The Future of Supply Chain - podcast cover

The Future of Supply Chain

The Future of Supply Chain podcast is a show hosted by Thought Leader and Evangelist Richard Howells, and supply chain experts Sin To and Nicole Smythe. Guests discuss hot topics, best practices, and the latest innovations to deliver a risk-resilient and sustainable supply chain.
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Episodes

Episode 115: Supply Chain Orchestration and Sustainability with Loftware President & CEO, Jim Bureau

This week we discuss the evolving future of supply chains with Loftware’s Jim Bureau. Topics include the rise of cloud platforms, the critical role of data and AI, supply chain collaboration challenges, combating counterfeiting with digital product passports, and ensuring sustainability and ethical compliance. Learn how digital twins and real-time networks are revolutionizing supply chain visibility and trust. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain

Jun 25, 202525 minEp. 115

Episode 114: How Telecom trends are fueling the industrial economy with SAP’s Sandeep Chowdhury

This week we discuss telecom industry trends with SAP’s Sandeep Chowdhury, covering 5G adoption, AI-powered network optimization, the promise of 6G, and sustainability challenges. Learn how telecom supply chains are evolving with digital transformation, circular economy practices, and integrated ecosystems to meet future connectivity and environmental demands. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

Jun 18, 20250Ep. 114

Episode 113: The Supply Chain Logistics Maturity Model with Adrian Gonzalez and Doug DeLuca

This week we discuss the Supply Chain Logistics Maturity Model with experts Adrian Gonzalez and Doug DeLuca. They break down the four maturity levels helping supply chain leaders understand where they stand and how to advance. Plus, insights on future trends like AI and robotics that will transform logistics management in the years ahead. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain

Jun 11, 202533 minEp. 113

Episode 112: Smarter, Greener, Faster: AI-Driven Supply Chain Trends in Retail for 2025 with SAP’s Amanda Spencer

This episode delves into the dynamic future of retail, spotlighting the pivotal role of AI in reshaping supply chains and customer interactions by 2025. Experts discuss how retailers are harnessing AI to deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences, leveraging clean data to anticipate consumer needs and optimize inventory. The conversation explores the increasing importance of sustainability, with brands adopting eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains to meet conscious consumer ...

Jun 04, 202520 minEp. 112

DE EP 07: GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig (Teil 2)

GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser 2. Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Na...

May 29, 202532 minEp. 7

Episode 111: How to Orchestrate your Supply Chain in a Volatile Market with SAP’s Jeb Insley

This week we discuss how to orchestrate supply chains in volatile markets with SAP’s Jeb Insley. He shares insights on navigating disruptions from pandemics to geopolitical risks, the rise of supply chain leadership, balancing cost and resilience, and the critical role of connected digital systems and AI-driven orchestration in enabling agile, end-to-end supply chain networks. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

May 28, 202526 minEp. 111

Episode 110: The Future of Supply Chain for Oil and Gas Companies with SAP’s Stephane Lauzon

This week we discuss the future for oil, gas, and energy companies with Stephane Lauzon from SAP. We dig deeper in topics of logistics in remote locations, asset maintenance, predictive planning, and how companies are embracing biofuels, hydrogen, and carbon capture to drive sustainability. Discover how technology and innovation are transforming supply chains to meet the energy demands of tomorrow. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

May 21, 202528 minEp. 110

DE EP 06: GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig

GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Nase ...

May 15, 202532 minEp. 6

Episode 109: Will a reshoring surge unlock new manufacturing hubs with BDO USA’s Ashley Hetrick

This week we discuss how reshoring is reshaping the U.S. manufacturing landscape amid rising tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Our guest, Ashley Hetrick from BDO USA, shares insights from a recent CFO survey highlighting cost, resiliency, and technology as key drivers. We explore emerging manufacturing hubs in Texas, Nevada, and Washington, and industries leading the reshoring trend. Come join us as we discuss the future of supply chain!

May 14, 202526 minEp. 109

Episode 108: Transforming Tariff Challenges into Opportunities Through Better Planning with SAP’s Jay Foster and Lori Harner

Join us this week, as we discuss how geopolitical instability and tariffs are reshaping global supply chains. Lori Harner and Jay Foster from SAP share how agile, integrated business planning and collaborative supplier networks enable companies to navigate complex regulations and cost pressures. Discover how AI and scenario planning empower smarter decisions, turning tariff challenges into strategic opportunities for resilience and growth in today’s volatile environment

May 07, 202518 minEp. 108

Episode 107: Rightshoring and Regionalizing your Supply Chain Operations with Ascential Technologies' Todd Bauman

In this week’s episode we dive into right-shoring, reshoring and regionalizing manufacturing with Ascential’s Todd Bauman. We discuss how holistic decision-making Is essential for right shoring and regionalization, and why automation and resilience are key to addressing labor and geopolitical challenges. We also delve into why regional supply chains help hedge against disruption and the importance of supplier collaboration and communication strategies. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Su...

Apr 30, 202524 minEp. 107

Episode 106: All Things Transportation with Westernacher's Matt Paulaitis

In this week’s episode we discuss the trends, challenges and opportunities in the area of transportation management with Westernacher’s Matt Paulaitis. Matt discusses challenges such as organizational silos, tariff impacts, and the need for unified data, and the role of predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI integration to optimize operations and enhance real-time decision-making. Matt also explained why companies are investing Companies are investing in digital supply chain systems and ...

Apr 23, 202526 minEp. 106

Episode 105: B2B Marketing and Manufacturing with Market Veep's Jennelle McGrath

In this week's episode, we're joined by Market Veep's Janelle McGrath to discuss the intertwined worlds of supply chain, marketing, and sales. We explore how aligning these departments can boost efficiency and customer satisfaction, and dive into strategies for maximizing visibility of new products and communicating sustainable practices effectively. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Apr 16, 202525 minEp. 105

Episode 104: Supply Chain Orchestration with SAP’s David Vallejo

In this week's episode we welcome back SAP’s David Vallejo. Together we dive into the evolving landscape of supply chain management, discussing how businesses are shifting from siloed operations to integrated orchestration, explore the transformative role of AI in enabling real-time decision-making, boosting resilience, and fostering sustainability. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Apr 09, 202533 minEp. 104

Episode 103: 2025 Trends for the CPG Industry with SAP's Maria Morais

The consumer goods industry is undergoing a seismic shift driven by AI and digital technologies. Joined by our own Maria Morais, we unpack key trends for 2025, including subscription-based models powered by AI customization, experience-driven commerce blending digital and physical retail, dynamic pricing enabled by real-time analytics, and hyper-personalization. Also, sustainability takes center stage as brands embrace ethical supply chains and transparency. Come join us as we discuss the Future...

Apr 02, 202528 minEp. 103

Episode 102: Sweet Challenges: Navigating the Chocolate Crisis in Global Supply Chains with Efficio's Barbara Guignard

Joined by Efficio’s Barbara Guignard, we dive into the causes behind the current cocoa crisis, including climate challenges and underinvestment in cocoa plants. Discover how chocolate manufacturers are responding through recipe alterations, sustainability initiatives, and supply chain innovations, whilst tapping into emerging technologies and potential alternatives that may shape the future of chocolate production and consumption. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Mar 26, 20250Ep. 102

Episode 101: Navigating the Digital Seas: The Future of Ocean Transportation with Descartes’ Eric Geerts and SAP’s Mark Averskog

With insights from SAP’s Mark Averskog and Descartes’ Eric Geerts, together, we dive into the world of ocean transportation, highlighting the importance of sea freight in global trade, current challenges faced by shippers and carriers, and the ongoing digital transformation of the industry. Learn about the push for greater visibility, process automation, and sustainability in maritime logistics, and how these advancements are set to revolutionize supply chain management in the coming years. Come...

Mar 19, 202527 minEp. 101

Episode 100: AI & Manufacturing: Smart Technologies for a New Era of Industry with SAP’s Dominik Metzger

Hannover Messe is just around the corner, and who better to discuss the future of supply chains with than Dominik Metzger, President & Chief Product Officer Supply Chain Management. In this episode, we explore how AI can help to build resilient supply chains, the crucial role of data, and how the interplay between structured and unstructured data enables faster decision-making. We also take a closer look at the impact of SAP Business Suite and Business Data Cloud on supply chain management a...

Mar 12, 202531 minEp. 100

Episode 99: Why Network Aware Planning Defeats Traditional Planning with Westernacher's Alexis Lozada

Joined by Westernacher’s Alexis Lozada, we dive into the world of network aware planning, a revolutionary approach to supply chain management that focuses on understanding the interconnectedness of various networks within the supply chain. Discover how this strategy helps businesses make informed decisions, prepare for disruptions, and optimize inventory allocation. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Mar 05, 202525 minEp. 99

Episode 98: The Manufacturing Industry Trends 2025 with SAP’s Judy Cubiss

Navigating manufacturing's future: Supply chains face disruption, talent pools shrink, and sustainability demands rise. Discover how AI, cloud tech, and data-driven strategies offer solutions. Hear Judy Cubiss from SAP share insights on building resilient, efficient, and future-proof industrial operations. Companies are rethinking supply chains for resilience and embracing collaboration platforms. AI offers potential for automation and insights but requires robust data management and infrastruct...

Feb 26, 202523 minEp. 98

Episode 97: Supply Chains... Are They Still Vulnerable? with McKinsey's Kevin Goering

This week, we’re joined by McKinsey & Company’s Kevin Goering to dive into the insights from their fifth annual Global Supply Chain Leader Survey, revealing how executives are responding to persistent disruptions and shifting priorities. Together, we dive into the delicate balance between cost management and risk mitigation, the challenges of digital adoption, and the growing focus on nearshoring and dual sourcing, discovering why some companies may be taking their eye off the ball when it c...

Feb 19, 202532 minEp. 97

Episode 96: Navigating the Packaging Puzzle: Cost, Sustainability, and Innovation in a Disrupted Supply Chain with ProcureAbility’s Joe Adamski

As inflation, energy volatility, and supply chain bottlenecks strain the packaging industry, companies grapple with trade-offs between cost reduction and durability. This week, ProcureAbility’s Joe Adamski joins us to dive into strategies like lightweighting materials, on-site renewable energy, and rethinking the possibilities with transportation logistics. Together, we examine the viability of "net zero" claims, greenwashing risks, and innovations like sensor-driven energy optimization. Come jo...

Feb 12, 202527 minEp. 96

Episode 95: Cyber Fortress: Securing the Digital Lifelines of Global Supply Chains with SAP’s Niall Brennan

This week, Niall Brennan - former FBI agent turned SAP cybersecurity strategist - details the critical role of securing supply chains amid rising cyber threats. With 22 years of FBI experience in counterterrorism, cybercrime, and intelligence, Brennan now bridges public-private partnerships to safeguard SAP’s digital ecosystem. He discusses threat intelligence sharing, incident response, regulatory compliance, and anticipatory resilience strategies, highlighting the need for "personality-resista...

Feb 05, 202524 minEp. 95

Episode 94: The Outlook for Logistics for 2025 and Beyond with Adelante SCM’s Adrian Gonzalez

This week, we’re joined by Adelante SCM’s Adrian Gonzalez to talk all things logistics – no pun intended. With logistics moving into the forefront of companies’ digital transformation, we dove into the importance of valuing and utilizing the broader supplier network, seizing the momentum of the technology transformation and acceleration, and sharpening your visibility beyond your four walls. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Jan 30, 202530 minEp. 94

Episode 93: Smart Manufacturing in 2025 and Beyond with Deloitte’s Tim Gaus

This week, Deloitte's Tim Gaus joins the series to explors the future of manufacturing, discussing key challenges manufacturers are set to face in 2025, including workforce management, agility in production, and technology modernization. Together, we highlight the importance of balancing human expertise with automation, the impact of generative AI on manufacturing processes, and the need for a harmonized digital core to optimize supply chain management and manufacturing efficiency. Come join us ...

Jan 22, 202524 minEp. 93

Episode 92: New Year, New Supply Chain Trends and Predictions with LMA Consulting Group’s Lisa Anderson

As many trends and predictions for this new year, from regionalized supply chains to AI-powered technologies to sustainability initiatives taking the forefront, executives are looking for ways to radicalize their business processes. This week, Lisa Anderson joins us to dive into these new strategies and initiatives that will continue to drive change in businesses as we enter 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Jan 15, 202526 minEp. 92

Episode 91: 2025 Predictions with Sarah Barnes-Humphrey

You know the saying… new year, new predictions? That’s right – to kick off 2025, Sarah Barnes-Humphrey joins us to discuss the patterns, trends, and predictions we see driving digital supply chain transformation this upcoming year, like increased focus on cybersecurity, automation and humans’ new bond, and making supply chain fun again. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Jan 08, 202529 minEp. 91

DE EP 5: Cloud, IT und der Standortwechsel in der Produktion (German Version)

Produktionsstätten verlagern? Klingt wie ein Umzug mit zu vielen Kartons – nur komplexer, global und riskanter. In dieser Folge spreche ich mit meinen beiden Kollegen Ralf Lehmann und Matthias Deindl darüber wie den Überblick über Lieferketten, Daten und Prozesse bei einer Standortverlagerung behält, warum Cloud-ERP euer digitales Umzugsunternehmen sein kann und wie ihr Produktions-Pannen vermeidet. Damit der Neustart kein Totalschaden wird! Und natürlich geht es auch um die SAP S.Factory.

Dec 19, 202432 minEp. 5

Episode 90: Recapping the Best Moments of 2024 with Richard Howells, Sin To, and Nicole Smythe

What a year it has been! On this special episode, Richard, Sin, and Nicole look back on a memorable 2024, recapping the top trends, such as risk resiliency, sustainability, visibility and transparency, AI, and next generation, shared with our incredible guests, and look forward to the future, predicting what is to come in 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Dec 18, 202435 minEp. 90

DE Episode 4 - Datenvisualisierung in der Lieferkette (German Version)

Warum sind Datenvisualisierungen ein Gamechanger für Lieferketten? In dieser Episode diskutieren wir mit Jens Wille (Ubilabs) und Stefan Wiech (bloog), wie Unternehmen durch smarte Visualisierungstechniken nicht nur ihre Lieferketten optimieren, sondern auch Risiken gezielt minimieren können. Erfahrt, warum die richtige Darstellung von Daten mehr ist als ein nettes Extra – sie ist der Schlüssel zu effizienteren Prozessen und strategischen Entscheidungen. Lass dich inspirieren und erfahre, wie sm...

Dec 12, 202433 minEp. 4
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