Who Should Attend
Senior-level supply chain professionals who have a significant influence over their companies’ domestic / global supply chain operations.
VP / Directors of Supply Chain Management / Logistics / Distribution
VP / Directors of Operations
VP / Directors Procurement Sourcing
Chief Supply Chain Officers
Chief Logistics Officers
Supply Chain / Logistics / Distribution Managers
Operations Managers
Presidents / CEOs / COOs
Audience At-a-Glance
Elite Supply Chain Executives (Since 2019)
World-Class Speakers (Since 2019)
%
Attendees VP & Above
%
End Users
%
Direct Role in Purchasing
2023 NEXTGEN SPEAKERS
Sean Barbour
SVP Supply Chain
Macy's Inc.
Sean Barbour joined Macy’s in January of 2020 as Vice President of Strategy and Product Flow where he is helping lead a major transformation in Macy's supply chain. In his current role Sean has responsibility for supply chain strategy and operations, network design, data science and analytics, reverse logistics, customer delivery, international and domestic transportation, logistics, Macy’s Backstage distribution, and Bloomingdale’s fulfillment. Since joining Macy’s Sean has focused on establishing a long-term supply chain strategy, advancing Macy’s analytics and technology capabilities, developing best in class talent, and optimizing Macy’s fulfillment and distribution network speed and flexibility.
Previously Sean worked for Walgreens Boots Alliance for 16 years where most recently he led US supply chain development. In his role as US development lead Sean focused on disruptive supply chain technologies and partnerships capable of delivering superior customer and patient outcomes. Prior to heading up development Sean was responsible for global transportation and logistics after numerous leadership roles in supply chain and store operations. Sean currently serves as an advisory board member for the Transportation Center on Telemobility at Northwestern University and the Global Supply Chain Management Advisory Board at Rider University.
Previously Sean worked for Walgreens Boots Alliance for 16 years where most recently he led US supply chain development. In his role as US development lead Sean focused on disruptive supply chain technologies and partnerships capable of delivering superior customer and patient outcomes. Prior to heading up development Sean was responsible for global transportation and logistics after numerous leadership roles in supply chain and store operations. Sean currently serves as an advisory board member for the Transportation Center on Telemobility at Northwestern University and the Global Supply Chain Management Advisory Board at Rider University.
Andrew Byer
Sr. Dir., Global Supply Network Ops.
Procter & Gamble
Senior Director, Global Supply Network Operations
Andrew Byer has 37 years experience in Supply Network Operations at P&G. He has worked in multiple business units and regions, including 12 years based in Asia (Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore.)
He currently is P&G’s Global Supply Network Operations capability leader, with responsibility to develop mastery, drive adoption, ensure governance and lead innovation in work process and tools/systems across COE’s spanning planning, logistics, innovation, and customer / supplier collaboration. He is also the P&G Know How leader for the Supply Network Operations in P&G’s Alliance with helping provide EY’s clients with access to P&G’s supply chain expertise, practices and experience.
Previous assignments included shelf-to-cash, transportation and warehousing for P&G’s northeast US businesses. He led major acquisition integrations into P&G’s Beauty and Health supply chains. He led large-scale business process transformation and IT projects, including launching Vendor Managed Inventory with major US retailers and implementing MRPII/SAP ERP across Asia. He led supply chain business and supply planning across P&G’s Global Beauty and Health businesses, including overseeing contract manufacturers and supply chain design studies. He was also supply chain leader for P&G’s North America Hair Care business.
Andrew is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, is married, and has four children.
Andrew Byer has 37 years experience in Supply Network Operations at P&G. He has worked in multiple business units and regions, including 12 years based in Asia (Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore.)
He currently is P&G’s Global Supply Network Operations capability leader, with responsibility to develop mastery, drive adoption, ensure governance and lead innovation in work process and tools/systems across COE’s spanning planning, logistics, innovation, and customer / supplier collaboration. He is also the P&G Know How leader for the Supply Network Operations in P&G’s Alliance with helping provide EY’s clients with access to P&G’s supply chain expertise, practices and experience.
Previous assignments included shelf-to-cash, transportation and warehousing for P&G’s northeast US businesses. He led major acquisition integrations into P&G’s Beauty and Health supply chains. He led large-scale business process transformation and IT projects, including launching Vendor Managed Inventory with major US retailers and implementing MRPII/SAP ERP across Asia. He led supply chain business and supply planning across P&G’s Global Beauty and Health businesses, including overseeing contract manufacturers and supply chain design studies. He was also supply chain leader for P&G’s North America Hair Care business.
Andrew is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, is married, and has four children.
Stephanie Cannon
SVP, Operations Excellence & Collaborative Innovation
Pitney-Bowes
Stephanie oversees the Operations Excellence & Collaborative Innovation Group for Global Ecommerce at Pitney Bowes, Inc to accelerate the modernization and expansion of our network and support operational excellence and long-term growth. Prior roles include leading the Operations Practices and Innovation Group, the Automation and Systems Innovation Group, as Director of Operations for Fulfillment Services and as lead for the Industrial Engineering group for fulfillment services.
Previously, she consulted for West Monroe Partners, serving as an SME in operations and engineering strategies and creating operational assessments to provide unique solutions to customers. Stephanie also started her career at UPS, rotating through various roles during her tenure in hub, package, and transportation.
Previously, she consulted for West Monroe Partners, serving as an SME in operations and engineering strategies and creating operational assessments to provide unique solutions to customers. Stephanie also started her career at UPS, rotating through various roles during her tenure in hub, package, and transportation.
Scott DeGroot
VP Global Distribution and Planning
Kimberly-Clark Corporation
Scott is currently the Vice President of Global Distribution and Planning, at Kimberly-Clark Corporation. In this role, Scott and his team are accountable for Planning, S&OP, Customer-facing Logistics, Physical Logistics Operating Excellence, On-Time In-Full and North American Transport. His team delivers our products to our consumers efficiently and effectively, every day, every time, and everywhere.
Prior to this role, Scott was the General Manager of Kimberly-Clark’s Eastern Grocery team in North America. Scott’s accountabilities included driving over $650MM in revenue through a highly engaged team that included Ahold, Wakefern, HEB, Publix, Delhaize and BiLo Holdings. During his 30+ years at Kimberly-Clark, Scott has held ever increasing areas of accountability and leadership including: Director of Supply Chain Strategy; Director of Consumer Planning; Director of Distribution Operations; Director of Transportation Procurement and Analysis; Director of Transportation Operations; and Regional Logistics Leader in Chester, PA, where he led all logistics operations at the largest tissue site in the Kimberly-Clark network.
Scott and his wife Pam live in Knoxville, TN and have 2 children – Henry and George. They enjoy soccer, running, spending time outdoors and traveling to new cities.
Prior to this role, Scott was the General Manager of Kimberly-Clark’s Eastern Grocery team in North America. Scott’s accountabilities included driving over $650MM in revenue through a highly engaged team that included Ahold, Wakefern, HEB, Publix, Delhaize and BiLo Holdings. During his 30+ years at Kimberly-Clark, Scott has held ever increasing areas of accountability and leadership including: Director of Supply Chain Strategy; Director of Consumer Planning; Director of Distribution Operations; Director of Transportation Procurement and Analysis; Director of Transportation Operations; and Regional Logistics Leader in Chester, PA, where he led all logistics operations at the largest tissue site in the Kimberly-Clark network.
Scott and his wife Pam live in Knoxville, TN and have 2 children – Henry and George. They enjoy soccer, running, spending time outdoors and traveling to new cities.
Jamie Deist
VP Warehouse Operations
Cardinal Health at-Home Solutions
As vice president of Warehouse Operations for Cardinal Health at-Home Solutions, Jamie runs day-to-day operations for the entire network of warehouses that service the business. He is also leading the business' multi-year strategy to expand its capacity in support of business growth.
He most recently served as vice president, Operations, Specialty Pharmaceutical Distribution for Cardinal Health. In his 12 years with Cardinal Health, he’s held roles in increased responsibilities across corporate operations and OpEx, including leading Kinray’s operations in New York City. Prior to Cardinal Health, he worked in various functions for The SYGMA Network a division of Sysco Foods and was an engineer for Praxair, Inc.
Jamie has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from The Ohio State University, and a master’s degree in business administration from Ohio Dominican University. He lives in Pickerington, Ohio, with his wife of 19 years, Kristy. In his free time, he enjoys grilling, attending live music concerts and cruising on his motorcycle across the country, weather permitting.
He most recently served as vice president, Operations, Specialty Pharmaceutical Distribution for Cardinal Health. In his 12 years with Cardinal Health, he’s held roles in increased responsibilities across corporate operations and OpEx, including leading Kinray’s operations in New York City. Prior to Cardinal Health, he worked in various functions for The SYGMA Network a division of Sysco Foods and was an engineer for Praxair, Inc.
Jamie has a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from The Ohio State University, and a master’s degree in business administration from Ohio Dominican University. He lives in Pickerington, Ohio, with his wife of 19 years, Kristy. In his free time, he enjoys grilling, attending live music concerts and cruising on his motorcycle across the country, weather permitting.
Jay Koganti
VP Supply Chain COE
Estée Lauder
Jay Koganti has more than 22 years of experience building and transforming complex Global Supply Chains as a source of strategic and competitive advantage for enterprises. Jay’s Professional expertise includes developing global supply chain strategies and Global SC Operating models. Extensive Enterprise Transformations from strategy to Operationalization. Enterprise Value creation by Breakthrough Process innovations, solving complex Supply Chain problems by leveraging the new breed of Digital Technologies by nurturing the partnerships and Technology incubation. Operational experience in Global Supply Chain Planning, Distribution, Integrated Business Planning, Supply Chain Analytics & Intelligence, and Execution for fortune 100 companies.
Jay has a unique vision of improving Operational efficiencies of Global Supply Chains by building next-generation sustainability and social equity practices at its core. Jay is a Thought leader and Keynote speaker for numerous Global Supply Chain leadership gatherings and a leading voice of advocacy for Digital Transformation and Process Innovation in the Global Supply Chain community. Jay has a BS in Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from Harvard Business School in General Management (GMP), APICS & SAP SCM Certifications, and completed Value Chain Transformation Program at Wharton.
Jay has a unique vision of improving Operational efficiencies of Global Supply Chains by building next-generation sustainability and social equity practices at its core. Jay is a Thought leader and Keynote speaker for numerous Global Supply Chain leadership gatherings and a leading voice of advocacy for Digital Transformation and Process Innovation in the Global Supply Chain community. Jay has a BS in Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from Harvard Business School in General Management (GMP), APICS & SAP SCM Certifications, and completed Value Chain Transformation Program at Wharton.
Kevin Kuntz
Sr. VP Logistics & Operations
Gap Inc.
Kevin Kuntz is the Sr. Vice President, Logistics & Operations at Gap Inc., leading global logistics operations for all of Gap Inc.’s Customer Experience Centers, as well as its Customer Contact Centers. With a heavy focus on accelerating automation and transformation, Kevin oversees global processing, fulfillment, and distribution across the company’s entire omnichannel network.
During his 35 years with Gap Inc., Kevin has executed end-to-end start-up operations to launch, expand and transform distribution centers internationally, including consulting on location and architectural design, onboarding and implementing automation capabilities, artificial intelligence and machine learning software, and driving efficiencies for materials handling and inventory management.
Kevin began his career at Gap Inc. at 17 years old as a seasonal merchandise handler at one of the company’s distribution centers. Since then, Kevin has held multiple roles of steadily increasing responsibility and scope within Gap Inc.’s logistics and transportation divisions.
Kevin holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Thomas More University, and he resides in Gallatin, TN, home of one of Gap Inc.’s largest Customer Experience Centers in North America.
During his 35 years with Gap Inc., Kevin has executed end-to-end start-up operations to launch, expand and transform distribution centers internationally, including consulting on location and architectural design, onboarding and implementing automation capabilities, artificial intelligence and machine learning software, and driving efficiencies for materials handling and inventory management.
Kevin began his career at Gap Inc. at 17 years old as a seasonal merchandise handler at one of the company’s distribution centers. Since then, Kevin has held multiple roles of steadily increasing responsibility and scope within Gap Inc.’s logistics and transportation divisions.
Kevin holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Thomas More University, and he resides in Gallatin, TN, home of one of Gap Inc.’s largest Customer Experience Centers in North America.
Josh Lipman
VP Supply Chain Planning
Ferrara Candy Company
Josh Lipman is a VP of Supply Chain Planning at Ferrara Candy Company. He is responsible for supply planning, demand planning, material planning and an integrated seasonal operations team. Before Ferrara, Josh worked at Boston Consulting Group as a consultant working in Food and Beverage and Energy. He grew up in Iowa and lives in Chicago with his wife Elana and children Ezra and Naomi. His favorite candy is Watermelon Laffy Taffy Stretchy Tangy.
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ADVISORY BOARD
Amy T. Augustine
Sr. Dir. Network Supply Chain
U.S. Cellular
Senior Director, Network Supply Chain
Amy Augustine's team is responsible for building the business cases for the corporate strategic projects for U.S. Cellular. She has interest in how 5G technology can transform the future of supply chain. From 2013 until mid-2018, she led the Reverse Logistics team that is responsible for the strategy and execution of the reverse supply chain, including planning, repair of handsets and tablets, and re-commerce of handsets and accessories. Amy has held various roles within supply chain and has worked at U.S. Cellular more than nine years. Earlier in her career, she spent 10 years in the consulting industry working for KPMG, BearingPoint and the Revere Group. Amy earned her MBA in Operations Management and International Business from Loyola University in Chicago and holds a CSCP certification from APICS.
Amy Augustine's team is responsible for building the business cases for the corporate strategic projects for U.S. Cellular. She has interest in how 5G technology can transform the future of supply chain. From 2013 until mid-2018, she led the Reverse Logistics team that is responsible for the strategy and execution of the reverse supply chain, including planning, repair of handsets and tablets, and re-commerce of handsets and accessories. Amy has held various roles within supply chain and has worked at U.S. Cellular more than nine years. Earlier in her career, she spent 10 years in the consulting industry working for KPMG, BearingPoint and the Revere Group. Amy earned her MBA in Operations Management and International Business from Loyola University in Chicago and holds a CSCP certification from APICS.
Peter Bolstorff
EVP Corporate Development
ASCM
Executive Vice President, Corporate Development
eter Bolstorff oversees ASCM corporate impact programs that include transformation, talent development, sustainability, and community driven public health. Peter, the author of Supply Chain Excellence: A Handbook for Dramatic Improvement Using the SCOR Model, brings over 25 years of experience in supply chain and operations management to the position. He joined ASCM as the Executive Director to lead the APICS, Supply Chain Council merger. Prior to joining ASCM, Bolstorff was the founding principal of SCE Limited, a consulting firm focused on providing supply chain program management and SCOR-based education to supply chain executives and their global teams. Bolstorff also held supply chain and operations management leadership roles at 3M and Imation and has been a lifelong volunteer within the SCOR community. He received his master’s degree in industrial education from the University of Minnesota and Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, education, and psychology from St. Olaf College.
eter Bolstorff oversees ASCM corporate impact programs that include transformation, talent development, sustainability, and community driven public health. Peter, the author of Supply Chain Excellence: A Handbook for Dramatic Improvement Using the SCOR Model, brings over 25 years of experience in supply chain and operations management to the position. He joined ASCM as the Executive Director to lead the APICS, Supply Chain Council merger. Prior to joining ASCM, Bolstorff was the founding principal of SCE Limited, a consulting firm focused on providing supply chain program management and SCOR-based education to supply chain executives and their global teams. Bolstorff also held supply chain and operations management leadership roles at 3M and Imation and has been a lifelong volunteer within the SCOR community. He received his master’s degree in industrial education from the University of Minnesota and Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, education, and psychology from St. Olaf College.
Andrew Byer
Sr. Dir., Global Supply Network Ops.
Procter & Gamble
Senior Director, Global Supply Network Operations
Andrew Byer has 37 years experience in Supply Network Operations at P&G. He has worked in multiple business units and regions, including 12 years based in Asia (Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore.)
He currently is P&G’s Global Supply Network Operations capability leader, with responsibility to develop mastery, drive adoption, ensure governance and lead innovation in work process and tools/systems across COE’s spanning planning, logistics, innovation, and customer / supplier collaboration. He is also the P&G Know How leader for the Supply Network Operations in P&G’s Alliance with helping provide EY’s clients with access to P&G’s supply chain expertise, practices and experience.
Previous assignments included shelf-to-cash, transportation and warehousing for P&G’s northeast US businesses. He led major acquisition integrations into P&G’s Beauty and Health supply chains. He led large-scale business process transformation and IT projects, including launching Vendor Managed Inventory with major US retailers and implementing MRPII/SAP ERP across Asia. He led supply chain business and supply planning across P&G’s Global Beauty and Health businesses, including overseeing contract manufacturers and supply chain design studies. He was also supply chain leader for P&G’s North America Hair Care business.
Andrew is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, is married, and has four children.
Andrew Byer has 37 years experience in Supply Network Operations at P&G. He has worked in multiple business units and regions, including 12 years based in Asia (Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore.)
He currently is P&G’s Global Supply Network Operations capability leader, with responsibility to develop mastery, drive adoption, ensure governance and lead innovation in work process and tools/systems across COE’s spanning planning, logistics, innovation, and customer / supplier collaboration. He is also the P&G Know How leader for the Supply Network Operations in P&G’s Alliance with helping provide EY’s clients with access to P&G’s supply chain expertise, practices and experience.
Previous assignments included shelf-to-cash, transportation and warehousing for P&G’s northeast US businesses. He led major acquisition integrations into P&G’s Beauty and Health supply chains. He led large-scale business process transformation and IT projects, including launching Vendor Managed Inventory with major US retailers and implementing MRPII/SAP ERP across Asia. He led supply chain business and supply planning across P&G’s Global Beauty and Health businesses, including overseeing contract manufacturers and supply chain design studies. He was also supply chain leader for P&G’s North America Hair Care business.
Andrew is a graduate of Vanderbilt University. He lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, is married, and has four children.
Karoline Dygas
VP, CPO
Nordstrom
Vice President, Strategic Sourcing & Procurement, CPO
Karoline Dygas is Nordstrom’s Vice President and CPO leading Strategic Sourcing and Procurement for all non-merchandise spend. She joined Nordstrom in April 2019 and is responsible for leading a holistic strategic sourcing transformation to provide a new procurement service delivery model that will positively impact the customer experience and company financial performance.
Prior to joining Nordstrom, she was Starbucks Corp Vice President leading Global Sourcing, Store Development and Siren Retail Supply Chains. She was part of Starbucks Global Supply Chain leadership team and was accountable for sourcing of all capital and commercial equipment, FFE, R&M and QA services, as well as leading the global end-to-end supply chains for Store Development and Siren Retail (Starbucks Roastery & Reserve and Princi brands).
Before joining Starbucks, Karoline was the Senior Director Strategic Sourcing at Walgreens based in Deerfield, Illinois where she was responsible for $1.5B annual spend across multiple categories supporting Store Development, Energy & Environmental Sustainability, and Marketing.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and later completed her dual MBA from both Purdue University and ESCP-EAP European School of Management in Paris, France.
She lives in Issaquah, WA with her husband Josh, two children Morgan (14) and Max (12), and their Samoyed-Husky rescue dog named Yeti.
Karoline Dygas is Nordstrom’s Vice President and CPO leading Strategic Sourcing and Procurement for all non-merchandise spend. She joined Nordstrom in April 2019 and is responsible for leading a holistic strategic sourcing transformation to provide a new procurement service delivery model that will positively impact the customer experience and company financial performance.
Prior to joining Nordstrom, she was Starbucks Corp Vice President leading Global Sourcing, Store Development and Siren Retail Supply Chains. She was part of Starbucks Global Supply Chain leadership team and was accountable for sourcing of all capital and commercial equipment, FFE, R&M and QA services, as well as leading the global end-to-end supply chains for Store Development and Siren Retail (Starbucks Roastery & Reserve and Princi brands).
Before joining Starbucks, Karoline was the Senior Director Strategic Sourcing at Walgreens based in Deerfield, Illinois where she was responsible for $1.5B annual spend across multiple categories supporting Store Development, Energy & Environmental Sustainability, and Marketing.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and later completed her dual MBA from both Purdue University and ESCP-EAP European School of Management in Paris, France.
She lives in Issaquah, WA with her husband Josh, two children Morgan (14) and Max (12), and their Samoyed-Husky rescue dog named Yeti.
Arun Kochar
Partner
AT Kearney
Arun is a Partner in Kearney’s Strategic Operations Practice. He has twenty years of C-suite, Board & senior management consulting experience across Americas, Europe, and Asia. His experience covers manufacturers, distributors and retailers in multiple industries including Consumer Packaged Goods, Retail, and Process Industries.
Arun’s advisory work focuses on maximizing enterprise value of global businesses through step changes in organic and M&A-led P&L performance. He is known for expertise in Large-scale Transformations, M&A, Operating Model Design, Route-to-market Strategy, End-to-End Supply Chain Improvement, Zero-based Budgeting, Design for Value & Sustainability, and Digital Business Enablement. He routinely publishes and speaks on bleeding-edge operations-related topics on Ivey Business Journal, SCMR, Food & Beverage Magazine, Supply & Demand Chain Executive, Wine & Spirits Daily, APICS, CSCMP, IndustryWeek, and other media outlets.
Arun holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, an MEM in Operations and MS in Transportation Engineering from the McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University, and a BTech in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Arun’s advisory work focuses on maximizing enterprise value of global businesses through step changes in organic and M&A-led P&L performance. He is known for expertise in Large-scale Transformations, M&A, Operating Model Design, Route-to-market Strategy, End-to-End Supply Chain Improvement, Zero-based Budgeting, Design for Value & Sustainability, and Digital Business Enablement. He routinely publishes and speaks on bleeding-edge operations-related topics on Ivey Business Journal, SCMR, Food & Beverage Magazine, Supply & Demand Chain Executive, Wine & Spirits Daily, APICS, CSCMP, IndustryWeek, and other media outlets.
Arun holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, an MEM in Operations and MS in Transportation Engineering from the McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern University, and a BTech in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Jay Koganti
VP Supply Chain COE
Estée Lauder
Vice President – Supply Chain COE
Jay Koganti has more than 22 years of experience building and transforming complex Global Supply Chains as a source of strategic and competitive advantage for enterprises. Jay’s Professional expertise includes developing global supply chain strategies and Global SC Operating models. Extensive Enterprise Transformations from strategy to Operationalization. Enterprise Value creation by Breakthrough Process innovations, solving complex Supply Chain problems by leveraging the new breed of Digital Technologies by nurturing the partnerships and Technology incubation. Operational experience in Global Supply Chain Planning, Distribution, Integrated Business Planning, Supply Chain Analytics & Intelligence, and Execution for fortune 100 companies.
Jay has a unique vision of improving Operational efficiencies of Global Supply Chains by building next-generation sustainability and social equity practices at its core. Jay is a Thought leader and Keynote speaker for numerous Global Supply Chain leadership gatherings and a leading voice of advocacy for Digital Transformation and Process Innovation in the Global Supply Chain community. Jay has a BS in Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from Harvard Business School in General Management (GMP), APICS & SAP SCM Certifications, and completed Value Chain Transformation Program at Wharton.
Jay Koganti has more than 22 years of experience building and transforming complex Global Supply Chains as a source of strategic and competitive advantage for enterprises. Jay’s Professional expertise includes developing global supply chain strategies and Global SC Operating models. Extensive Enterprise Transformations from strategy to Operationalization. Enterprise Value creation by Breakthrough Process innovations, solving complex Supply Chain problems by leveraging the new breed of Digital Technologies by nurturing the partnerships and Technology incubation. Operational experience in Global Supply Chain Planning, Distribution, Integrated Business Planning, Supply Chain Analytics & Intelligence, and Execution for fortune 100 companies.
Jay has a unique vision of improving Operational efficiencies of Global Supply Chains by building next-generation sustainability and social equity practices at its core. Jay is a Thought leader and Keynote speaker for numerous Global Supply Chain leadership gatherings and a leading voice of advocacy for Digital Transformation and Process Innovation in the Global Supply Chain community. Jay has a BS in Metallurgical Engineering and graduated from Harvard Business School in General Management (GMP), APICS & SAP SCM Certifications, and completed Value Chain Transformation Program at Wharton.
Daren J. Mallard
Sr. Manager, Marketing Strategy
Cisco
Senior Manager, Marketing Strategy – Global Logistics Organization
Visionary. Focused. Collaborative. Action-Oriented. Adaptive. Impactful. Reflective. These are a few elements of my professional value proposition. My name is Daren Mallard, and my goal is to see not only what will make Cisco successful today...but also, to focus on achieving greater success in the future.
Currently, I develop Marketing Strategy for Cisco's Global Logistics organization, within Supply Chain Operations. In addition to managing and transporting tens of billions of dollars’ of Cisco product, we're growing our external forward logistics services by more than 10% annually...while leveraging reverse logistics to facilitate Cisco's Circular Economy efforts. And, we run two technology innovation centers which develop solutions that digitize and optimize supply chain operations. In my role, I collaborate with executives, account teams, customers, and partners, to develop initiatives & programs that better position and improve the overall supply chain experience.
I've been with Cisco for fourteen years, and my prior roles include managing Product Marketing, Technical Marketing, & Sales Operations, within the video business. Before my previous company, Scientific-Atlanta, was acquired by Cisco, I had roles managing Investor Relations & Financial Analysis...and began my career journey as a CPA with Ernst & Young (EY). I've proudly served my country as a member of the U.S. Army, and am a Morehouse College alumnus. I’m on the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Innovation & Technology Policy Committee, the Next-Gen Supply Chain Conference Advisory Board, and previously served on local chapters of CTAM, NAMIC, and NABA...for which I was twice elected Board President. Additionally, I had the distinction of being selected to, and attending the Harvard Business School Cable Executive Management Program, sponsored by the CTAM Educational Foundation.
Within the community, I've been a Youth Ministry Leader, and led mentoring programs for Junior Achievement Fellows & the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology...teaching business skills, financial principles and entrepreneurship. Promoting financial literacy is a passion, and I enjoy teaching my nephews (aged 12 and 5) and godson (age 15) how to invest their time and resources, so that they can achieve a measure of financial independence. In addition, I enjoy spending time & traveling the world with my wife, rooting for NY sports teams that consistently disappoint, and thinking of new ways in which I can make a positive impact on the community & the world.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Daren_M
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Daren_MD
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daren-mallard-8525ab24
Visionary. Focused. Collaborative. Action-Oriented. Adaptive. Impactful. Reflective. These are a few elements of my professional value proposition. My name is Daren Mallard, and my goal is to see not only what will make Cisco successful today...but also, to focus on achieving greater success in the future.
Currently, I develop Marketing Strategy for Cisco's Global Logistics organization, within Supply Chain Operations. In addition to managing and transporting tens of billions of dollars’ of Cisco product, we're growing our external forward logistics services by more than 10% annually...while leveraging reverse logistics to facilitate Cisco's Circular Economy efforts. And, we run two technology innovation centers which develop solutions that digitize and optimize supply chain operations. In my role, I collaborate with executives, account teams, customers, and partners, to develop initiatives & programs that better position and improve the overall supply chain experience.
I've been with Cisco for fourteen years, and my prior roles include managing Product Marketing, Technical Marketing, & Sales Operations, within the video business. Before my previous company, Scientific-Atlanta, was acquired by Cisco, I had roles managing Investor Relations & Financial Analysis...and began my career journey as a CPA with Ernst & Young (EY). I've proudly served my country as a member of the U.S. Army, and am a Morehouse College alumnus. I’m on the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Innovation & Technology Policy Committee, the Next-Gen Supply Chain Conference Advisory Board, and previously served on local chapters of CTAM, NAMIC, and NABA...for which I was twice elected Board President. Additionally, I had the distinction of being selected to, and attending the Harvard Business School Cable Executive Management Program, sponsored by the CTAM Educational Foundation.
Within the community, I've been a Youth Ministry Leader, and led mentoring programs for Junior Achievement Fellows & the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science & Technology...teaching business skills, financial principles and entrepreneurship. Promoting financial literacy is a passion, and I enjoy teaching my nephews (aged 12 and 5) and godson (age 15) how to invest their time and resources, so that they can achieve a measure of financial independence. In addition, I enjoy spending time & traveling the world with my wife, rooting for NY sports teams that consistently disappoint, and thinking of new ways in which I can make a positive impact on the community & the world.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Daren_M
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Daren_MD
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daren-mallard-8525ab24
Shekar Natarajan
EVP, Chief SCO
AEO Inc.
Executive Vice President – Chief Supply Chain Officer
Shekar Natarajan is a Harvard Business School alum with an industrial engineering background and insatiable appetite for innovation. Coupled with his innate entrepreneurial acumen and strategic eye for opportunity, Shekar’s track record for transformation among top Fortune 100 companies has consistently left a lasting impact across numerous industries.
Throughout his 20-year career, Shekar has created an industry-standard system for last-mile beverage delivery; built and scaled grocery-shopping operations now worth more than $9 billion; developed methodologies followed by the White House and FEMA; and enhanced theme-park visitor experience through wearable RFID technology. In December 2018, Shekar joined American Eagle Outfitters (AEO, Inc.) as SVP Global Supply Chain, Logistics & Services and was quickly entrusted with reimagining the retailer’s traditional supply chain network. Ultimately pioneering an open supply chain business model, Shekar now leads a team of 500 staff and 10,000 field associates in his current role as EVP – Chief Supply Chain Officer.
Recognized worldwide for his industry contributions, Shekar’s diversified portfolio includes more than 300 filed and 75 awarded patents and three books translated in 11 languages.
Shekar Natarajan is a Harvard Business School alum with an industrial engineering background and insatiable appetite for innovation. Coupled with his innate entrepreneurial acumen and strategic eye for opportunity, Shekar’s track record for transformation among top Fortune 100 companies has consistently left a lasting impact across numerous industries.
Throughout his 20-year career, Shekar has created an industry-standard system for last-mile beverage delivery; built and scaled grocery-shopping operations now worth more than $9 billion; developed methodologies followed by the White House and FEMA; and enhanced theme-park visitor experience through wearable RFID technology. In December 2018, Shekar joined American Eagle Outfitters (AEO, Inc.) as SVP Global Supply Chain, Logistics & Services and was quickly entrusted with reimagining the retailer’s traditional supply chain network. Ultimately pioneering an open supply chain business model, Shekar now leads a team of 500 staff and 10,000 field associates in his current role as EVP – Chief Supply Chain Officer.
Recognized worldwide for his industry contributions, Shekar’s diversified portfolio includes more than 300 filed and 75 awarded patents and three books translated in 11 languages.
John Santagate
VP Robotics
Körber Supply Chain Software
Vice President of Robotics
John Santagate is the Vice President of Robotics at Körber Supply Chain. In this role, John is responsible for defining and executing the autonomous mobile robot strategy for Körber Supply Chain North America. Prior to joining Körber, John was a Research Director for Robotics at IDC where he provided market trends and forecasts for service robotics, business process evolution through the use of service robots, and the integration of robotics into business processes and business IT architecture. John has an MBA from Rutgers with a concentration in Supply Chain Management and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts with dual concentrations in Finance and Management. In addition to serving as the VP of Robotics at Körber, John is an adjunct instructor at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell teaching a course in supply chain and logistics.
https://www.koerber-supplychain-software.com/en
John Santagate is the Vice President of Robotics at Körber Supply Chain. In this role, John is responsible for defining and executing the autonomous mobile robot strategy for Körber Supply Chain North America. Prior to joining Körber, John was a Research Director for Robotics at IDC where he provided market trends and forecasts for service robotics, business process evolution through the use of service robots, and the integration of robotics into business processes and business IT architecture. John has an MBA from Rutgers with a concentration in Supply Chain Management and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts with dual concentrations in Finance and Management. In addition to serving as the VP of Robotics at Körber, John is an adjunct instructor at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell teaching a course in supply chain and logistics.
https://www.koerber-supplychain-software.com/en
Alison Seward
Exec. Dir., Manufacturing Quality
G.E. Appliances a Haier Company
Executive Director – Manufacturing Quality
Alison Seward has business-wide responsibility for all aspects of quality costs, both internally and externally for all GE Appliances manufacturing sites and Mabe affiliates. By owning the strategy and execution for quality, she leads the team to ensure that GE Appliances meets and exceeds owners’ expectations for quality, delivering a world class ownership experience.
Previous roles from her 20-year career with GE Appliances include leadership positions in Product Cost & Design Quality, Cost-Out Execution, New Products Execution and Design Manager as well as Program Senior Director for an $80M investment in Dishwasher that launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alison began her career in 2001 as a co-op in Supply Chain and is an Operations Management Leadership Program graduate with experience in Material Control, Plant Operations, Supplier Quality and Manufacturing Quality.
Alison lives in Louisville, KY with her husband and two young daughters, where they are active in their local church. She is focused on wellness with frequent yoga and ballet classes and has an affinity for plant-based meals. Alison holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Louisville.
Alison Seward has business-wide responsibility for all aspects of quality costs, both internally and externally for all GE Appliances manufacturing sites and Mabe affiliates. By owning the strategy and execution for quality, she leads the team to ensure that GE Appliances meets and exceeds owners’ expectations for quality, delivering a world class ownership experience.
Previous roles from her 20-year career with GE Appliances include leadership positions in Product Cost & Design Quality, Cost-Out Execution, New Products Execution and Design Manager as well as Program Senior Director for an $80M investment in Dishwasher that launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alison began her career in 2001 as a co-op in Supply Chain and is an Operations Management Leadership Program graduate with experience in Material Control, Plant Operations, Supplier Quality and Manufacturing Quality.
Alison lives in Louisville, KY with her husband and two young daughters, where they are active in their local church. She is focused on wellness with frequent yoga and ballet classes and has an affinity for plant-based meals. Alison holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Louisville.
Steve Simmerman
Head of Global Alliances
Locus Robotics
Head of Global Alliances
Steve Simmerman is the Head of Global Alliances at Locus Robotics. Simmerman has more than 30 years of experience in the supply chain industry including software, consulting, and material handling. He has focused his efforts on working with clients to achieve high performance supply chain results through partnerships and creative solutions. He is a member of CSCMP, WERC, and MHI and is a regular contributor to several industry publications and events. Simmerman holds his undergraduate and MBA degrees from The University of Notre Dame.
Steve Simmerman is the Head of Global Alliances at Locus Robotics. Simmerman has more than 30 years of experience in the supply chain industry including software, consulting, and material handling. He has focused his efforts on working with clients to achieve high performance supply chain results through partnerships and creative solutions. He is a member of CSCMP, WERC, and MHI and is a regular contributor to several industry publications and events. Simmerman holds his undergraduate and MBA degrees from The University of Notre Dame.
Tom Ward
A.I. Project Leader
IBM
A.I. Project Leader
Tom Ward is currently an A.I. Project Lead within the Chief Data Officer (CDO) organization. In this capacity, he leads the global development and deployment of cloud, AI and quantum projects across the enterprise. Tom has led supply chain cloud projects over the past twelve years. For the past eight years, Tom has led the implementation of several Watson applications including Operations Risk Insights. He has been a featured supply chain conference speaker and published author in several magazines. Tom is an IBM Academy of Technology Member and one of 25 certified Supply Chain Management Professional – Consultants, globally within IBM. He has over 30 years of technical leadership experience with IBM in many facets of the Supply Chain, Procurement, Enterprise and Operations Services. Tom has recently been certified as an IBM Quantum Ambassador. Tom has a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He lives in Highland, New York.
Tom Ward is currently an A.I. Project Lead within the Chief Data Officer (CDO) organization. In this capacity, he leads the global development and deployment of cloud, AI and quantum projects across the enterprise. Tom has led supply chain cloud projects over the past twelve years. For the past eight years, Tom has led the implementation of several Watson applications including Operations Risk Insights. He has been a featured supply chain conference speaker and published author in several magazines. Tom is an IBM Academy of Technology Member and one of 25 certified Supply Chain Management Professional – Consultants, globally within IBM. He has over 30 years of technical leadership experience with IBM in many facets of the Supply Chain, Procurement, Enterprise and Operations Services. Tom has recently been certified as an IBM Quantum Ambassador. Tom has a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He lives in Highland, New York.
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