TRAILBLAZER
Moline , Illinois , and it was this that eventually led him into his current role .
Wiggins says that while at John Deere he has come to appreciate the immense value of the supplier relationship .
Supplier relationships ‘ vital ’ during the pandemic “ During the pandemic the strength of those relationships helped us through a challenging time ,” he says . “ Those same relationships are also key to unlocking innovation . Often suppliers approach us to share what they ’ re working on , and that can be a very powerful tool to generate innovation , growth , and get first-mover advantage .”
It is the pandemic , says Wiggins , that has taught him most while at the company .
Talking to Accenture , Wiggins said : “ One key learning point was the effect the pandemic had on our people and what , as leaders , we must do to ensure they make it through . It ’ s been an extremely stressful time for all employees , but specifically those in supply management .
“ It ’ s important to give encouragement and support , and have people take a timeout when they need it , to refresh their minds before getting back to the battle for products and parts .”
Engaging your people ‘ is priority number one ’ Wiggins says he sees “ tremendous value ” in driving high levels of engagement , “ so that people wake up in the morning and don ’ t fear coming to work ”. He adds : “ Taking care of people is number one .”
As for operational matters around suppliers , he says Covid-19 has taught him the importance of resilience .
“ I don ’ t think you can have too much resilience . Microsoft ’ s CEO Satya Nadella said in a recent interview that good leaders look
20 April 2022