Leaders in Supply Chain and Logistics Podcast

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Luca Labriola, Chief Operations Officer at Aalberts, reflects on his journey from the shop floor to leading global supply chain transformations. He played a key role in building an end-to-end supply chain model that improved delivery performance and reduced inventory, and today he is strengthening supply chain and procurement capabilities while shaping the Aalberts Production System to drive long-term operational discipline. Luca also shares his leadership philosophy: make decisions with imperfect data, embrace challenging assignments, seek global exposure, and view leadership not as hierarchy, but as growth, guidance, and service. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4hbidqo Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Steffen Lang runs operations for one of the world’s most impactful pharma giants, Novartis, leading over 20,000 associates globally. He started in R&D and now oversees the delivery of life-saving medicines at near-perfect service levels. In this episode, we explored how he built a product-centered, resilient supply network, embraced AI in manufacturing, and tackled the real-time complexity of personalized therapies. We dive deep into leadership, dual supply chain strategies, and how a "never settle" mindset transforms global healthcare. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 X: https://bit.ly/3J4Wt35 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4hbidqo Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Karin Shanahan, EVP and Chief Supply Chain & Operations Officer at Bristol Myers Squibb, shares how she led a full-scale reboot of the company’s global operating model across 11,000 people in 80 markets. From Excel chaos and post-acquisition silos to a connected, data-led, and transparent supply chain, Karin walks through the bold decisions that made it happen. She breaks down how telling the hard truths, setting new cultural norms, and earning cross-functional trust turned dysfunction into strategy. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 X: https://bit.ly/3J4Wt35 Linkedin: https://bit.ly/4hbidqo Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Cliff Henson leads Microsoft’s Cloud Supply Chain and Engineering, powering Azure, Microsoft 365, and Copilot across 400+ data centers globally. I sat down with Cliff to discuss how he helped pivot Microsoft from a “buy” to a “make” model, turning the cloud supply chain from a cost center into a strategic growth engine. We explore how his team implemented 26 AI agents, dramatically reducing headcount while doubling output. He also shared the blueprint for lean process, talent restructuring, and scaling AI adoption without the buzzwords, just real-world execution at enterprise scale. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 X: https://bit.ly/3J4Wt35 Linkedin: https://bit.ly/4hbidqo Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Duncan Angove, CEO of Blue Yonder, joins me to unpack the seismic shifts in supply chain driven by AI, data, and imagination. From powering $25 billion in machine workloads daily to orchestrating global operations for the world’s largest brands, Duncan reveals how Blue Yonder’s platform is reshaping the industry. We explore AI ethics, change management, platformization, and what supply chains might look like in a decade, fueled not just by tech, but by societal transformation. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 X: https://bit.ly/3J4Wt35 Linkedin: https://bit.ly/4hbidqo Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Susanne Waidzunas has spent over 25 years shaping one of the most intricate global supply chains on the planet at IKEA. From her early days managing suppliers in the Baltics to leading a sweeping digital and sustainability transformation, Susanne offers a rare look inside IKEA’s end-to-end strategy. We explore how her team is decoupling growth from material usage, investing in automation to boost resilience, and building a culture of collaborative leadership to future-proof operations. A masterclass in supply chain leadership and transformation. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Fei Yu* I sat down with Arne Flemming, Senior Vice President of Corporate Supply Chain Management and Global Logistics Services at Bosch, a €90B global powerhouse operating across mobility, industrial tech, home appliances, and more. Arne leads supply chain operations impacting 30,000+ associates and 230 plants worldwide. We discuss his nontraditional path from finance into supply chain, his philosophy of calm yet decisive leadership, and how Bosch stays agile after 140 years of history. We also delved into transformation projects, digitalization trends, and the skills future leaders will need to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven, customer-centric environment. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Jim Tobojka is the Chief Operations Officer at TE Connectivity, a USD 16B industrial tech powerhouse whose products power everything from EVs to life-saving devices. We dived into Jim’s bold career path, from turning around plants at age 24 to scaling TE’s logistics network through a transformative initiative called Integrated Operations Network or ION. We explored how he slashed logistics costs by over 60%, built an AI strategy with real ROI, and created a playbook for operational excellence. Themes include procurement transformation, end-to-end thinking, digital enablement, and talent-driven leadership. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Fei Yu* Manuel Wildberger leads European operations at Givaudan, a global flavor and fragrance giant with 7.4B Swiss Francs in sales and customers across 150 countries. I spoke with Manuel about how he manages a 800M Swiss Francs supply chain across seven plants and five countries while balancing hyper-customization, precision, and resilience. We explore how Givaudan stays agile amid raw material shocks, geopolitical complexity, and regulatory hurdles, while integrating AI, digitalization, and sustainability into daily operations. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, we dive into one of the most consequential supply chain narratives of our time: how Apple became the single largest private contributor to China’s tech rise. Patrick McGee, a longtime Financial Times reporter and author of Apple in China, joins me to unravel the $55B-a-year investments, the Foxconn partnership that transformed Shenzhen, and why Apple today is more than just a tech company, but also a geopolitical force. We explore themes of industrial statecraft, shareholder capitalism, and how Apple’s operations shaped an entire nation’s industrial future. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Pier Luigi Sigismondi helped build Unilever’s supply chain into a global benchmark, then pivoted to become a sought-after board member across three continents. In this episode, we explored his remarkable journey from Latin America to C-suites and boardrooms, and how a mindset rooted in humility, ambition, and adaptability shaped every chapter. We unpacked the ‘GAP’ leadership framework, his transition to non-executive life, and why empowerment, self-awareness, and authenticity are non-negotiables for sustainable leadership. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Stéphanie Moles-Rota* In this compelling episode, I interviewed Ruth Beadle, the Head of Supply Chain at Sanofi, where we talked about her transformative leadership journey across various industries and geographies. Ruth shared pivotal moments that shaped her career, the challenges of leading large-scale ERP and AI-driven initiatives, and the human impact behind pharmaceutical logistics. Listeners will gain insights into how Sanofi evolved its supply chain to support innovation, agility, and patient-centered service while navigating change at scale. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* Unilever is turning its iconic ice cream business, home to Magnum and Ben & Jerry’s, into a standalone powerhouse. What does it really take to spin off an €8.5B global business? Sandeep Desai, Chief Supply Chain Officer of Unilever Ice Cream, takes us inside the transformation. From leading 9,000+ employees across 38 factories and 130 warehouses, to managing the emotional and operational shift of a corporate breakup, Sandeep shares the raw realities of change at scale. We talk leadership, legacy, and how to navigate disruption without losing your team, or your soul. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, I interviewed Brian Nemeth, Managing Director at AlixPartners, where we talked about the ripple effects of tariffs on global supply chains. We dived into real-world case studies, the resurgence of the bullwhip effect, and the strategic decisions supply chain leaders must make under pressure. Brian shared his on-the-ground experience helping major companies react and adapt quickly to uncertainty, offering actionable insights on scenario planning, automation, and global sourcing diversification. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Thomas Berden, COO of VAT Group where we discussed VAT’s strategy of staying ahead of the curve, investing in capacities and capabilities, and maintaining a flexible cost model with a 25% temporary workforce. Thomas emphasizes the importance of customer focus, technology innovation, and a decentralized quality organization. He also highlights the challenges of managing a global footprint and the need for resilience and speed in the semiconductor industry. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Victor Shevtsov, Executive Vice President Supply Chain and a Member of the Executive Committee at The Carlsberg Group. We discussed Carlsberg's significant health and safety achievements, including zero life-changing accidents, a 10% reduction in lost time accidents, and a 15% drop in accident rates. Victor shared Carlsberg's sustainability efforts, such as reducing energy and water consumption by 20% and CO2 emissions by 15%. He also mentioned the acquisition of Britvic to expand Carlsberg's product portfolio. He emphasized the importance of a diverse, adaptable team, and continuous learning in supply chain leadership. We also discussed Carlsberg's new brewery in China, equipped with advanced sustainability technologies, which proves their commitment to environmental responsibility and safety for their employees. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Fei Yu* In this episode, I interviewed Eduardo Bachiega, the Chief Supply Chain Officer at Nomad Foods. We discussed his journey and the company’s growth. Nomad Foods, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, has integrated brands like Birds Eye, Igloo, and Findus and has grown its revenue from €1 billion to nearly €3 billion. Eduardo emphasizes the importance of people, innovation, and sustainability. He discussed the challenges of integrating acquisitions, balancing innovation, cost efficiency, and resilience, and the need for leadership alignment. He also highlighted the importance of attracting and retaining talent, advocating for a risk-taking mindset and continuous learning. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

What an incredible journey this season has been! 200 Episodes! Over the past 28 episodes of 2024, we’ve had the privilege of hearing from some of the greatest minds in the supply chain and logistics industry. Together, we have discussed some of the major trends, learned from inspiring leaders, and explored practical ways to navigate this ever-changing industry and the new reality that we live in today. As we wrap up Season 1, we just want to say thank you to all the guests for their wisdom and our listeners for their continuous support! This is just the beginning and we will be back next year for another season of new insights, bigger conversations, and even deeper dives into the world of supply chain and logistics. Stay tuned! Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Stéphanie Moles-Rota* In this episode, I am joined by Karen-Marie Kalthom, Chief Integrated Supply Chain Officer and Member of the Executive Committee at AkzoNobel. Karen-Marie shared with me her career journey, emphasizing some of the key inflection points that helped her become the leader she is today, including her transition from procurement to broader supply chain roles and the challenges she faced. She also shared some of the sustainability efforts within AkzoNobel, specifically on collaborating with suppliers and customers to achieve their target. She stressed the importance of diversity, mentorship, and networking in her career progression and advised young professionals to seek new challenges and opportunities for growth and to have an end-to-end perspective. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd

*Hosted by Radu Palamariu* In this episode, I interviewed Vikram Agarwal, Danone's Chief Operations Officer. Vikram provided an overview of Danone's global supply chain, which spans 55 countries and 48,000 employees and integrates economic growth with social responsibility. As well as shared his career journey and the strategic role of supply chains in driving business value. Vikram outlines Danone’s approach to balancing short-term challenges with long-term vision using the 4C framework: Customer Centricity, Cost Competitiveness, Cash Efficiency, and Carbon Reduction. He shares how these strategies have improved customer service and sustainable growth. He also emphasizes the importance of authentic leadership and building organizational capabilities. Vikram offers advice for young supply chain professionals, highlighting the need to focus on creating business value and inspiring teams. Discover more details here. Follow us on: Instagram: http://bit.ly/2Wba8v7 Twitter: http://bit.ly/2WeulzX Linkedin: http://bit.ly/2w9YSQX Facebook: http://bit.ly/2HtryLd