Jared Paget on Supply Chain Evolution: How Data, Education, and Strategy Shape the Future of Logistics

Supply Chain Evolution and Insights

In this episode, I sit down with operations executive Jared Paget to explore the rapidly changing world of logistics and supply chain management. We reflect on the industry’s growth, its increasing sophistication, and the vital role of data in shaping better decisions. Jared brings global experience and practical examples that highlight the challenges and opportunities facing supply chain leaders today.

Lessons From the Past and Growth of the Discipline

Jared and I discussed the parallels between today’s logistics landscape and the dot-com era of the 1990s. I shared my experiences during the rapid rise and fall of many dot-com companies, while Jared reflected on how far supply chain education has come since then. Specialized programs that did not exist when he started are now providing students with strong foundations in supply chain and logistics, helping them enter the field prepared for modern demands.

Data, Education, and Integration

We explored the growing importance of embedding supply chain and logistics into college curricula, especially with a strong emphasis on data science. Jared compared data analysis to piloting an airplane, explaining that dashboards and metrics are critical tools for navigating complexity. Yet, we both agreed that while data provides insight, it is human judgment that ensures the best decisions are made.

Data Analysis in Action

Jared and I shared stories from our careers where data revealed crucial insights. I spoke about how analytics exposed hidden inefficiencies in nonprofits and influencer marketing, while Jared shared how reviewing customer order patterns uncovered opportunities for efficiency and growth. Both of us underscored that careful data analysis not only identifies issues but also drives measurable cost savings and smarter strategies.

The Role and Rewards of Supply Chain

We also touched on the wide-reaching impact of supply chain management. I reflected on my time working for an association that eventually sunsetted, showing how new educational programs reshaped the field. Jared shared how his passion for global cultures drew him to supply chain, and I emphasized the energy of negotiations and the creativity required to solve complex problems. Together, we highlighted how knowledge of supply chain can unlock both career opportunities and strategic advantages.

Navigating Modern Challenges

Jared and I closed the discussion by addressing today’s evolving supply chain landscape. From tariff changes to reshoring conversations, the challenges are significant, but so are the opportunities. Jared stressed the role of data science in helping companies adapt, while we both reinforced the importance of continued education and training for the next generation of supply chain leaders. Jared also shared how listeners can connect with him for further insights.

Jared Paget is an operations executive with over 15 years of experience transforming underperforming organizations and driving business growth across multiple continents. From leading Lean turnarounds that reduced backorders from $5 million to $250,000, to launching a greenfield battery assembly plant in Brazil that generated $20 million in revenue within six months, Jared knows how to turn operational challenges into measurable results.

In this episode, Jared shares how he tackles adversity, scales businesses, and builds resilient teams through accountability and continuous improvement. With a passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders, his insights blend boardroom strategy with hands-on leadership—giving listeners practical tools for navigating complexity, fostering resilience, and achieving sustainable growth.