Operating conditions for supply chains continue to shift faster than most organizations can plan for. Labor pressures, evolving customer expectations, geopolitical uncertainty, and increasingly complex global networks are forcing leaders to rethink how decisions get made and how teams stay aligned when certainty is no longer guaranteed.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mario Morhy, Vice President, Integrated Planning at Sam’s Club, Mike Gomes, Vice President of Supply Chain North America at Perfetti Van Melle, and Rodrigo Alponti, Senior Vice President Global Supply Chain at STADA Group. Together, they reflect on how supply chain leadership has evolved over the past year, moving away from linear optimization toward adaptability, resilience, and closer collaboration with customers and partners.

The panel also explores how AI is accelerating the pace of insight and action, enabling faster scenario planning, stronger visibility, and more empowered teams. Rather than replacing people, AI emerges as a decision-making copilot, freeing leaders to focus on risk, tradeoffs, and long-term value. The conversation closes with practical leadership takeaways on learning faster than competitors, asking better questions, and building cultures that can turn volatility into advantage.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:58) Mike Gomes shares supply chain leadership insights

(04:16) Rodrigo Alponti's global supply chain perspective

(06:20) Mario Morhy's role at Sam's Club

(08:18) Supply chain challenges and innovations discussed

(18:05) Customer centricity in the never normal

(25:18) Current challenges in today's supply chain

(30:12) Walmart's AI integration in supply chain

(32:01) AI as a copilot for supply chain employees

(38:07) Transforming volatility into competitive advantage

(43:02) Key questions leaders should ask their teams

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Mario Morhy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariomorhy/
2. Learn more about Sam’s Club: https://www.samsclub.com/
3. Connect with Mike Gomes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gomes-282228/
4. Learn more about Perfetti Van Melle: https://www.perfettivanmelle.com/
5. Connect with Rodrigo Alponti: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigo-alponti-a9873/
6. Learn more about STADA Group: https://www.stada.com/
7. Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
8. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
9. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
10. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
11. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
12. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
13. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
14. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/supply-chain-leadership-never-normal-power-panel-supply-chain-leaders-rewriting-rules-1534

The future of supply chain is entering a pivotal moment, and in this episode of Supply Chain Now, we unpack the trends, risks, and realities that will define 2026 and beyond. From geopolitical uncertainty and economic turbulence to shifting trade policy, energy innovation, and workforce challenges, this conversation cuts through the headlines to focus on what supply chain leaders must be ready for now. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EPG!

Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr break down the most critical forces reshaping global supply chains — and what they mean for strategy, resilience, and execution in an increasingly volatile world. They’re joined by special guest Tanzil Uddin, Senior Vice President of Content and Partnerships at Manifest, who brings a unique perspective on industry leadership, community, and the broader role supply chains play in society.

Together, they discuss:

1. Why geopolitical risk and economic turbulence are no longer episodic — and how leaders must redesign supply chains for constant volatility
2. The potential implications of upcoming Supreme Court decisions on tariffs and what normalization of trade disruption could mean for 2026 planning
3. Five defining trends executives should be watching closely, including supply chain fragmentation, cost optimization pressures, AI recalibration, and persistent workforce challenges
4. How rising energy demands tied to AI and advanced technology are fueling renewed interest in nuclear innovation
5. Why National Human Trafficking Prevention Month matters to the supply chain community — and how supply chain professionals can play a meaningful role in combating human trafficking through awareness and action

Tune in for a timely, thought-provoking discussion that connects strategy, technology, and social responsibility — and challenges supply chain leaders to stay agile, informed, and purpose-driven as they navigate what’s next.

Additional Links & Resources:

1. EPG: https://epg.com/
2. With That Said:https://bit.ly/WTS-11-JAN-2026
3. American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN): https://www.alanaid.org/operations/
4. Manifest: https://partner.manife.st/partner/supplychainnow
5. 5 supply chain management trends to watch in 2026: https://bit.ly/2026-SCM-Trends
6. Supreme Court holds off on Trump tariff ruling for now — what’s at stake for economy: https://bit.ly/3LvCDiH
7. Rolls-Royce SMR project could kickstart EU supply chain: https://bit.ly/4jERJ1Y
8. Inland Kenworth supports human trafficking awareness in many ways: https://bit.ly/IK-Combats-Trafficking
9. Inside Outdoor Cap's Warehouse: https://bit.ly/3N3q6Dv
10. Join us in Las Vegas for Manifest 2026: https://bit.ly/4qegTXz
11. Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/
12. Connect with Tanzil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanziluddin/
13. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
14. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
15. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
16. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-counting-manifest-1533

Welcome to 2026 — and welcome to Supply Chain Now. In this episode, we kick off the new year by welcoming new listeners and sharing how you can engage with one of the world’s most active supply chain communities.

We reflect on an incredible 2025, including our milestone of ranking in the top 1% of podcasts globally, and break down what makes Supply Chain Now unique — from three weekly podcast episodes to live streams, webinars, and conversations that bring supply chain professionals together from around the world.

Looking ahead, we tease what’s coming next in 2026, including new miniseries, fresh formats, and a continued focus on innovation, connection, and meaningful industry dialogue. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re just discovering the show, this episode is your invitation to plug in, join the conversation, and help shape what’s next for the global supply chain community.

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
2. Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/our-team-and-hosts/
3. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
4. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
5. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
6. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
7. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
8. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/unveiling-future-supply-chain-primer-2026-1532

Supply chains around the world are navigating relentless disruption, rising expectations for speed and resilience, and rapid advances in AI-driven decision-making. Leaders are under pressure to move beyond experimentation and deliver measurable value faster than ever.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton sits down with two industry leaders: Philip Vervloesem, Chief Commercial & Markets Officer at OMP, and Scott Barnard, Managing Director at Bluecrux, live from the Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit in Denver. Drawing on their work across global enterprises, both guests discuss how organizations translate advanced planning concepts into real-world results.

The interviews with Philip and Scott explore the evolution toward autonomous, data-driven planning, the importance of self-funding ROI models, and why successful transformation depends on blending human expertise with machine intelligence. From OMP’s Unison platform and rapid value delivery approach to Bluecrux’s AI-powered analytics and decision intelligence capabilities, the conversation highlights how supply chain leaders can move from surface-level automation to profound, scalable impact.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:19) Gartner Supply Chain Planning Summit overview

(01:15) Interview with Philip Vervloesem from OMP

(02:05) OMP's approach to supply chain optimization

(03:52) Challenges and innovations in supply chain

(08:09) Interview with Scott Barnard from Bluecrux

(09:03) Bluecrux's Solutions and Innovations

(11:08) AI and supply chain balance

(13:33) Upcoming events

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Philip Vervloesem: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipvervloesem
2. Connect with Scott Barnard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-barnard-a350814/
3. Learn more about OMP: https://www.omp.com
4. Learn more about Bluecrux: https://www.bluecrux.com
5. Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
6. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
7. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
8. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
9. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
10. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
11. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
12. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/innovative-industry-leaders-transforming-supply-chain-planning-1531

The future of supply chain is entering a defining chapter, and today, we dig into the signals, shifts, and strategic decisions shaping what’s ahead in 2026. From ongoing trade volatility and labor disruptions to the accelerating role of AI and integrated planning, this episode cuts through the noise to focus on what leaders must prepare for now. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by EPG!

Listen in as hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa break down the most important developments influencing global supply chains — and how leaders can build resilience in the face of constant disruption. They’re joined by special guest Alex Pradhan, Founder of Alchemy Advisors, who brings practical perspective on how organizations are adapting strategy, technology, and decision-making for what’s next.

Together, they discuss:

1. Why systemic disruptions — from trade policy shifts and labor unrest to natural disasters — are no longer exceptions, and how leaders must rethink resilience as a core capability
2. Key predictions for 2026, including the normalization of tariff impacts, a potential U.S. manufacturing boom, and the continued maturation of integrated business planning
3. How AI is moving beyond experimentation to accelerate decision-making, supported by a real-world case study from a major beauty brand using AI to speed product development
4. Why orchestration matters more than ever, and how system-level decisions can move outcomes instead of simply reacting to disruption
5. How AI may soon become foundational to employee productivity, shifting the conversation from functional ROI to long-term human capital development

Tune in as we connect the dots, challenge assumptions, and explore what these trends mean for manufacturers, retailers, and supply chain leaders preparing for 2026 and beyond.

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Learn more about EPG: https://epg.com
2. With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-4JAN2025
3. American Logistics Aid Network (ALAN): https://www.alanaid.org/operations/
4. Tariffs, strikes, and tragedies: How 2025 transformed supply chains: https://bit.ly/big-2025-stories
5. Inside Outdoor Cap's Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/3N3q6Dv
6. Coty is Speeding up Its Supply Chain to Turn Around Sagging Sales: https://bit.ly/496B17Z
7. Tensions Rise Between Consumer Expectations and Consumer Supply Chains: https://bit.ly/44ZQft8
8. All ROI is About Human Capital - Making All Employees More Valuable: https://bit.ly/45EU1rY
9. Orchestration in Isolation: https://bit.ly/3YoXIOE
10. Connect with Alex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejandrapradhan/
11. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
12. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
13. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
14. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
15. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
16. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
17. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-supply-chain-predictions-2026

As global supply chains navigate through cybersecurity threats and rapid technological integration, companies must rethink their strategies to stay competitive. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting corporate systems through sophisticated tactics, such as email infiltration, to gain access to sensitive data, including bills of lading. This underscores the need for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity and ensure their supply chains remain secure.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa sit down with Gustav Khambatta, SVP, Head of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to explore key themes in supply chain management. They discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity, AI's impact on the industry, and the challenges posed by cargo theft and security breaches.

They talk about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, highlighting how technology is transforming business operations. AI is being integrated into supply chain processes, with use cases ranging from fraud prevention to streamlining document verification. However, as AI adoption accelerates, so does the potential for security vulnerabilities. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous adaptation in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape, where technology and security will play a central role in shaping the future.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:02) Sports talk: Patriots, Falcons, F1

(06:19) Gustav’s professional journey

(08:01) US Bank Freight Payment Index insights

(14:39) Cybersecurity in the corporate world

(20:22) AI in supply chain and cybersecurity

(23:28) AI and cybersecurity integration

(24:08) Regulatory environment and leadership challenges

(24:38) Supply chain evolution and technology

(27:26) AI in supply chain management

(29:35) Reflections on 2025

(32:29) Energy demand and AI

(37:02) Predictions for 2026

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Gustav Khambatta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/
2. Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com/index.html
3. Download the most recent edition of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
4. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
5. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
6. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
7. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
8. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
9. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
10. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/adapting-change-2025-lessons-supply-chain-insights-2026-predictions-us-bank-1529

Disruptions in global supply chains, from trade uncertainties to the rapid integration of AI, are challenging companies to rethink their strategies. At the same time, businesses must address talent shortages, enhance workforce capabilities, and navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. The result is a supply chain ecosystem at a pivotal moment, requiring leaders to blend policy, talent, and technology to stay competitive.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to reflect on the state of supply chain in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the significant challenges and opportunities in supply chain planning, including AI adoption, talent strategy, and the impact of tariffs.

Scott and Mike discuss how AI is moving from pilot to scale, helping businesses unlock significant value across sourcing and logistics. They highlight the importance of integrating AI with talent strategies to empower workers rather than replace them. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of trade policy and how companies must build it into their long-term strategy. The episode concludes with insights into navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and the imperative for businesses to embrace innovation while managing uncertainty.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:05) Impact of the space shuttle program

(05:17) Overcoming setbacks in large-scale initiatives

(07:25) Shifting from AI pilots to scaled solutions

(09:11) Space exploration’s unexpected byproducts for innovation

(10:07) Reflecting on supply chain performance in 2025

(12:42) Adapting supply chain strategies to tariffs

(15:05) Balancing AI implementation with talent development

(16:19) Upskilling talent in the age of AI

(19:31) Evaluating AI’s role in workforce reductions

(21:13) Connecting AI, talent, and corporate strategies

(23:24) Aligning AI and talent strategies for 2026

(27:05) Supply chain leaders embracing complexity and uncertainty

(34:05) Targeting AI solutions to specific business problems

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
2. Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en
3. Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
4. Check out Gartner's "Year in Review: Supply Chain 2025" by Stan Aronow and Wade McDaniel: https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/insights/beyond-supply-chain-blog/year-in-review-supply-chain-2025
5. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
6. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
7. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
8. Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
9. WEBINAR- 2026 Procurement Priorities: What’s Changing (and What You Need to Do First): https://bit.ly/3Yodf0Z
10. WEBINAR- Building the New Manufacturing Workforce: https://bit.ly/4iVb4vl
11. WEBINAR- Building the Foundation for Agentic AI in the Modern Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/4s634vN

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/reflections-2025-3-supply-chain-lessons-larned-2026-1528

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry.

Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness of supply chain careers, the importance of experiential learning, and how companies can build stronger internship pipelines. They also dive into the intersection of retail media networks and supply chain strategy—an emerging opportunity to shape demand and improve operational efficiency.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Rod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-thomas-a409a41/
• Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/
• Learn more about the Sam M. Walton School of Business: https://walton.uark.edu/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/classroom-boardroom-preparing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1404

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott W. Luton sits down with Melanie Salter, Director of Supply Chain Research at boom! Global Network, to discuss the evolving role of people in supply chain strategy. Together, they explore the intersection of data, strategic network design, and inclusive leadership—and why businesses that overlook workforce engagement risk falling behind.

Melanie shares insights on industry trends, from AI adoption and decision-making challenges to the importance of building diverse, resilient supply chains. She also breaks down the latest research on workplace inclusion and its direct impact on business performance.

For supply chain leaders, business strategists, and professionals navigating change, this episode delivers practical takeaways on creating supply chains that are both efficient and people-focused.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:15) The unexpected career pivot for Melanie

(07:42) A major industry shift that changed business operations

(12:08) How AI and automation are transforming workflows

(16:30) The biggest challenge facing professionals today

(20:51) Strategies that helped companies stay competitive

(25:14) A case study on adapting to rapid market changes

(29:37) How strong leadership drives real innovation

(34:05) The biggest misconception about industry growth

(38:22) boom! Global Network’s role in shaping market trends

(42:19) How businesses can prepare for upcoming shifts

(46:03) Why mentorship is critical for long-term success

(54:10) What’s next for the industry

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Melanie Salter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniesalter/
• Learn more about boom! Global Network: https://boomglobalnetwork.com/
• Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Joshua Miranda. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/eureka-moments-research-data-supply-chain-journey-1395

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Paul Brooks, founder of Go Further Consulting, and Dave Food, Chief Strategy Officer at Prophetic Technology, to explore the evolving demands of supply chain leadership in today’s global economy. They discuss how the role has become more visible since the COVID-19 pandemic, why leadership fundamentals like judgment, communication, and resilience remain constant, and how AI and technology are reshaping the way leaders think and operate.

Paul shares insights from interviewing 50 global executives on servant leadership and values-based decision making. At the same time, Dave emphasizes the importance of T-shaped leaders who balance specialist expertise with a broad organizational perspective. Together, they highlight why empowering teams to experiment safely, aligning metrics across functions, and fostering collaboration with suppliers and customers are critical for long-term success. This conversation offers a clear roadmap for developing future-ready leaders who can navigate complexity and inspire high-performing teams.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:48) Core mantras and leadership philosophies

(07:23) Paul and Dave’s career journeys

(11:35) Challenges facing supply chain leadership today

(16:23) Why customer experience drives supply chains

(18:26) The bigger picture and process explained

(27:02) The role of the wider team

(28:38) Aligning KPIs with new CEO strategies

(29:29) Supply chain leadership in the boardroom

(31:51) Specialists versus generalists in supply chain

(36:02) Understanding the T-shaped leader concept

(42:39) Leadership mistakes to avoid in supply chains

(45:22) Future trends in supply chain leadership

(48:46) Projects and initiatives from Paul and Dave

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Paul Brooks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulbrooksfcilt/
• Learn more about Go Further Consulting: http://www.gofurtherconsulting.co.uk/
• Learn more about Paul’s website: www.wordstoinspire.co.uk
• Connect with Dave Food: http://www.linkedin.com/in/davefood
• Learn more about Prophetic Technology: https://www.prophetic-technology.com/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/key-elements-optimizing-supply-chain-leadership-2026-beyond-1496

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For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected] © 2025 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Lushentha Naidoo, Managing Director of the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP), for a candid conversation on purpose-driven leadership and the business value of inclusive procurement. Drawing on a 14-year transformation career at Unilever and a personal journey from apartheid-era South Africa to global operations leadership, Lushentha shares how caring as a leadership “superpower” can fuel innovation, save jobs, and build psychologically safe teams. She explains how supplier diversity isn’t charity. It’s a competitive advantage that increases agility, strengthens resilience, and unlocks fresh thinking when disruption hits.

She also breaks down how ESDP bridges corporates and diverse suppliers through a fast-growing database, networking events, and the Inclusive Procurement Academy, teaching pitching, storytelling, and “corporate readiness.” From real success stories (mentorship that kept a founder in the fight) to pragmatic guidance for senior leaders doubling down on DEI, this conversation offers actionable takeaways: define the why, build inclusive cultures, and widen the supplier funnel so the best partner wins.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:18) Lushentha’s inspirational journey to Easter Island

(06:50) Growing up during Apartheid

(12:53) The impact of Nelson Mandela's leadership

(17:40) Lushentha’s professional journey at Unilever

(23:45) The power of diversity and inclusion

(26:01) The transition to the European Supplier Diversity Program (ESDP)

(29:09) Lushentha’s advice for corporate leaders

(32:17) Challenges for women in the workplace

(33:52) What ESDP does, its mission, and its impact

(44:06) The importance of inclusivity and DEI

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Lushentha Naidoo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lushentha-naidoo-99730439
• Learn more about ESDP: https://esdp-org.eu/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/equity-action-inclusion-leads-supply-chain-innovation-1483

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