CHRIS CLOWES
SUPPLY CHAIN STRATEGY
“ When a disruption occurs,” Parmeshwaran explains,“ such as a port closure or supplier delay, we sometimes need to adapt faster than our systems were originally designed for. That is where Jugaad plays a role.”
One particularly good example is how local transport teams create WhatsApp groups to communicate delivery updates in real time. The informal fix evolved into a lightweight mobile logistics app with GPS tracking, delivery proof and communication tools – avoiding reliance on clunky desktop systems.
Apollo Tyres’ manufacturing footprint also supports agility. With five plants in India and two in Europe, the company flexes capacity regionally.
Parmeshwaran expands:“ While our systems are strategic and codified, our ability to reconfigure quickly when conditions shift reflects a Jugaadinspired approach using what’ s available, solving problems quickly and doing so without breaking structure.”
CHRIS CLOWES
TITLE: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMPANY: SCALA INDUSTRY: CONSULTING
As an Executive Director at SCALA, Chris leads European projects, supporting supply chain transformation. He previously held senior roles in international retail at Medco Health Solutions, Costa Express and Boots.
Technology also plays a vital role, with Guy highlighting how Oracle’ s AI-powered trade management system helps teams keep up with changing tariffs and regulatory rules. Visibility is critical, he says, enabling fast responses to policy changes and avoiding bottlenecks.
Meanwhile Chris focuses on the financial benefits of forecasting:“ More accurate forecasts reduce stock-outs and cut excess inventory, freeing up working capital and lowering costs.”
His advice includes diversifying supplier networks, designing warehouses that adapt to changing product lines and investing in digital visibility to catch disruption early.
Adaptability also means building strong cross-functional relationships. Forecasting impacts marketing, sales, operations and finance; without alignment, even the most accurate data can be ignored or misinterpreted.
Chris encourages a collaborative mindset:“ Forecasting is not just a technical process – it’ s a shared discipline that depends on trust, dialogue and clear objectives across business functions.”
This emphasis on collaboration and mutual ownership turns forecasting from a siloed activity into a shared responsibility that builds resilience across the supply chain.
The future of supply chain adaptability Looking ahead, Guy sees AI“ undoubtedly shaping the present and the future of supply chain management and cross-border logistics.” supplychaindigital. com 109