Supply Chain Connect

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Joanne Friedman, CEO and co-founder of ReilAI, a leader in agentic AI for supply chains, emphasizes the critical need for immediate AI investment. She discusses the pitfalls of delaying adoption, highlights the importance of data governance, and offers strategic insights for justifying AI budgets to finance teams. Dr. Friedman also stresses the need for organizations to integrate AI into their core processes, reinforcing that real value comes from aligning AI initiatives with clear business outcomes.

Ann Marie Jonkman, VP of Global Industry Strategies at Blue Yonder, dives into the transformative role of AI in supply chain management. She reveals how agentic AI enhances real-time decision-making and visibility, enabling businesses to swiftly navigate disruptions. Jonkman discusses the vital convergence of planning and execution, illustrating how AI-driven technologies can bolster resilience and efficiency. Her advice for companies includes prioritizing data accessibility and embracing emerging technologies to thrive in today's volatile landscape.

In this episode of Supply Chain Connect, Guy Courtin, VP of Industry and Global Alliances at Tecsys, reveals the critical role of data in modern supply chain operations. Discover why simply having data is not enough—it's about transforming raw information into actionable intelligence. Courtin unpacks the challenges of data management, from communication barriers to the overwhelming volume of digital information, and shares insights on how organizations can effectively leverage their data. Learn why implementing AI before establishing a solid data foundation is like driving a Ferrari on a dirt road, and gain practical strategies for turning your supply chain data into a competitive advantage. Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!

In this episode of Supply Chain Connect, Jack Carrere, co-founder and CEO of Prokeep, discusses the transformative role of AI and automation in distribution. Carrere explores how technology is reshaping order processing, improving customer service and helping distributors compete in an increasingly digital marketplace. He shares practical insights on implementing AI, overcoming organizational challenges and maintaining critical human relationships while embracing technological innovation. The conversation dives into the future of distribution, highlighting how smart technologies can drive efficiency, speed and customer satisfaction. Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!

Paul Baris, Principal at Efficio, brings decades of expertise in procurement and logistics. He delves into the surprising disconnect between freight demand and rising shipping costs, attributing it to geopolitical factors and port congestion. Baris emphasizes the importance of network optimization and scenario planning for resilience amid tariff uncertainties. He also highlights key signals like tariff exposure and fuel prices that supply chain leaders should monitor to stay ahead in today's unpredictable landscape.

Rosemary Coates, Executive Director of the Reshoring Institute, brings her 25+ years of global supply chain expertise to discuss the shifting landscape of manufacturing. She delves into how tariffs are being weaponized geopolitically, causing economic ripples and planning paralysis for businesses. With insights on why U.S. electronics manufacturing isn't returning and Mexico's rising role in nearshoring, she also touches on the necessity of multi-sourcing in an unpredictable climate, providing crucial advice for executives grappling with these challenges.

Rob Picken, SVP of Digital Transformation and Partnerships at Sourceability, unpacks the complex world of semiconductor manufacturing and domestic production. As massive investments from tech giants signal a major shift in U.S. manufacturing, Picken reveals the critical challenges and opportunities facing the electronic component supply chain. Dive deep into the realities of onshoring semiconductor production, including the significant hurdles of skilled workforce development, rising component prices and intricate global trade dynamics. Gain insights into why understanding your supply chain down to the smallest component is crucial for business survival in today's rapidly changing economic landscape. Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!

Manufacturing is undergoing a digital revolution, and the key to success isn't just about technology—it's about people. Farès Sakka from Orange Business reveals how companies are bridging the IT-OT divide, transforming manufacturing through cybersecurity, AI and cross-functional collaboration. Discover why automotive, aerospace and pharmaceutical industries are leading the charge in digitalization and get a glimpse into the future of production. Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!

Robert Reynolds, Founder & CEO of Tangible Intelligence, discusses the groundbreaking transformation in procurement. He highlights how AI is revolutionizing sourcing workflows, making them more efficient and predictive. The conversation dives into tackling rogue spending through advanced technologies and the challenges of gaining recognition within the C-suite. Additionally, Reynolds talks about how modern procurement needs to navigate tariff fluctuations, showcasing the essential role sourcing professionals play in driving enterprise success.

The drayage industry moves every container that enters or leaves the U.S., yet it remains one of the most manual sectors in logistics. In this episode, PortPro's Chief Growth Officer Corey Abbott reveals how AI agents are automating the tedious processes that have plagued container transportation for decades. From AI that automatically updates spreadsheets to intelligent systems that optimize driver dispatching in real-time, discover how technology is transforming the backbone of America's supply chain by eliminating manual work, reducing costly errors and freeing up valuable time for strategic decision-making. Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!