Supply Chain Leadership: How to Be an Effective Manager in 2024
The business environment in 2024 is changing constantly – and that dynamic landscape means effective supply chain management is more crucial than ever. Leaders must be equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities.
Recently, Kirsten Austin, President and CEO of DCSC, Inc., a software developer of shipping and supply chain solutions for distributors and manufacturers, facilitated a #USAMfgHour chat on X about what support supply chain leaders need to effectively do their jobs and lead their teams, including essential qualities, technologies, and strategies.
The Personal Impact of Leaders
The chat began with participants sharing stories of leaders who had significantly impacted their personal or professional growth. The responses primarily fell into one of two groups: family members or current bosses.
“Kinda cliche, but my dad,” said real estate agent Steve Chin of Steve and April. “Being a kid to Asian parents, there’s lots of pressure, but my dad never pressured me into making choices based upon parental expectations. He always wanted me to find out what I’m really good at & like doing and take that path.”
“My dad, T. Lynn Packer,” commented Nigel T. Packer of PelaTis Online. “He said to me ‘If I can give you one thing let it be enthusiasm for life.’ He did that and much more.”
“There are too many to mention for different life’s mini ‘centers’ and phases,” noted Ruby Rusine of Social Success Marketing. “For tenacity, I gotta say my husband.”
“@ljhighby [Lori Highby, CEO and Founder of Keystone Click] is a compassionate leader who loves to share her knowledge!” enthused Whitney Koch of Keystone Click.
“Most definitely I would say my current boss @kartsounes [Scott Kartsounes] with @MfrsNews!” exclaimed Kati “The Manufacturing Hypegirl” McDermith of Manufacturers’ News. Inc. “So thankful for his leadership and support for so long!”
“A good boss is a great blessing, for sure,” added Rusine in response.
Other leaders included those who taught practical lessons.
“Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, for teaching negotiating skills I use all the time,” said Raven. “Never Split the Difference is his book on the [persuasion] techniques he advocates.”
“Deanna Daughttee taught me about mastering the sales cycle,” said Rick Gunnarson of DCSC, Inc.
Before moving the discussion on to supply chain management, host Austin shared which leader had the greatest impact on her.
“I had a teacher in 3rd grade named Ms. Fillmore,” Austin said. “She was from Texas, beautiful and brilliant. Kids made fun of me because I wore glasses and was newer to my city. Mrs. Fillmore told me daily, ‘You’re as beautiful as a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader, and you are going to be successful in whatever you do.’”
Understanding Supply Chain Management
The discussion then shifted gears to supply chain management, starting with defining the term without the aid of Google or any other online resources.
“I’d have to guess, but I’d say having either control or some input over the supply chain of your products,” supposed Chin. “From when a product is produced, and ending when delivered to a client.”
“Supply chain management has to do with locating, building, and maintaining relationships with your various vendors to ensure you have all the components necessary to complete work on time,” stated Koch.
“Managing the supply of product to enable you to run a smooth production facility or warehouse. To be able to deliver when needed to the customer,” Packer asserted.
According to host Austin, supply chain management includes managing “the entire production flow of goods or services—from the raw components to final product delivery to consumers. It encompasses everything from managing inventory to purchasing, shipping, storage, and fulfillment.”
Qualities of an Effective Supply Chain Manager
To bridge the first and second questions, host Austin then asked what qualities a good Supply Chain Manager must have. The consensus was clear: effective supply chain managers need a blend of technical skills and personal attributes to navigate the complexities of their roles successfully.
“Good at crisis management, creative sourcing and negotiating?” supposed Raven.
In response to Raven, host Austin commented: “That is an amazing answer. You can’t run scared when you have a team to lead and you also need to keep a cool head if possible.”
“Multi-tasker for sure!” McDermith exclaimed. “Analytical and calm under pressure!”
“Engaged and aware,” added Gunnarson.
“From what I understand, supply chain can be erratic, so would agility and flexibility count?” Rusine wondered.
“Absolutely!” host Austin confirmed.
“Ooh, good call, Ruby!” Koch replied to Rusine.
“Thanks Whit,” responded Rusine. “It’s a good thing that we have tools now to predict breakdowns, right? Fascinating times.”
“For sure!” agreed Koch. “Being able to forecast has to help with preparing to pivot.”
“Helicopter vision so he can see where things could go wrong and be familiar with a wide range of tools to determine failure points in the supply chain so alternates can be arranged to mitigate issues,” detailed Packer.
“Transparency, authenticity, honesty, integrity, great communication/relationship skills, and excellent planning and project management abilities,” Koch reasoned.
Host Austin concurred with Koch, responding, “Beautiful Whitney! I agree!”
“Loved it that you mentioned integrity,” Rusine replied to Koch.
“Me too!” host Austin declared. “Honesty is always the best policy; no one likes working with the opposite. There was a time long ago when contracts barely existed, and your word was everything.”
From her experience in supply chain, host Austin shared the qualities she believes a good supply chain manager should have, including “needs to think out of the box, empower people, implement change, cut through red tape, fight for their team, and unite people!” She also shared this link to an episode of Andrew Stoute’s Let’s Be Diverse podcast about supply chain management for participants to go even deeper into this aspect of the conversation.
Essential Technologies for Supply Chain Leaders
People are the most critical piece of the supply chain puzzle. Perhaps the next most critical piece is technology, as it is essential for enhancing supply chain efficiency and effectiveness. Next, chat participants shared the programs and software supply chain managers need.
“An ERP like Acumatica,” said Gunnarson.
“Some kind of ERP and supply chain management software,” Koch surmised.
DCSC Software Integrations and Options,” listed Packer before confessing, “I cheated.”
“A good sourcing tool that connects you with ready and able suppliers! (I ♥️ IndustryNet),” recommended McDermith.
Given that supply chain leaders must manage inventory, buy materials and goods, and be involved in shipping, storage, and fulfillment, it’s no surprise that they require numerous technologies to do their jobs effectively. Per host Austin, “All growing manufacturers and suppliers need an ERP System in place and additional technologies such as barcoding, WMS, EDI, and Real-Time Analytics.” (To learn more about supply chain technologies, read Unpacking Supply Chain Technologies: An Introduction to ERP, WMS, and More.)
The Importance of Staying Current on Supply Chain Trends
After discussing necessary technologies for supply chain managers, chat participants shared their views on the importance of staying current on trends.
“Like with any industry or role, it’s crucial to be aware of larger trends,” Koch declared. “That way you aren’t making yourself obsolete by being behind the times – rather, you’re bringing new ideas, etc. to the table.”
“So true!” host Austin exclaimed in a reply to Koch. “Being able to innovate and not get left behind is critical. There always needs to be a purpose defined and a good implementation plan though.”
“Like all professions, CPD is the way to stay ahead,” Packer maintained. “If you don’t know what is going on in your own industry then you will quickly fall behind. CPD = Continuous professional development. Networking, reading, training, lectures.”
“Being current on trends allows you to be prepared, analyze potential advancements, and fortify your processes for continued success,” said Amy Anderson. “Trends are not something you necessarily need to follow, but awareness and understanding helps you deal with the current situations.”
“Great point about not necessarily having to follow trends but at least be aware of them, Amy!” commented Koch.
“Hi Amy, I agree, not all trends lead you in the right direction. Many fall flat after a lot of hype,” said Packer in response to Anderson’s answer.
Host Austin agreed that staying current on trends helps supply chain managers to not only grow professionally but keep their companies ahead.
“It is critical to have the basics: ERP, Barcoding, Real-Time Inventory Control, Quality Data, and good procedures. However, it would help if you looked at more advanced technologies to grow, make strategic moves, and not get left behind,” she said.
Advice for Leaders
The chat concluded with participants sharing their best advice for supply chain leaders. Listening, empathy, and positive reinforcement were highlighted as key components of effective leadership.
“[T]ake advantage of all your team brings to the table – look for hidden talents,” answered McDermith.
“Now that was an amazing answer!” host Austin affirmed McDermith.
“I think we all are leaders of some sort even if our job title doesn’t reflect that,” said Koch. “My best advice is to listen more than you speak.”
“Learn to listen well and practice empathy,” Rusine advised.
“Speak with your teams on a one-to-one and group level regularly,” recommended Packer. “Make them feel appreciated, and know a little about everyone on the team. They will have many of the answers you seek.”
“Stay positive,” Gunnarson advocated.
Though host Austin didn’t disagree with the participants’ advice, her recommendation focused on the leaders themselves.
“My advice is simple: Leadership is not easy, and you must take time to take care of yourself first. Resiliency is not sustainable when you’re burnt out,” Austin said.
Conclusion
Supply chain management is a dynamic field requiring a unique blend of skills, knowledge, and technology. The #USAMfgHour chat provided valuable insights into what makes an effective supply chain leader. By fostering supportive environments, staying informed about trends, and leveraging the right technologies, supply chain leaders can navigate the challenges of 2024 and beyond.
About #USAMfgHour
Anyone who champions U.S. manufacturing can join in on a new conversation each week on Twitter using the hashtag #USAMfgHour. The chat starts at 11 a.m. Pacific Standard Time/2 p.m. Eastern. Share positive blog posts, helpful articles, news, important information, accomplishments, events, and more with other manufacturers and supporters from throughout the country.
Are you interested in hosting a #USAMfgHour chat? Contact organizers @DCSCinc, @SocialSMktg, and @KeystoneClick.
To learn more about how Keystone Click can help you level up your online presence, contact us.