Explore every episode of the podcast The Future of Supply Chain

This week we, together with Paige Cox, Chief Product Officer at Everstream, explore the evolving landscape of supply chain risk management. Paige shares insights on integrating AI, real-time data, and human expertise to build adaptive, measurable resilience. The conversation covers geopolitical disruptions, tariff impacts, reshoring challenges, and the future of supply chain technology platforms for improved foresight and collaboration

In this insightful episode, join hosts Richard and Oyku as they welcome cybersecurity expert Gabriele Fiata from SAP to discuss how supply chains are evolving in the face of increasing cyber threats. As supply chains grow faster and more complex, security can no longer be an afterthought - it must be built into systems like ERP from the ground up. Gabriele highlights the shift towards a shared responsibility model in cloud security, emphasizing collaboration between businesses, vendors, and partners. With threats escalating, AI-powered detection and automated defenses are becoming critical tools to spot breaches before they happen. The conversation also reveals how companies are embracing new mindsets and training people to be the first line of defense, turning a potential weak point into a strength. Tune in to hear how smart planning and resilience can protect your business and keep supply chains moving smoothly. Don’t miss this chance to learn from real-world insights and a recent IDC study that quantifies the high value of these new security approaches. Listen now and discover how securing the supply chain can secure your future.

This week, we, together with Martin Rowan, reveal how private equity investment raises the stakes for companies to improve business performance. Martin explains why many SAP users underutilize their systems and offers practical steps and real case successes to unlock hidden value.

This week we, together with Bristlecone’s Robert Kalbach and Guru Parvati, dive into the necessity of business networks for collaboration and transparency in complex supply chains. We discuss challenges like ESG compliance, integration of business systems, AI’s role in decision-making, and how SAP and Bristlecone partner to create connected, intelligent, and autonomous supply chain ecosystems for competitive advantage.

This week, we, together with SP van Houten, explore how intelligent automation and AI are reshaping supply chain planning. The episode covers overcoming traditional silos, driving real-time collaboration, integrating sustainability goals, and empowering teams with advanced tools for continuous improvement in supply chain operations.

In this episode, Richard Howells talks with SAP’s Till Dengel about the new SAP Logistics Management, a solution that digitizes small and remote operations and unifies warehouse and transport with a built-in carrier network. They unpack the shift from pure efficiency to agility and control, the trade-offs of decentralized warehousing, and why connected systems matter. And they also explore how AI and robotics will reshape logistics, and the digital foundations needed to unlock their value. Tune in for practical ways to meet evolving supply chain demands and build resilient operations.

This week we, together with Kyle Winters of the World Economic Forum, explore the evolution of global supply chains through the lens of their report "From Shock to Strategy." We cover key disruptions, regionalization's benefits and risks, regulatory compliance, consumer expectations, climate risk mitigation, cybersecurity, and the pillars of future-ready value chains.

This week we, together with RTS’s Doug Holtke, explore how manufacturers can achieve operational excellence by leveraging manufacturing execution systems (MES), real-time visibility, and AI. Doug shares insights on improving quality, efficiency, and decision making on the shop floor, common challenges, and how RTS supports companies with holistic operational strategies.

This week we, together with Manish Kapoor, explore the rapid evolution of supply chains from supportive roles to strategic business drivers. We discuss how tariffs, shifting consumer behavior, and technology like AI and automation demand adaptable and data-driven supply chains, especially for managing last mile delivery and holiday season surges.

This week we, together with Michael Augustine from Westernacher, explore the critical role of yard management in connecting warehousing and transportation. Michael shares benefits of digitization, challenges faced without proper yard systems, AI use cases, and future trends.

This week we, together with CSCMP’s CEO Mark Baxa, explore critical supply chain challenges, the transformative impact of AI, strategies for resilience and sustainability, and the importance of education and talent development for the future workforce.

Tune into this episode of 'The Future of Supply Chain,' where Richard and Sin chat with World Economic Forum's fellow Benedikt Gieger. They'll unpack the hottest trends driving the evolution of supply chains, inspired by groundbreaking insights from two key WEF white papers. Imagine a future where supply chains are smart, sustainable, and globally synced. Get ready to explore the roles of AI, quantum computing, real-time data, and more in reshaping industries. Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the cutting-edge future of supply chains!

This week we, together with Andres Mendoza Pena from Kearney, explore findings from the annual State of Logistics Report. We discuss the ongoing challenges in the motor carrier sector, growth in e-commerce and last-mile delivery, the increasing importance of sustainability, and how emerging technologies including AI are shaping the future of supply chains amid growing uncertainty.

This episode explores one of the most critical challenges facing global supply chains: sustainability. Joined by SAP experts Katja Keller and Mathias Kaldenhoff, the discussion sheds light on how sustainable practices are evolving and why they’re becoming a strategic priority for businesses worldwide. Key topics include: • The changing definition of sustainability, from purely environmental to a broader economic and social perspective • The growing importance of regulatory compliance and how it’s shaping supply chain strategies • The vital role of data and digital technologies in enabling transparency and action

This podcast episode explores the complex relationship between AI and sustainability in supply chains. Experts MarySue Barrett and Regenia Sanders highlight AI's potential to optimize operations, improve climate monitoring, and support decarbonization, while also addressing AI’s significant energy, water, and mineral consumption. They discuss strategies for responsible AI governance, transparency, and cross-industry collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the growing importance of supply chain visibility, sustainable technology innovation, federal advocacy, and supplier engagement. Highlighting the Women’s Leadership Center’s role in empowering female leaders, the episode encourages thoughtful AI adoption as a powerful tool to balance business growth with environmental responsibility.

This week we, together with Marco Trottmann from Westernacher, explore how advanced robotics and AI are reshaping the warehouse of the future. Marco shares insights on evolving automation technologies, AI-driven orchestration, real-world use cases, and how integrating these innovations with enterprise systems creates adaptive, resilient supply chains that anticipate and respond to changing demands.

This week we, together with SAP's Gordon Donovan, delve into strategic procurement in an era of polycrisis. We unpack the Economist Impact Report findings, discuss top risks from geopolitics to AI, the need for agility, and how procurement leaders are adapting their strategies for resilience and value.

This week we, together with SAP’s Aladdin Mandishah, dive into the future of digital traceability in supply chains. We discuss the technologies behind traceability, its role in building trust and meeting ESG goals, real-world pharma examples, challenges in adoption, and how SAP’s solutions and AI are shaping resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains. Come join us we discuss the future of supply chain.

This week, we are joined by Simon Ellis from IDC to explore the complexities and challenges that modern supply chains face. We discuss the limitations of legacy systems and the balance between resiliency and efficiency. Join us to learn about the importance of speed, data quality, and AI-enabled integrated platforms, and discover why these factors represent the future of supply chains.

This episode explores how Business Networks are fundamentally transforming supply chain collaboration. By connecting companies and their diverse trading partners on a unified platform, these networks automate transactions, enable real-time visibility, and replace outdated, fragmented processes. The conversation highlights how organizations leveraging Business Networks are achieving measurable results: launching products 30% faster, reducing partner onboarding time by up to 70%, and cutting invoice processing time by 59%. These gains translate into significant cost savings, greater agility, and improved compliance. Ultimately, Business Networks are breaking down silos and empowering both buyers and suppliers to thrive in today’s complex, rapidly changing global landscape - making them an essential driver of resilience and innovation in modern supply chains.

This week we discuss the evolving future of supply chains with Loftware’s Jim Bureau. Topics include the rise of cloud platforms, the critical role of data and AI, supply chain collaboration challenges, combating counterfeiting with digital product passports, and ensuring sustainability and ethical compliance. Learn how digital twins and real-time networks are revolutionizing supply chain visibility and trust. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain

This week we discuss telecom industry trends with SAP’s Sandeep Chowdhury, covering 5G adoption, AI-powered network optimization, the promise of 6G, and sustainability challenges. Learn how telecom supply chains are evolving with digital transformation, circular economy practices, and integrated ecosystems to meet future connectivity and environmental demands. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

This week we discuss the Supply Chain Logistics Maturity Model with experts Adrian Gonzalez and Doug DeLuca. They break down the four maturity levels helping supply chain leaders understand where they stand and how to advance. Plus, insights on future trends like AI and robotics that will transform logistics management in the years ahead. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain

This episode delves into the dynamic future of retail, spotlighting the pivotal role of AI in reshaping supply chains and customer interactions by 2025. Experts discuss how retailers are harnessing AI to deliver hyper-personalized shopping experiences, leveraging clean data to anticipate consumer needs and optimize inventory. The conversation explores the increasing importance of sustainability, with brands adopting eco-friendly practices and transparent supply chains to meet conscious consumer demands. The rise of social commerce platforms like TikTok is also examined, revealing how retailers are integrating social media into their sales strategies and supply chain management for unprecedented agility. This episode offers valuable insights into how technology, strategic data utilization, and a commitment to sustainability are converging to redefine the retail landscape and create new opportunities for brands and consumers alike.

GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser 2. Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Nase vorn.

This week we discuss how to orchestrate supply chains in volatile markets with SAP’s Jeb Insley. He shares insights on navigating disruptions from pandemics to geopolitical risks, the rise of supply chain leadership, balancing cost and resilience, and the critical role of connected digital systems and AI-driven orchestration in enabling agile, end-to-end supply chain networks. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

This week we discuss the future for oil, gas, and energy companies with Stephane Lauzon from SAP. We dig deeper in topics of logistics in remote locations, asset maintenance, predictive planning, and how companies are embracing biofuels, hydrogen, and carbon capture to drive sustainability. Discover how technology and innovation are transforming supply chains to meet the energy demands of tomorrow. Come join us as we discuss the future of Supply Chain!

GreenTech in der Lieferkette – Nachhaltig, Digital: Wettbewerbsfähig in dieser Folge sprechen wir darüber, wie Unternehmen ihre Lieferketten nicht nur grüner, sondern auch smarter machen können. Mit am Start: Technologien wie GreenToken und GreenLedger, die für echte Transparenz sorgen. Außerdem klären wir, was es mit dem Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz und der CSRD auf sich hat – und warum das Ganze mehr Chance als Pflicht ist. Spoiler: Wer jetzt digital und nachhaltig denkt, hat die Nase vorn.

This week we discuss how reshoring is reshaping the U.S. manufacturing landscape amid rising tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Our guest, Ashley Hetrick from BDO USA, shares insights from a recent CFO survey highlighting cost, resiliency, and technology as key drivers. We explore emerging manufacturing hubs in Texas, Nevada, and Washington, and industries leading the reshoring trend. Come join us as we discuss the future of supply chain!

Join us this week, as we discuss how geopolitical instability and tariffs are reshaping global supply chains. Lori Harner and Jay Foster from SAP share how agile, integrated business planning and collaborative supplier networks enable companies to navigate complex regulations and cost pressures. Discover how AI and scenario planning empower smarter decisions, turning tariff challenges into strategic opportunities for resilience and growth in today’s volatile environment

In this week’s episode we dive into right-shoring, reshoring and regionalizing manufacturing with Ascential’s Todd Bauman. We discuss how holistic decision-making Is essential for right shoring and regionalization, and why automation and resilience are key to addressing labor and geopolitical challenges. We also delve into why regional supply chains help hedge against disruption and the importance of supplier collaboration and communication strategies. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

In this week’s episode we discuss the trends, challenges and opportunities in the area of transportation management with Westernacher’s Matt Paulaitis. Matt discusses challenges such as organizational silos, tariff impacts, and the need for unified data, and the role of predictive analytics, machine learning, and AI integration to optimize operations and enhance real-time decision-making. Matt also explained why companies are investing Companies are investing in digital supply chain systems and collaborative portals to increase agility, resilience, and operational efficiency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

In this week's episode, we're joined by Market Veep's Janelle McGrath to discuss the intertwined worlds of supply chain, marketing, and sales. We explore how aligning these departments can boost efficiency and customer satisfaction, and dive into strategies for maximizing visibility of new products and communicating sustainable practices effectively. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

In this week's episode we welcome back SAP’s David Vallejo. Together we dive into the evolving landscape of supply chain management, discussing how businesses are shifting from siloed operations to integrated orchestration, explore the transformative role of AI in enabling real-time decision-making, boosting resilience, and fostering sustainability. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

The consumer goods industry is undergoing a seismic shift driven by AI and digital technologies. Joined by our own Maria Morais, we unpack key trends for 2025, including subscription-based models powered by AI customization, experience-driven commerce blending digital and physical retail, dynamic pricing enabled by real-time analytics, and hyper-personalization. Also, sustainability takes center stage as brands embrace ethical supply chains and transparency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Joined by Efficio’s Barbara Guignard, we dive into the causes behind the current cocoa crisis, including climate challenges and underinvestment in cocoa plants. Discover how chocolate manufacturers are responding through recipe alterations, sustainability initiatives, and supply chain innovations, whilst tapping into emerging technologies and potential alternatives that may shape the future of chocolate production and consumption. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

With insights from SAP’s Mark Averskog and Descartes’ Eric Geerts, together, we dive into the world of ocean transportation, highlighting the importance of sea freight in global trade, current challenges faced by shippers and carriers, and the ongoing digital transformation of the industry. Learn about the push for greater visibility, process automation, and sustainability in maritime logistics, and how these advancements are set to revolutionize supply chain management in the coming years. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Hannover Messe is just around the corner, and who better to discuss the future of supply chains with than Dominik Metzger, President & Chief Product Officer Supply Chain Management. In this episode, we explore how AI can help to build resilient supply chains, the crucial role of data, and how the interplay between structured and unstructured data enables faster decision-making. We also take a closer look at the impact of SAP Business Suite and Business Data Cloud on supply chain management and discuss why sustainability is not just a challenge but a game-changing opportunity for businesses. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Joined by Westernacher’s Alexis Lozada, we dive into the world of network aware planning, a revolutionary approach to supply chain management that focuses on understanding the interconnectedness of various networks within the supply chain. Discover how this strategy helps businesses make informed decisions, prepare for disruptions, and optimize inventory allocation. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Navigating manufacturing's future: Supply chains face disruption, talent pools shrink, and sustainability demands rise. Discover how AI, cloud tech, and data-driven strategies offer solutions. Hear Judy Cubiss from SAP share insights on building resilient, efficient, and future-proof industrial operations. Companies are rethinking supply chains for resilience and embracing collaboration platforms. AI offers potential for automation and insights but requires robust data management and infrastructure. Sustainability is now a financial imperative, with regulations driving the need for data collection and tools like green ledgers. Flexibility and agility are crucial in responding to evolving trade policies, with scenario planning becoming essential. Cloud ERP systems offer smaller manufacturers access to advanced technologies, aiding in talent management and innovation. Join us as we dive into the Future of Supply Chain.

This week, we’re joined by McKinsey & Company’s Kevin Goering to dive into the insights from their fifth annual Global Supply Chain Leader Survey, revealing how executives are responding to persistent disruptions and shifting priorities. Together, we dive into the delicate balance between cost management and risk mitigation, the challenges of digital adoption, and the growing focus on nearshoring and dual sourcing, discovering why some companies may be taking their eye off the ball when it comes to supply chain resilience, and what strategies are proving most effective in today's dynamic business environment. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

As inflation, energy volatility, and supply chain bottlenecks strain the packaging industry, companies grapple with trade-offs between cost reduction and durability. This week, ProcureAbility’s Joe Adamski joins us to dive into strategies like lightweighting materials, on-site renewable energy, and rethinking the possibilities with transportation logistics. Together, we examine the viability of "net zero" claims, greenwashing risks, and innovations like sensor-driven energy optimization. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

This week, Niall Brennan - former FBI agent turned SAP cybersecurity strategist - details the critical role of securing supply chains amid rising cyber threats. With 22 years of FBI experience in counterterrorism, cybercrime, and intelligence, Brennan now bridges public-private partnerships to safeguard SAP’s digital ecosystem. He discusses threat intelligence sharing, incident response, regulatory compliance, and anticipatory resilience strategies, highlighting the need for "personality-resistant" global collaboration to neutralize vulnerabilities in an era of rapid technological disruption. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

This week, we’re joined by Adelante SCM’s Adrian Gonzalez to talk all things logistics – no pun intended. With logistics moving into the forefront of companies’ digital transformation, we dove into the importance of valuing and utilizing the broader supplier network, seizing the momentum of the technology transformation and acceleration, and sharpening your visibility beyond your four walls. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

This week, Deloitte's Tim Gaus joins the series to explors the future of manufacturing, discussing key challenges manufacturers are set to face in 2025, including workforce management, agility in production, and technology modernization. Together, we highlight the importance of balancing human expertise with automation, the impact of generative AI on manufacturing processes, and the need for a harmonized digital core to optimize supply chain management and manufacturing efficiency. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

As many trends and predictions for this new year, from regionalized supply chains to AI-powered technologies to sustainability initiatives taking the forefront, executives are looking for ways to radicalize their business processes. This week, Lisa Anderson joins us to dive into these new strategies and initiatives that will continue to drive change in businesses as we enter 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

You know the saying… new year, new predictions? That’s right – to kick off 2025, Sarah Barnes-Humphrey joins us to discuss the patterns, trends, and predictions we see driving digital supply chain transformation this upcoming year, like increased focus on cybersecurity, automation and humans’ new bond, and making supply chain fun again. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Produktionsstätten verlagern? Klingt wie ein Umzug mit zu vielen Kartons – nur komplexer, global und riskanter. In dieser Folge spreche ich mit meinen beiden Kollegen Ralf Lehmann und Matthias Deindl darüber wie den Überblick über Lieferketten, Daten und Prozesse bei einer Standortverlagerung behält, warum Cloud-ERP euer digitales Umzugsunternehmen sein kann und wie ihr Produktions-Pannen vermeidet. Damit der Neustart kein Totalschaden wird! Und natürlich geht es auch um die SAP S.Factory.

What a year it has been! On this special episode, Richard, Sin, and Nicole look back on a memorable 2024, recapping the top trends, such as risk resiliency, sustainability, visibility and transparency, AI, and next generation, shared with our incredible guests, and look forward to the future, predicting what is to come in 2025. Come join us as we discuss the Future of Supply Chain.

Warum sind Datenvisualisierungen ein Gamechanger für Lieferketten? In dieser Episode diskutieren wir mit Jens Wille (Ubilabs) und Stefan Wiech (bloog), wie Unternehmen durch smarte Visualisierungstechniken nicht nur ihre Lieferketten optimieren, sondern auch Risiken gezielt minimieren können. Erfahrt, warum die richtige Darstellung von Daten mehr ist als ein nettes Extra – sie ist der Schlüssel zu effizienteren Prozessen und strategischen Entscheidungen. Lass dich inspirieren und erfahre, wie smarte Daten den Unterschied machen! Wenn euch der Podcast gefallen hat, dann gebt uns gern ein „Like“, teilt und abonniert uns, um über zukünftige Episoden auf dem Laufenden zu bleiben!