” How about that? TSquared, I love that. Katie, great to see you here. Tuned in via LinkedIn. Let us know where you’re tuned in from. Harish is pursuing supply chain management post graduation. So, I hope you do find this conversation insightful. Great to have you here today with us. James, two important things: data and communication, especially in these fast-changing times we live in right now. Ikemefuna, great to have you back with us here today via LinkedIn. Remind us where you’re tuned in from. And then, finally TSquared is on – actually got two more. Memory, great, to have you back. Memory says, “Data outputs depend on the quality of the inputs.”
Jill O’Dell (00:21:27):
That’s right. That investment upfront, making sure you know what you’re getting and what it means. That’s the key.
Scott Luton (00:21:33):
I love it. Man, Memory, you’ve been on fire lately. Great to have you. Anna is on the spot with Refraction. So, y’all check that out. A million listens. Holy cow, they must be talented. And then, finally here’s our little segue, TSquared on the money. “But then, you got to clean it up and get it to its needed users in a timely manner. Otherwise, the data it’s useless and valueless.” So, that takes us right into step three. Jill, tell us more.
Jill O’Dell (00:21:58):
Yeah. So, you know, once you get that information and exactly like the comment said, you know, you know it’s clean, you know what it reflects, then you’re able to start getting it into it. Something that you can use. You know, distributing it whenever mechanism works. Again, there’s a lot of tools out on the market for that. And so, you know, then at that point you’re able to start enabling decision making and, you know, the one gentleman mentioned that, you know, it’s communication and data. You know, data is a great leveler. You know, you may think that one thing is, you know, this way or that way perceptually, but, you know, really when you look at the data, you go, “Oh, oh wait. It’s over here. It’s over there. It’s smack in the middle where it should be. And it’s not a problem after all.” And so, you know, being able to leverage that data and then put a logic to it. Like you said, Greg, you know, you got to put a logic to it afterwards, talk to people about the information. Make sure it’s, you know, everybody understands what it’s saying and it’s reflective of the real situation. ‘Cause if you don’t do that, that sinks afterwards, you know, then again, you could go down a path you don’t intend to. And –
Scott Luton (00:23:01):
But really quick, and those paths can be extremely costly. It can burn your team out. You could waste a ton of resources and lose a lot of time where the organization should be, you know the path they should be on. Right?
Jill O’Dell (00:23:13):
That’s right. So, from my side, you know, once you have that, then you can start driving things. And, the thing that, you know, I find really interesting from a manufacturer or a seller perspective is your inventory. You know, right now in the supply chain and market, we have, which, you know, for any of us, who’ve been in here any length of time, it’s crazier than it’s ever been. I’ve been doing this 25, almost 30 years. And, this is insanity, right? But by being able to have better data all the way upfront, from the time you’re issuing the purchase order, the time you’re creating the product, to have those forecasts and have that information so that you can tell me as a forwarder, “Hey, six months from now, I’m going to have a thousand containers.” We can start working in all – you know, we can start working with you to start planning those things out, make sure you have that space on those vessels, the space on the flips, and that being able to then manage your inventory, make sure it shows up at your plant when it needs to, not too early, not too late, and make sure that, you know, everything downstream happens on time and the way you need it to, and in a cost-efficient way.
Scott Luton (00:24:19):
Love that. It sounds simple. And a lot of folks in our audience will know it, but a handful of folks may not appreciate. Things getting there early can be just as bad as things get in there late. Right?
Jill O’Dell (00:24:29):
Yeah. The cost of inventory is going to be tremendous.
Scott Luton (00:24:31):
Yeah. Excellent point, Jill. All right. So, Greg, I know you’re itching to getting here. We talk about how we’re using clean data, step three. What else would you add, Greg?
Greg White (00:24:42):
Well, you know what, this is maybe a little bit different angle on this topic, but it makes me harken back to the days. And since, Jill, you’re a OG in supply chain, you’ve probably experienced this back to the days when all analytics and reporting and data was used for was to determine how you had hurt the company today. How did you fail the company yesterday? Right? And, I think that all of what, Jill, you’re talking about allows us to get in front of all that. Data can be useful as a predictive mechanism or in predictive mechanisms to help us avoid conflagration and conflict. And, you know, the more that we think about it from that perspective, how do we use data, cleanse data, harmonize it, even find it, to allow us to use it as a predictive mechanism, that is more and more the outcome that people need to be thinking about data’s most useful value not as a, quote-unquote, report. Our reports usually look into the past, right, and those looks into the past. I can tell you, I’ve been on both ends of those. They’re never pleasant.
Scott Luton (00:25:54):
TPS reports.
Greg White (00:24:55):
That’s right. Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:25:59):
I’m going to need you to come in on Saturday, Jill and Greg.
Jill O’Dell (00:26:01):
That’s right. Yeah, exactly.
Scott Luton (00:26:03):
All right. So, I’ll take a couple quick comments here. So, Ikemefuna is tuned in from Ottawa. I knew that, but thank you for reminding me. Great to have you here. James is adding, “Data is a symptom, a symptom of the system you designed. In regards decision-making, it is a check on your design, getting it to the right people so people can make the right decision at echelon and spacetime. Bad design or inputs will have issues.” Excellent point.
Jill O’Dell (00:26:30):
That’s right. Hundred percent.
Greg White (00:26:31):
I like the word consequence over symptom, but I know what he’s trying to communicate here. It’s the result of however you design your processes right and how you measure them. So, you have to be really careful with that.
Scott Luton (00:26:47):
Yes.
Greg White (00:26:47):
But even data from a bad design will give you data that proves it’s a bad design.
Scott Luton (00:26:54):
Which is helpful, right?
Greg White (00:26:55):
Or it won’t give you the data that you need to prove that it’s a good design.
Scott Luton (00:27:00):
So, I’m going to add Memory’s thing here. But you know –
Jill O’Dell (00:27:02):
That’s what I was just going to say too. Go ahead, Scott.
Scott Luton (00:27:05):
Speaking of words, we like harken. I haven’t heard the word harken in quite some time, Greg.
Greg White (00:27:11):
Did I say that?
Scott Luton (00:27:12):
You did. It’s like little William Shakespeare working a day.
Greg White (00:27:14):
Wow.
Scott Luton (00:27:15):
All right. So, Memory, again, right on the money here. And she’ll speak to this, but she says, “Correct me if I’m wrong, but simplifying data makes it accessible and practical to users at all levels of the company.” Jill?
Jill O’Dell (00:27:29):
You know, you’re absolutely right. We talk about this all the time. You know, you almost have to [inaudible] all the way down [inaudible], right. And especially as you go up in the organization or up in a supply chain, you know, it’s more and more important that you really key in on those key factors that are in a derivative change you’re looking to drive. And, Memory, you’re exactly right. It has to be consumable. And if you don’t have the right tool, you know, to do that, it’s going to be a challenge. Throwing mountains of data at anybody is not going to be consumed.
Scott Luton (00:28:01):
So, Jill, we’re losing you a little bit. It could be, you know, I think March Madness tipped off a little while ago and I bet everybody and their sister and brother is streaming right now that may be kind of halfway it and halfway not, that could be impacting us. But, Jill, I’m going to give you a chance. I think we got you back clear now. We caught the tail end to that, Jill, where you said Memory’s absolutely right. But could you give us – can you just share your answer one more time to that?
Jill O’Dell (00:28:24):
Sure. That’s the part she likes. But, yeah, she’s right. If memorization isn’t consumable, then, you know, it it’s useless. Again, it’s kind of what we’ve been saying this throughout. Right? So, you have to boil down into those key elements that really drive decisions, whatever they may be. So, making sure that, you know, you have those core factors that help you make the best decisions and some of that’s trial and error. Some of that’s talking to the stakeholders and understanding what pieces help them drive a decision. But, you know, you’re absolutely right. You have to simplify that data, but it really is boiling the ocean ‘cause it’s taking a lot of information and figuring out how to make it consumable.
Scott Luton (00:29:04):
Yep. You know, really quick aside, and we’re going to get a couple more comments, including one that says, “Greg nailed it.” Greg, that’s always good to hear. But, you know, when I was in Air Force, we would, you know, all these maintenance actions that were taking that take place on our aircraft, well, all, every single thing, even if you’re cleaning the windshield gets documented and put into this massive database and our team would run tons and tons of reports bring all that data down, but pick and choose, ensure data integrity, but then pick and choose what we share with the maintenance team. So, we don’t overwhelm them with tidal wave of data, but the right data that they need to act on or be prepared, you know, get out and ahead of certain maintenance issues and whatnot. But that’s – you know, it’s so easy these days, especially with what’s at our fingertips to just overwhelm folks with a lot of information or data that don’t even need – it’s almost irrelevant. And it takes attention away from what is important and those signals, right?
Scott Luton (00:30:01):
Okay. So, let’s share a couple comments and then we’re going to kind of ask Jill, what does all this get us? She’s kind of spoken to that a little bit. We’re going to expound a little more on that. Eric, great to see you here today via LinkedIn. He says, “Measuring the metrics of the data quality is a big issue. Getting coordinators to put the right data and is actually more important than the amount of time that they take to put the data in.”
Jill O’Dell (00:30:26):
Absolutely.
Scott Luton (00:30:26):
Excellent point there. James says, “Greg nailed it. Reports and data are from the past.” So, time travel is a thing, evidently. I’m not sure who this user is, but let us know if we could, Amanda and team. “Data is a precious thing and will last longer the systems themselves.” That was Tim Berners-Lee that said that.
Greg White (00:30:46):
Really true. And I think it – I mean, that does go to the point that you don’t use data just once. You can go back and learn from data again and again and again. If it is as Jill has said, if it you’ve found it, you’ve synchronized it and you’ve made it usable, then you can continue to go back to it and learn what it’s telling you with the augmentation of new data or different processes.
Jill O’Dell (00:31:13):
Well, history does repeat itself, right? I’m a huge history buff and history does repeat itself. So, if you have the information of what happened when we, maybe, tried this before, you can leverage that to then say, okay, what do we change this time to make it better?
Scott Luton (00:31:25):
Excellent point. But, Greg, going back to what you said, data is a gift that keeps on giving. It’s kind of like the Jelly of the Month Club is what I’m hearing, both y’all speak to. And, I believe this was Noam Eppel. Noam Eppel with Morpheus Network, I think, is who this shared. So, Noam, great to have you here and congrats ‘cause your company is one of our nominees for our Supply Chain and Procurement Awards. And then, finally Amrit is tuned in from Toronto. Great to have you here via LinkedIn. Quick question from James, Jill, if I can get -we’re going to – if you could address this one, I’ll read it off and then we’ll move into what’s all this get us. So, James says, “I’d love to hear Jill’s thoughts on how to synchronize data between organizations.” Jill?
Jill O’Dell (00:32:05):
So, my – I don’t know if my answer’s going to surprise you or not. For me, it starts with a contract, right? Whatever the contract is, as much as possible, I work to put my data requirements in there. So, there’s a legal, hard obligation for the vendors that we work with ‘cause you can imagine we work with vendors all over the world, every mode of transport. And, you know, as much as physically possible, we put that requirement out there up front. You must feed us data this way. You must allow us to access data in whatever way. And, as much as you can starting these relationships to get that data together, it obviously helps, right? It saves you time downstream. It’s not always possible. Of course, it depends on the situation, but as much as you can put it in the contract. That’s always my big thing ‘cause I work with a lot of contracts and, you know, the very first thing is metrics. My team honestly gets a little tired of hearing me, but I’m all about the metrics. You know, what is it that we’re expecting from them and what is the KPI to that? And then, you know, that helps downstream as much as we can get that upfront.
Scott Luton (00:33:09):
I love that. Those upfront contracts, formal and otherwise, are so critically important. Greg, your quick comment, and then we’re going to keep driving.
Greg White (00:33:18):
It is a surprise I’m sure to a big part of our audience to think, even know that you could include that in a contract, but you absolutely should and particularly in the areas of the marketplace that Jill works in because if it ain’t in the contract, that don’t happen.
Jill O’Dell (00:33:36):
That exists. Yeah.
Greg White (00:33:36):
That’s right. I mean, that’s something I’ve worked and that’s a quote a friend who owns a transportation company in Kansas City. And, as Jill knows as well sometimes even if it is in the contract, they don’t happen.
Jill O’Dell (00:33:48):
Right. But your odds are better.
Greg White (00:33:49):
But data is not – data has not been one of those things. It’s usually timely delivery. But in any case, I think that’s a really valuable thing to think about it and should be a revelation. And I’m sure is a revelation for a lot of companies to include it in your agreements with your trading partners to say this is what we must have to provide that. I’ve worked with a number of companies who have contracted that. And I, even I did not think of that as the key, but it is, absolutely the key, make it a legal obligation, just like paying the POS.
Scott Luton (00:34:23):
Yes. And then, of course, and we won’t dive in this, but who owns the data, right? These days there’s lots of conversations to go around that.
Greg White (00:34:31):
Yeah. Let’s – really quick. Katie says, “Like the old adage, ‘Knowledge is power.’ A well sourced data set is worth its weight in gold. Thank you for all your thoughts and expertise this morning.” Great to see you here, Katie. All right. So, Jill, we’ve got to – there’s so much I knew –
Greg White (00:34:46):
But we knew Katie’s in the – Katie is in the central time zone at the farthest east, right, ‘cause she said good morning.
Scott Luton (00:34:54):
Yeah. So, Jill, don’t scoot over –
Greg White (00:34:56):
Jill’s 10 minutes from this.
Jill O’Dell (00:34:58):
I’m like right away. Yeah. Right from the line.
Scott Luton (00:35:00):
So, Jill, I knew it, you know, I think all three of us are very passionate about this topic in data and kind of it’s fascinating to kind of see how organizations and just industry where we are today when it comes to data and the right data and taking actionable data. But what is all this? So, if you follow those three steps and we follow Jill O’Dell’s advice on how to become a data-driven supply chain super competitor. What does all that get us?
Jill O’Dell (00:35:24):
It gets you everything, right? It gets you better inventory controls, right? Cost of inventory is so high, especially with some of the transits we’re seeing, particularly in the ocean world right now. You know, that that cost of inventory, everybody needs to keep that low. And so, you know, that’s, for me, you know, an area that I know our customers are constantly focused on. How can I manage it? So, it’s there in time, not early, not late. It’s a constant conversation with us and our customers. And, you know, again, that forecasting, it all comes down to forecasting, right? That data feeds your forecast, you’re your inventory, feeds your receivables at the end of the day, right? Because if you forecast it well and everything moves on time, you’re going to get paid faster. And so, you know, to me, that’s where all that gets you. If you can do that right, you get better market insights, you get better for, you know, project, product development, then the forecasting then the inventory then the cash.
Scott Luton (00:36:17):
Wonderful. And we’re going to – I think you’ve got some kind of some use cases, some experiences we’re going to dive into in just a second. But, hey, Memory says, “The way Scott keeps driving, we’ll make it to the moon.” Hey, that’s the plan. We can talk about space, supply chain. But Memory, I tell you, Greg, if you recall, one of the teacherisms she’s brought in, and Jill’s brought a bunch, a truckload of teacherisms. Memory said to the other day, an informed consumer makes informed decisions. And that is so apropo to what we’re talking about here today, right? Because back to what Katie talked about, the old adage, knowledge is power. Okay, Greg, your quick commentary, and then we’re going to keep – we’re going to get some stories from Jill’s journey.
Greg White (00:36:56):
I think, you know, the most important thing I’ve heard here consistently is the way that we accumulate data with whom we share it, the obligations that we put on our trading partners to share it, and knowing the outcomes that we want for this data, those are the critical keys. Frankly, I love that we’re getting a three-step process. Right? Of course, there are a lot of interim steps and a lot of little nuances here, but this three-step process is simple. It’s easy to follow and it’s a great, at least, starting point for a process for how to actually capitalize on data, whether it’s internal or enterprise.
Scott Luton (00:37:38):
Yeah. That excellent point.
Jill O’Dell (00:37:40):
Find it. Organize it. Use it.
Scott Luton (00:37:41):
Yes. Yes. And get it and do that as much as you can on your own because I bet Jill’s consulting fees aren’t very competitive. So –
Greg White (00:37:52):
Well, I think also, you know, the ability to accept it via crayon becomes really, really important. I mean –
Scott Luton (00:38:01):
Agreed.
Greg White (00:38:02):
Virtual crayon, whatever that is in your world.
Jill O’Dell (00:38:05):
Hand, I mean, [inaudible] Asia, you know, a lot of those countries still are handwriting. You know, we get waybills that are handwritten every day.
Scott Luton (00:38:13):
Yes. It makes me think, you know, we’re talking about Refractions and your son’s band, you know, come as you are. I think that Nirvana’s saying that and that’s kind of what I’m hearing here. Send me – whatever the current state is, just send it to me. We’ll work through it.
Jill O’Dell (00:38:27):
That’s right.
Scott Luton (00:38:28):
Okay. So, Jill, back to kind of story time. So, plot change, story time. Tell us about some examples you’ve seen that folks follow these best practices and some of the things we’re talking about.
Jill O’Dell (00:38:38):
The first time that this really hit my radar and I really felt like, ah, they got it, was a customer I worked with a handful of years ago and what they did was they pulled that end-to-end data from beginning to end, and they had a very good tool. And what they were able to realize through that data is, they were shipping goods from China to the US. They realized through their information that they were getting a tax break in Dominican Republic. So, they used – they -out of all this information, they were realized that if they sold the materials to Dominican Republic, they got a huge tax break and then they still drop shipped it. The shipment itself didn’t change how the transit moved, but they were able to get this tax advantage by shipping it, selling it to Dominican Republic and then turning around and selling it to the US, all very legal and obviously I’m not a tax person. But they, you know, they were really able to save a tremendous amount of money by doing that.
Jill O’Dell (00:39:34):
Again, I don’t know all the tax rules, but again they had all the right players, they had all the right information and they were able to really redesign their supply chain. One thing this company did that was very good was before they decided where they were going to source a good, they looked at the custom taxes on export. They looked at the custom taxes on import. How are they going to flow all of that? It’s not just about transportation. It’s about, you know, how is your source going to work? What tax incentives can you get by routing something one way or another? You know, that’s one example of a company that I think did an excellent, excellent job in how you manage that.
Scott Luton (00:40:11):
So, let’s get – Greg, I’m gone get your take really quick ‘cause, you know, if it’s in your blindside, right, and the data, some of the data is in the blindside as well, the opportunities to drive savings, to drive gains and efficiencies. I mean, they’re invisible. But speak to what Jill just shared there, Greg.
Greg White (00:40:31):
I think that goes to including your entire organization into how you manage your data. You know, what it made me think of immediately is the now defunct double Irish Dutch sandwich. The way that a lot of technology companies structured their company to optimize their tax obligations by having an entity in Ireland, in the Netherlands, and in Bermuda when most of their operations are in the United and that help them optimize their tax obligations. And, I think, and, you know, they use incredible amounts of resources to do that, lawyers and accountants and whoever else. And I think it probably, you know, it definitely identifies that with that data, you can benefit not just your supply chain operations, but your finance and probably of legal operations as well. And, of course, your trading partners. And, anytime you can offer a benefit to your trading partners with more data, the better off that you are.
Greg White (00:41:30):
I think back to when we would demand certain things of our suppliers, [inaudible] who made press stone when I was in the auto parts industry, we would make demands of them on first pass fulfillment and all these things. And it was very hard for them, particularly when the mysterious plant shutdown from an explosion happened every year.
Scott Luton (00:41:50):
Wow.
Greg White (00:41:51):
But we identified that they could make an extra $2 million and we could make an extra million dollars if they adhered to that by using data. So, if you can motivate people with that data, it’s incredibly valuable.
Scott Luton (00:42:07):
So, motivating your suppliers and customers, but also, Jill, what I’m hearing when you both speak to is how you can build trust with sharing, you know, the right data and the transparency that comes with and defining the mutual finding of opportunities. But, Jill, respond to that or tell us – I know you you’ve got no shortage of stories and experiences. What else would you like to share?
Jill O’Dell (00:42:29):
Well, like you said, transparency is key, you know, as much information as you share. You know, we’re working with customers right now on what are they go, you know, it’s March. I’m amazed this year, probably more than any other at how much I’m already talking about 2023. And we’re sitting down with customers and talking about what are they going to do in 2023 so that we know where we want to go get space. We know what, and, you know, they’re being very transparent with us because I think probably more than ever because of the situation. And they understand that the more they tell us, like you said, the more we can help them. And, I think transparency is really important. Like I said, we sat down with one of our customers recently and we’re going through their three-to-five-year projections, even, so that, you know, UPS being an airline, if we need to go buy a plane for a certain, you know, we can look at that and understand that and understanding where our customers are looking to grow, what lanes should we look at. It helps us support them down the street.
Scott Luton (00:43:27):
Love that. Okay.
Greg White (00:43:29):
Probably talking about 2023 now because of the length of lead times right now.
Jill O’Dell (00:43:33):
That’s right. Exactly.
Greg White (00:43:34):
If we want to get it in 2023, they’re going to have to order it right.
Jill O’Dell (00:43:37):
That’s – well, you know, I say that all the time ‘cuase you guys, we were talking about this earlier. I have buildings and facilities responsibility. And we’re only working on 2023 leases because it’s taking so long to get things.
Scott Luton (00:43:49):
Wow. You know, our dear friend, Allison, Greg, that does some co-hosting with us, a couple years ago, she was Facebook – she had like this Facebook story building updates of her, I think it was a couch or a dining room table. And it was really interesting. I mean, she put a humor spin on it, but it was really interesting. The updates she would get, she’d kind of share. It was quite an adventure. Okay. So, Jill, I wish we had a couple more hours with you here today. There’s so much you bring to this table that we want to share, but I want to add a little bonus question. We’ve got a couple of resources that we’re going to share with folks here in just a minute and make sure folks also know how to connect with you after today. But you’re also passionate beyond traveling, food and music and data. You’re also really passionate about engaging our team members, right, wherever they are. So, have you seen – is there like a go-to employee engagement, technique, you’ve seen that’s really worked really well?
Jill O’Dell (00:44:46):
You know, I had a little bit of an advantage when the coronavirus hit because I have been managing virtual teams for quite a while and so, many, many years. And the thing – I think there’s two big things. One, you have to personally care, right? If your employees understand or your team understands how much you personally care about their situation, about their workload, about whatever, that, to me drives engagement. And as we’ve moved to a permanent, you know, a more permanent work-from-home or long-term work-from-home scenario or some sort of hybrid thereof, you know, spending that time, the thing you lose, in my opinion, in a work-from-home is that coffee-hour time, right? The water cooler time where you don’t sit down and talk about the kids or talk, you know, whatever, you know, the garage sale you went to last week or whatever.
Jill O’Dell (00:45:36):
And so, you know, spending that time, I meet with my team. I have a team all over the world. I meet with them every week, every two weeks, depending on the situation. And, I spend probably 15, 20 minutes just talking, just chitchatting, and how are you? How’s things going? How’s your family? Because it helps them feel more connected and helps me feel connected to them. And then it makes it easier to care, which makes it easier to engage. And then, there’s this hopefully domino effect that it is in a good place.
Scott Luton (00:46:06):
And it is fueled by what I’m picking up with you just in today’s conversation, some the pre-show conversations that authenticity comes from a very genuine place. And, I think that’s a big part of it. ‘Cause folks, you know, folks are smart. They can see through any, any, you know, shallow efforts. Greg, I know this resonates with you as a leader of a variety of organizations. What’s important for folks to take away here?
Greg White (00:46:32):
I think that the important thing is it has to be genuine. You can’t fake caring about your people and, you know, to that point, by the way, I mean, so I was the person – I was that annoying person even when I was CEO who walked in and went to everyone’s desk every single day just to say something, not for any other reason that I just wanted. I just felt compelled to speak to them and maybe was curious about what was going on or, you know, we may have even had an initiative or not, but, and I agree. I think we miss a lot of that. Not only do we miss a lot of human contact and a lot of engagement, but you can get an idea that could change the company from a discussion about, you know, the carwash this weekend or the garage sale that you went to. Those are epiphanal moments that only happen in person. And, I think that’s so very powerful, but the genuine nature of that is critical. So, if it’s not you as a person, it should be someone else in your organization as a delicate to, you know, to make sure that there is someone that is that empathic and engaged to work with the folks within your organization. And there’s no shame if it’s not you, but it has to be someone.
Jill O’Dell (00:47:47):
Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:47:48):
Such that’s a great point. Both of y’all. I really appreciate we took the time to throw this bonus question in. I am going to share –
Greg White (00:47:54):
We get points for it ‘cause I think –
Scott Luton (00:47:56):
We’re going to do street tacos. We all talk about, after street tacos, after the livestream.
Jill O’Dell (00:48:01):
I’m in.
Scott Luton (00:48:01):
I’m going to share a couple of – really quick, before I share a couple comments and then we’re going to get to some of these resources that Jill, you and your team offered up. Slack. Don’t laugh just yet. But Slack, when I first started using Slack, I’m like, man, this is like one more application, you know. But really to your point about those, the coffee, chat moments, the way that Slack has offered that electronically and not just burden people with more text or emails has just got a different vibe. That’s been really cool. And it’s really offered up some of those non-work moments. And, since the humor, you know, jokes and stuff that you can miss via even texts and emails. So, y’all, if you’re not using Slack, check that out. It’s a great, great tool. Okay.
Greg White (00:48:43):
You know, they’re trying to do that with the Metaverse.
Scott Luton (00:48:45):
Really?
Greg White (00:48:46):
They’re trying to introduce that to companies, to allow them to have those virtual coffee talks.
Scott Luton (00:48:51):
I love that.
Greg White (00:48:52):
Yeah. I’m a little bit creeped out by the Metaverse, frankly.
Jill O’Dell (00:48:55):
I actually attended my first Metaverse meeting two weeks ago.
Scott Luton (00:48:58):
Really?
Greg White (00:48:58):
What did you think?
Jill O’Dell (00:48:59):
It was very bizarre. Like, honestly, I felt like I was in a video game and I’m not a video game person. I don’t have my head around it. I’ll be honest. But, yeah, it was surreal. Let’s just say that.
Scott Luton (00:49:11):
So, I wonder –
Greg White (00:49:12):
Well, there you go.
Scott Luton (00:49:14):
I wonder –
Greg White (00:49:14):
So, they’re accomplishing what they were after, right?
Scott Luton (00:49:16):
Yeah. I wonder if we’re going to look back at this conversation 30 years from now, kind of like what we look at now there’s a today show clip from the early ‘90s and they were talking to the producers about what is email and they were kind of all just hadn’t figured it out. I wonder if folks are going to be laughing at us and what we think of the Metaverse here today. Who knows?
Greg White (00:49:37):
Well, in 30 years I won’t give a damn ‘cause I’ll either be dead or too old to care.
Scott Luton (00:49:42):
Okay. All right. Let’s share a couple quick comments. Let’s see here. So, Chedli, great to see you here today. You’ve been with us on previous livestreams. He says, “Trust, partnership, cooperation, coordination, mutual goals, buyer-supplier relationship, transparency, knowledge transfer, and information sharing, all provide a huge opportunity for any supply chain to be at the top level.” Man, I don’t think he missed too much there.
Greg White (00:50:08):
And all started with just three steps. I mean, that’s a lot.
Scott Luton (00:50:12):
Yes.
Jill O’Dell (00:50:12):
Yeah.
Greg White (00:50:12):
That’s a lot of value offered with just three steps.
Scott Luton (00:50:15):
Excellent point.
Greg White (00:50:16):
I think that’s an important thing. It’s easier than you think it is.
Jill O’Dell (00:50:21):
Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:50:21):
Yes. James Benton. “You also can’t fake caring about customers either.” Excellent point. “And caring about their supplier, or caring about suppliers.”
Greg White (00:50:30):
Or people.
Scott Luton (00:50:31):
Right.
Jill O’Dell (00:50:31):
Right.
Greg White (00:50:32):
We call them – we have all these names for them. We should just call them the people who supply us. But that’s a lot of words.
Scott Luton (00:50:37):
Yes.
Greg White (00:50:37):
Or the people that we sell to, right? Because it’s true. They’re all just people you have to care about all of them.
Scott Luton (00:50:42):
That’s right. Kelly says, “Or fake till to you make it.” That’s a phrase that a lot of folks –
Greg White (00:50:46):
[Inaudible] people do that and it can be effective as long as you’re not a sociopath.
Jill O’Dell (00:50:51):
And hi, Kelly. ‘Cause I know Kelly from way back.
Scott Luton (00:50:53):
Oh, do you? Josh says, “Slack was a game changer for us as well. It helped COVID navigation during work-from-home sections.” That’s a great point, Josh. And that’s exactly what I was thinking in my mind, too. Memory says, “Too old to care.” She’d like that comment from you earlier, Greg.
Scott Luton (00:51:10):
Okay. So, let’s get into, we like offering resources and your team here has got a couple different resources I want to share. I want to start with, we just missed, some of the folks may have attended, but if you didn’t, you just missed The 3rd Supply Chain Virtual Connect that was on March 9th. Ron Jordan of UPS joined us to talk about that a week or so ago. It sounded like ball accounts as a home run opportunity. It was also – love how UPS invested in that and made it free for the market to connect and learn, you know, and network and all that good stuff. Jill, I think you spoke at this event.
Jill O’Dell (00:51:45):
Yeah.
Scott Luton (00:51:45):
And the cool thing, and I want to get your favorite your experience from it. But, folks, you can use the link we’re about to drop in the chat to get access to all the replays of accounted at least 10, if not 15 sessions. So, if our team could drop that into chat, and then while they do that, Jill, what was your favorite aspect about The 3rd Supply Chain Virtual Connect?
Jill O’Dell (00:52:06):
So, you just mentioned about Slack. You know, this tool that we use for these connect is my favorite part because you can virtually walk in and out of rooms. So, if you’re – you can go into a room and you can kind of take a look and see who’s there and connect in with people that you need to, or want to, for whatever reason. And I like the mobility of the tool. It very much mirrors an actual conference and, for me, that was my favorite part. I can go in and meet with customers or talk to people just completely on the fly. Very natural.
Scott Luton (00:52:37):
I love that. Love that. And our ecosystem loves you, Jill. Memory says, “Awesome stuff as always. Please have Jill over again.” We certainly will.
Greg White (00:52:46):
I love the way she says have Jill over. Actually, maybe we will actually have you in person at some point.
Scott Luton (00:52:50):
Right. Agreed.
Greg White (00:52:52):
You could have a reason to get to Atlanta where UPS [inaudible].
Jill O’Dell (00:52:54):
I’m in Atlanta like every other week. So, that’s no problem.
Greg White (00:52:58):
And let me add to your motivation, Jill, one of the top five taquerias in America is in Kennesaw, Georgia, strangely, just north of Atlanta, so.
Jill O’Dell (00:53:10):
[Inaudible] Tuesday. Let’s go.
Greg White (00:53:11):
We’ll get you there.
Scott Luton (00:53:12):
Let’s do it. That’s it. All right. It’s got to happen. All right. So, really quick, we’re going to go back. We got one more resource to drop with folks and, again, y’all can check out the sessions from The 3rd Supply Chain Virtual Connect. Big thanks to UPS for investing and making that happen. Delilah missed the frontend. We had that, you know, the connectivity network had an issue. So, the three steps, Jill, and correct me if I’m wrong, how to find data, how to harmonize and synergize the data, and then how to use the clean data. Is that right, Jill?
Jill O’Dell (00:53:39):
That’s exactly right. Find it, harmonize it, use it.
Scott Luton (00:53:42):
Wonderful. Wonderful. All right. So, let’s then let’s shift gears over to – there’s an email sign up that the great team has over at UPS Supply Chain Solutions. I’m going to drop that in here as well so you can sign up for this. We’ve got a link for that. You get weekly market intel, events, you name it, ideas, best practices in these ever-changing times. Jill, that seems to be a great resource that UPS puts out as well.
Jill O’Dell (00:54:10):
It is. And the thing I like about this is it’s up to date. You know, the situation right now this week, as of Monday in Hong Kong, we’re already reporting on with the COVID shutdowns that are happening. And several, many, many, many manufacturers are down. So, being able to understand what does that mean to you is critical.
Scott Luton (00:54:27):
Wonderful. I got to share a couple before we let you go, before we make sure folks know how to connect with you, Jill. I’m going to find this comment here, “Without Slack,” I think this is Catherine. “Without Slack, how would I share cookie recipes with Amanda Luton?” I love that. And Barbara used to live in Kennesaw. Great town. We agree, Barbara.
Scott Luton (00:54:48):
Okay. So, Jill, really enjoyed – you know, Greg, I love Jill’s approach. I knew when we had our prep conversation, I went this is going to be a lot of fun. It’s going to be very practical. Folks are going to have lots of action or takeaways. And, Jill, you surpassed those expectations. Jill blew it out of the water. How can folks connect with Jill O’Dell?
Jill O’Dell (00:55:08):
LinkedIn. You know, LinkedIn has kind of changed our business world, hasn’t it? But, yeah, you guys have been great. I really appreciate letting me come, and, yeah, I’d love to hear from anybody on LinkedIn. That’s the best way to get ahold of me.
Scott Luton (00:55:18):
Wonderful. And we got those links in the show notes. Greg, before we let Jill go, did you have as much fun with Jill O’Dell as I did?
Greg White (00:55:26):
You know, what I love about her approach is it’s not an approach. It’s her. It’s very genuine. I really appreciate that, Jill. And, I have another question for you. Do business cards not seem redundant now that –
Jill O’Dell (00:55:38):
Oh, my gosh.
Greg White (00:55:38):
We have LinkedIn and I think that it’ll –
Jill O’Dell (00:55:39):
I haven’t ordered a business card, like, in the last five jobs. At one point, probably five or six years ago, I finally ordered a pack and I’ve just wrote on there, manager. Like, I didn’t put anything else ‘cause, A, my job changed a lot. And, B, I’m like, who even cares, you know?
Greg White (00:55:56):
Right. I feel silly. Now they have that little code on LinkedIn where people can just scan it and you’re connected connected.
Scott Luton (00:56:04):
Yeah. You know, I had this handy. This wasn’t planned, but this dot card blue thing is a single business card where folks can scan it with their phone and they get all the information and they ever want about you. And I felt so much better using that than printing more business cards, you know, to your point, Jill and Greg. But nevertheless, lots and lots of solutions. Jill, a pleasure to have you with us here today.
Jill O’Dell (00:56:28):
Thank you, guys. It was wonderful.
Greg White (00:56:28):
Thank you very much.
Scott Luton (00:56:29):
Really appreciate your time. Folks, make sure you connect with Jill O’Dell, plug in with the UPS team. Wonderful resources. I want to thank again, Jill O’Dell, Vice President of Strategy and Industrial Engineering at UPS Global Freight 40. Thank you, Jill.
Jill O’Dell (00:56:43):
Thanks, guys.
Scott Luton (00:56:44):
Well, Gregory, I’ll tell you, you never know what Murphy’s Law has in store. We navigated some treacherous waves on the frontend, but everything worked out. I still think, I’m going to do some research. I still think that March Madness kicked in. The whole country starts, you know, all the game zone, while still knocking at work. I could just see one of those cartoon moments where the, you know, the power stations kind of brrr, you know, and then someone flips a switch, brings something [inaudible].
Greg White (00:57:14):
Yeah. We will have to go back to the timestamp and figure out when that all started and if it coincided with game starting, but I bet it did.
Scott Luton (00:57:21):
Yes. I agree. Well, how about Jill?
Greg White (00:57:23):
Down here, in Hilton Head, it is the entire state of Indiana’s spring break and it feels like the entire state of Indiana is here. So, you can just imagine. There go all of the TV streaming in every, or, you know, or, you know, people can do it in now on the beach.
Scott Luton (00:57:46):
Right. [Inaudible] for days, for sure. Okay. But how about Jill O’Dell? I mean, this is, as Memory put it, a dynamo. Let’s have her back. What was your favorite thing Jill shared here today?
Greg White (00:58:00):
I can’t help but make this comparison, but, you know, Tandreia Bellamy is such a leader, right? Such a thoughtful person, big into mentorship and big into staff engagement. I see a lot of that in Jill. I’m sure she developed it herself. But, you know, we had the discussion about Tandreia and it just harkened back to that. And it makes me feel good that, you know, that sort of caring and transparency and obviously her gifts around industrial engineering and data and, of course, human leadership, all of those gifts continue at UPS with Jill being there. So, you know, I don’t want to talk too much about Tandreia, but she knows Jill knows that that’s high praise from our standpoint.
Scott Luton (00:58:45):
Well said.
Greg White (00:58:46):
And I think also that there was, you know, we don’t always get this. We got three steps, actionable steps in this session. And we got some really good answers on how to conduct those steps. So, this is almost a to-do episode for people. It’s not just philosophical. It is this is how you can accomplish it. So, this is one I would put in the archives and refer back to as if I’m, you know, leading a company as I’m trying to develop a data strategy. This is one I would definitely keep in the archives.
Scott Luton (00:59:20):
Excellent point there, Greg. And we got a lot about the why. You know, I love how she spoke a lot about the why and what you get. If you put in the time, you put in the elbow grease to become this data-driven supply chain super competitor, and what it means, what it means for you, your customers, your suppliers, your team. Those are important questions to ask. And we, to your point, she’s real. You know, Jill is the same person here as she was in the pre-show, prep show. So, we’re going to –
Greg White (00:59:48):
That’s so true.
Scott Luton (00:59:49 ):
We got a fan club. We got a new fan club. We lead a bunch of Atlanta area fan clubs. We got to start new one. But, folks, as Greg mentioned, make sure you catalog this episode, refer back. We covered a lot of ground here today with Greg and Jill O’Dell with UPS. I want to – be sure to check out the Supply Chain and Procurement Awards. Get those – let’s celebrate your team while calling attention to some big issues of our day. And, especially the incredible mission that the nonprofit Hope For Justice team is setting out to complete. But, folks, whatever you do, Scott Lutton and Greg White signing off for now, challenging you to do good, to give forward and to be the change that’s needed. And on that note, we’ll see you next timeright back here on supply chain Now. Thanks, everybody.
Intro/Outro (01:00:35):
Thanks for being a part of our Supply Chain Now Community. Check out all of our programming at supplychainnow.com and make sure you subscribe to Supply Chain Now anywhere you listen to podcasts, and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. See you next time on Supply Chain Now.
Jill O’Dell has over 25 years experience in the international transportation and logistics industry starting in the Air Export Forwarding, eventually leading to UPS via the Fritz acquisition in 2001. Jill has worked in all facets of the supply chain including air & ocean forwarding, contract logistics, foreign trade zone management (FTZ), Customs brokerage, small package, and vendor management. She has managed direct operations as well as engineering, solutions and special project groups in many areas. Most recently, Jill was instrumental in deploying a global technology portfolio into our brokerage operations. Her path has taken her around the world working with customers and on projects in Asia, Latin America, Canada, Europe and the Middle East. Jill holds a Business degree from the University of Illinois, and resides in Louisville, KY. Connect with Jill on LinkedIn.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 Cisco, Microsoft, 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 University, O’Reilly Media, LinkedIn Learning, and Pluralsight. Mr. Jackson retired from the U.S. Navy in 1994, earning specialties in Space Systems Engineering, Carrier 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.
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.
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’.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.