Supply Chain Now – Key Points from Livestream

Introduction

• Hosts: Scott Luton and Greg White
• Guest: DC Manns Safregola, Anaplan Consultant with Akili Incorporated
• Topics: Transformation, Change, Improving Supply Chain IQ
• Programming Note: Check out Supply Chain Now podcast for more content

DC Manns' Background

• Born in Detroit, moved to Atlanta at age 8
• Attended University of Georgia (UGA) and Kennesaw State
• Background in digital and experiential marketing, PR for sports marketing
• Transitioned to supply chain after consulting and further education
• Experience in logistics sales, data analytics, process improvement
• Multilingual and extensive traveler, enhancing communication skills

Akili Incorporated

• Mission: Help clients improve business performance through planning and change management
• Services: Process improvement, Anaplan implementation, data integration
• Focus: Connected planning in supply chain aligning finance, sales, marketing
• Process: Value stream mapping, identifying pain points, cleansing data

Key Concepts

Value Stream Mapping and Process Improvement

• Identify non-value-add activities and redundancy
• Ensure processes are mapped out clearly
• Important for improving efficiency and understanding workflows

Digital Transformation

• Shift from Excel spreadsheets to tools like Anaplan
• Scenario planning and quick actionable insights key
• Data has to be clean and uniform across the organization

Challenges in Digital Transformation

• Data Issues: Inconsistent metadata, lack of data warehouses/ERPs
• People Issues: Need for dedicated resources and managing day-to-day jobs during implementation
• Importance of change management and user training

Change Management and Communication

• People need to understand and adopt new systems
• Proper communication plans crucial for smooth transitions
• User adoption often undermined by poor training or inadequate communication

Talent and Diversity in Supply Chain

Recruiting and Inclusion

• Importance of looking beyond traditional engineering backgrounds for supply chain roles
• Showing supply chain as a rewarding and challenging field to attract talent
• Representation matters; diverse models encourage entry into the field

Promoting Diversity

• Support systems and networks within companies to help diverse employees thrive
• Intentional hiring and mentorship necessary for meaningful inclusion
• Continuing support and development opportunities crucial

Addressing the Gender Gap

• Encouraging women to pursue higher positions despite stereotypes
• Creating supportive environments for women in supply chain
• Mentorship and role models play a significant role in navigating career paths

Comments and Engagement

• Active audience engagement with comments on data, diversity, and digital transformation
• Specific shout-outs and contributions from listeners enhancing the discussion

Noteworthy Events

Upcoming Events and Recognitions

• National Supply Chain Day discussion with Point A
• Supply Chain Trivia Night on May 13
• Webinar: Gartner Supply Chain Top 25 with Mike Griswold

Closing Thoughts

• Emphasizing the importance of ongoing conversation in supply chain industry
• Encouraging diverse perspectives and addressing challenges head-on
• Engaging the community in meaningful discourse for improvement