Supply Chain Now The Buzz: Procurement Innovation, Logistics Power Plays, and Leading Through Change
Jan 23, 2026
In this discussion, Scott McPhee, CEO of SpendHQ, dives into the rapidly shifting supply chain landscape. He explores how Amazon's logistics strategy is altering UPS operations and the challenges posed by leadership turnover. Scott highlights Oracle's insights on AI's role in boosting procurement productivity and the crucial investment in Sligo.ai for smarter decision-making. He also shares lessons from Cowart Seafood's digital transformation, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new technologies for legacy businesses.
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Customer Power Can Reshape Carriers
- Amazon shifted from carrier customer to owning its own delivery network after UPS dominated relationships and constrained service.
- Kim Reuter warns companies must avoid optimizing their business entirely around one giant customer or risk long-term harm.
Turnover Reveals Leadership Pipeline Gaps
- Gartner found leadership turnover disrupted execution for over half of supply chain organizations.
- Scott McPhee says companies must build disciplined succession and long-term leader development now.
Prioritize Collaboration Over Tech Alone
- Develop collaborative, creative, and proactive supply chain leaders rather than reactive, isolated managers.
- Prioritize collaboration skills over simply training people on new tools like AI, says Kim Reuter.