2 Babes Talk Supply Chain

We’re back with Episode 2 of our “Lessons Learned from Crises” mini-series, in partnership with Tealbook. In last week’s episode ‘Bad Data,’ we talked to Tealbook CEO Stephany Lapierre about the impact of poor supplier data, some of the biggest lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis and exactly how Tealbook can help to revolutionize your data systems. Today in Episode 2, Stay Ready, I‘m joined by Tealbook’s VP of Strategy Matt Palackdharry to talk about the importance of good data, the value to be found in transparency and collaboration and why, despite only being founded in 2014, IDC recently ranked Tealbook as the #4 procurement platform tool currently in use today. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.05] Matt’s background, and how his experiences led him to Tealbook. “The number 1 reason that these technology platforms were failing was never the software or the integrations themselves – it’s actually the data going in that compromises everything downstream.”      [04.03] Exactly what good data is, and why

This week’s episode of our Women in Supply Chain series features Jenti Vandertuig. Born in India, Jenti got her degree at Madras University in Chennai, one of the oldest and most well-respected universities in India, before moving to the USA and pursuing a career in government. After more than 25 years spent transforming public sector procurement through designing and delivering pioneering new solutions, it was time for a change. Now she’s a trailblazer showing the sports and entertainment industry how important supply chain is to their organizations. Today Jenti will be sharing her fascinating life story with us, from scared but ambitious girl growing up in India, to the woman who decided to take control of her own destiny. She’ll be talking about her successful career in government and what made her switch industries; overcoming challenges, and all about how she found her voice along the way. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [07.54] Jenti’s background growing up in India, and the early experiences that began to

Our new mini-series, in partnership with Tealbook, is called “Lessons Learned from Crisis” – it’s a timely look at how individual businesses, and our industry as a whole, need to learn, adapt and use our findings to inform our shared future. Over the next four episodes, we’ll be taking a closer look at the importance of data, managing risk, technological advancements, what COVID-19 has taught us about weathering the storm – and how Tealbook can support your business, through good times and bad. Today in Episode 1, Bad Data, I‘m joined by Tealbook CEO Stephany Lapierre to talk about the potentially devastating impact of poor supplier data, some of the biggest lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis and exactly how Tealbook can help to revolutionize your data systems. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.30] Stephanie’s thoughts on many companies’ cynical approach to data management, and how it highlights the need for a simple, effective and comprehensive solution to harnessing, unifying and synchronising data. “I

Tax – for many of us, it can be a word that strikes fear into the heart of our businesses! Global tax is a complex area of expertise, that often isn’t linked as closely as it should be to operations and decision-making. Enter Global Tax Focus. Their goal is to help you see the global landscape of an enterprise by focusing on the intersection of operations and tax. They partner with an international team of deep technical business and tax specialists, bringing the latest in global thought leadership, to help you to identify where business and tax efficiencies can be achieved, by focusing on cross-border transactions, business structure, and reducing both tax and operating costs. Today I’m joined by Jim Dawson of Global Tax Focus to talk more about the implications of tax on many different areas of business, why being pro-active with tax is so beneficial, and why tax and supply chain professionals need to collaborate to ensure their voices are heard. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [9.22] Jim’s background in intern

I’m so sad to say that this is the final episode in our ‘You Won’t Believe What We’ve Seen’ mini-series, in partnership with SQA services. But over the course of these four episodes we’ve had a blast! We’ve chatted to some inspirational people, learned a lot and heard some amazing stories – we really can't believe what they’ve seen! I hope you’ve enjoyed the series just as much as I have and don’t forget, you can still catch up on any episodes you might’ve missed HERE. In last week’s episode ‘High Stakes’, we were joined by father and son team Jim and Mike McKay to tackle the ever-changing landscape of technology. We talked about the latest technological advances in the industry and really did a deep dive into the importance of quality, right from the outset, and how it’s achieved through honesty, communication, collaboration and partnership. And today, last but definitely not least, we’re headed to the multi-billion-dollar world of beauty. Mike McKay is joining us one last time alongside the incredible Ashle

Development of the Omnae Platform began fairly recently, in 2016, with a small team and a big vision. Harnessing over 30 years of deep industry experience, Omnae’s mission was to build a network and service that was bigger than just manufacturing; to create a technology that was both industry and country agnostic, with the goal of connecting every facet of global production. Omnae’s founders saw the potential – and necessity – for a global supply web, and knew they had the know-how to build it. And it’s safe to say Omnae has gone from strength to strength, proving that their mission, and unique approach, is spot on. Today I’m joined by CEO Dan Lionello to talk more about the global supply web, the need for improved transparency, resilience and communication in supply chain and how Omnae’s platform has the potential to transform supply chain for everyone.

We’re back with Episode 3 of our ‘You Won’t Believe What We’ve Seen’ mini-series, in partnership with SQA services, and I’m sure you’re enjoying it just as much as I am. In last week’s episode ‘Saving Lives’, we were joined by SQA founder and President Mike McKay, as well as the President & CEO of Civica Rx Martin VanTrieste, to talk about supply chain and the importance of quality in the life sciences industry. We explored the dark world of counterfeit drugs and shadow factories, the impact of COVID-19, drug shortages and ultimately the importance of supply chain in saving lives. Don't forget to check it out if you missed it! Today, we’re taking on the complex world of technology and Mike McKay is joined by his Father, Chairman of SQA, Jim McKay. They’re going to be exploring some of the latest technological advances in the industry and explaining how quality is so closely linked to honesty, communication, collaboration and partnership. And how, if you don’t have a focus on quality from the beginning, th

  Founder and CEO of Tive, Krenar Komoni, has what can only be described as an impressive career, with more than 10 years spent in the wireless industry gaining expertise in chip design and business development. He worked with BitWave Semiconductor, where he developed the world’s first 2G+3G+LTE radio in a single chip, Eta Devices – an MIT-based start-up developing the world’s most efficient cellular base stations – and consulted for Fortune 500 companies launching new wireless products. But it was a simple conversation with his father in law, who was complaining of the challenges of supply chain, that sparked Krenar’s entrepreneurial spirit, helped him identify a vital niche, and go on to establish Tive. Designed to help companies take the surprises out of their supply chains through true end-to-end visibility, their innovative solutions are taking the market by storm. Today, we’re talking about the importance of understanding how the modern supply chain works and providing rounded solutions, accuracy and da

I hope you’re enjoying our fascinating ‘You Won’t Believe What We’ve Seen’ mini-series, in partnership with SQA services. In last week’s episode ‘Mission Control’ (insert link), we talked to SQA founder and President Mike McKay, and industry professional and advisor to SQA Jeff Luckey, and delved into the incredible world of aircraft and aerospace. And we have an equally amazing podcast for you today, with episode 2 ‘Saving Lives,’ as we dive into the life sciences. Mike McKay joins us once again, alongside President & CEO of Civica Rx Martin Van Trieste, one of Modern Healthcare’s ‘100 Most Influential People in Healthcare’ and the #2 leader on The Medicine Maker’s ‘Power List of Industry Influencers.’ They’re going to be exploring the dark world of counterfeit drugs and shadow factories, sharing their passions and experiences after many years at the top of their industry, and reinforcing that all-important topic of Quality. You don’t want to miss it! IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [00.58] Introducing Mike

Back in 2001, Optessa Founder Srinivas (Vasu) Netrakanti identified an important but poorly served niche: to provide high quality planning and scheduling solutions that truly addressed industry needs. And as a management graduate and highly successful serial entrepreneur, he had the knowledge, experience and courage to deliver it. Vasu partnered with Founder and CEO Ashok Erramilli, who brought his own incredible skills – including an Electrical Engineering Ph.D. from Yale, years of experience as a consultant to engineering and networking corporations, and from his role as Research Manager at Bellcore (now Telcordia) – to the mix. The ambitious and highly skilled duo built Optessa with the vision of helping complex manufacturers optimize their production plans and schedules, utilizing intelligent solutions. Their Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) software creates complete, optimal, even quality solutions, and their software can model any manufacturing requirement, with speedy deployment. In today’s episo

I’m incredibly excited to bring you a brand new 4-part series, in partnership with SQA Services. SQA Services has over 25 years’ experience and is now widely recognized as a flexible global resource and a proven solution provider for today’s complex supply environments. I’ve gotten to know them over the past few months and their industry knowledge, passion – and amazing stories – demanded their own platform. Inspired by their experiences and anecdotes, I’m proud to introduce the aptly named ‘You Won’t Believe What We’ve Seen’ mini-series. Over the next 4 episodes, we’ll be bringing you stories that showcase the importance of quality in supply chain and the fascinating places it’s taken SQA. So, grab a coffee and find a quiet spot to enjoy Episode 1, ‘Mission Control.’ Featuring SQA founder and President Mike McKay, and industry professional and advisor to SQA Jeff Luckey, this episode takes us into the incredible world of aircraft and aerospace. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [01.26] Introducing Mike McKay. [02.

This week's episode of Women in Supply Chain Series features Martha Lumatete.  Inspired by both her grandmother, who began her own construction supply business, and her father, an accomplished lawyer in Kenya, Martha Lumatete always had her sights set on success. In today’s episode, she discusses her incredible journey so far, from those initial aspirations to the woman she is today. After graduating law school, she took a role at Pepsi working in data and analysis and became fascinated with the supply chain process – how a product works its way through manufacture and distribution, and the consumer behavior behind it. Driven by her natural curiosity, bravery and thirst for knowledge, Martha worked in a number of different industries and areas, gathering new skills and experiences along the way. Currently working for Southwest Airlines in software acquisition, Martha brings her own unique blend of integrity, passion and positivity to the table, reminding us that good business is not just about making good dea

Like his Father and Grandfather before him, Founder and President of Logistics Titans Wes Streubing has supply chain in his blood. And he’s on a mission to bring that passion, history and industry knowledge together to bring a new and innovative approach to supply chain. As the largest specialized and asset-based carrier in the US, Logistics Titans aim is to empower their clients with new possibilities through their commitment to seeking out the latest technologies, providing data-driven insights and bringing a customized, holistic approach to every client. In this episode, Wes discusses the challenges we’re currently facing in supply chain and how the industry needs to continue to be creative and agile in its approach. And innovative industry leaders who continue to learn and grow are a vital part of this, especially in unprecedented times as we continue to face the impact of Covid 19. But, as Wes looks to the future, he’s sure that Covid 19 is 'a short-term discomfort, not a long-term problem' and that the

Ram is the founder of SKUteam, a company that provides globalized supply chain with localized supervision. They help companies working in the apparel, furnishing and fashion accessories industries take control of their supply chain and cut out unnecessary middlemen. Ram explains that when it comes to production, 70% of processes happen in a factory. But brands have no idea what happens in the factories: they can’t tell if workers are paid fair wages, if working conditions are at the right standard or whether the product is manufactured according to the specific requirements. SKUteam help brands track every section of the supply chain works by offering a whole range of services including accounting and finance, inspections, audits and inventory planning. With trends such as globalization and events such as Covid-19, brands want to move away from China and manufacture products elsewhere - but they aren’t sure where to go next. SKUteam helps brands find the appropriate factories and sample inventory. They then m

Ranna is a supply chain professional who works for Resilinc, a supply chain risk management company that offers data analytics and insights on supplier performance. With their patented technology, Resilinc can produce simulations of potential catastrophes and help customers and suppliers mitigate risk.  What is supply chain mapping? Ranna explains that supply chain mapping is about knowing who your tier 1, tier 2 and tier 3 suppliers are. Mapping is about knowing the full flow of your supply chain and therefore being able to successfully identify any points of failure. Large scale events such as Covid and have proved the importance of knowing how your entire supply chain works and being proactive rather than reactive. Ranna has worked in supply chain for 20 years, and says the industry has come very far. Thanks to advances in technology, companies can use data to prepare and handle risk efficiently. With more natural disasters happening every year, this is more relevant than ever. She also explains that the f

Melody is a supply chain professional who works for Alloy, a platform that offers in-depth data analytics for consumer good companies. For our Women in Supply chain spotlight for July, sponsored by Alloy,  Melody tells us what her journey in supply chain has been like, what keeps her motivated and her plans for the future.  Supply chain is constantly changing and advancing - yet many companies are sticking to manual processes. Although they recognise and understand the need for analytics, companies still use spreadsheets and adopting technology at a very slow pace. As Melody says, it’s almost like companies don’t believe the right tools are out there and that manual is more efficient. As someone who works in commercial software, Melody knows there is still a lot of work to do.  What does success mean to Melody? To her, it means being in control of her destiny and being in a position to help others. She is driven by being surrounded by intellectuals who are eager to solve problems by tinkering and continuously

Robert and Lee are the founders of Mercado, a platform that aims to bring together every section of the supply chain from sourcing, to legal, to sales and much more. Supply chain still needs to be properly disrupted, and Mercado believes a marketplace is the key forward.  Why is supply chain not disrupted yet? Rob explains that the complexity of supply chain is daunting and the combination of various processes makes it difficult to innovate as a whole. Many companies that claim to resolve an issue using tech only solve one specific piece of the puzzle. With Mercado, Rob and Lee want to fix the problem by transferring the entire “puzzle” online. Rob believes that the best place to fix an issue is at the beginning: the purchase order. The first mile is what needs digitizing first - and it’s often the most inefficient part of the process. Imagine if every time you ordered a burger at McDonald’s the workers had to go back and forth between you and the kitchen to get your order right? This is what is currently hap

Rob is Head of Ethics at Airbnb and author of the book “Intentional Integrity”. His role as head of an ethics team is to implement a code of conduct that encourages integrity, is aligned with brand values and help employees navigate the complex world of ethical dilemmas. Rob explains that a company with integrity must start with the leadership: the CEO needs to say upfront what the brand does and doesn’t do. The leader must also create their own code of ethics and involve employees in the process: what do they think is important? How can we make our values as clear as possible? What are the main ethical dilemmas? A company that takes ethics seriously is more likely to attract ethical business and therefore have ethical stakeholders. Ethics is at the core of how Airbnb operates. Every team has their own Ethics advisor; this is someone on the team that takes part in a one-day ethics training every year and is the person employees can turn to in order to answer complex ethical questions. Airbnb also publishes et

Jason is the CEO of MacGregor Partners, a supply chain solutions provider that uses IT and software to help companies work faster, smarter and more efficiently. What does their process look like? They ask a lot of questions, build a bespoke solution and then train every stakeholder that’s part of the operation. They live and breathe digital and are revolutionizing the relationship between drivers, paper and staff. According to Jason, the top three challenges in supply chain are data, systems and analytics. As a supply chain solutions company, MacGregor Partners knows how hard it actually is to implement data correctly, and how to build systems that don’t end up siloed. For this reason, they focus on Warehouse Management System (WMS) combined with analytics and visibility. MacGregor Partners’ typical clients are companies that are interested in technology and are looking for ways to implement software to optimize their distribution center. At MacGregor Partners, Jason and his team are “dethinkers”: they don’t

Today Sarah chats with Scott and Greg from Supply Chain Now about the last in their super trend series: Start up Mentality. The Covid crisis has brought a pivotal moment on Earth for everyone, and therefore an opportunity to accelerate important trends. As Greg says, necessity is the mother of innovation; with the crisis, supply chain is on everyone’s mind and companies are now serious about changing. As Scott declares, now is the time to seize the moment. Organizations are now more willing to challenge norms and be disruptive. As Scott and Greg explain, companies need to embrace the startup spirit: taking action, being disruptive (instead of disrupted) and giving authority to the people on the front line. The old way of working is slowly dying out, and those that resist change will die out with it.  Greg believes that what’s most important is being humble enough to learn something new every day and being patient. Scott says that it’s important to remember that passion is not enough, that what entrepreneurs r