SupplyChain Magazine July 2017 | Page 30

WE SPEAK TO REGIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN DIRECTOR PHOEBE KUNG ’ U , WHO DISCUSSES HOW SHE WORKS TO ENSURE THE ORGANISATION ’ S SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS REMAIN ROBUST IN THE FACE OF HUMANITARIAN CRISES

For more than 80 years the International Rescue Committee ( IRC ) has provisioned lifesaving aid and support to refugees throughout the world . Established in 1933 , it is one of the world ’ s most renowned and respected humanitarian organisation ’ s .

In order to remain resilient in the face of frequent unexpected crises , the IRC ’ s supply chain practices remain robust , creating efficiencies and providing world class service to individuals in need .
With many conflicts occurring worldwide , women and children are the most affected . Providing sourcing practices and compliance within East-Africa is Regional Supply Chain Director Phoebe Kung ’ u , who has become the only senior female Supply Chain Director in the region . Whilst she explains that an increased female engagement and desire to help women grow within the supply chain is something she wants to see more of , “ some countries present a lot of challenges for women , and therefore it is no wonder there are not many women in roles within the supply chain managerial roles . However , I also think that many organisations can do a bit more to encourage women to be part of this change .”
Professionalising the IRC ’ s supply chain operations and creating efficiencies by setting up key strategies , relevant to the context of the different countries within East Africa , falls under Kung ’ u ’ s umbrella . “ The supply chain is complex , especially the humanitarian sector ,” she says . “ It ’ s a field that has high risk , high challenge , but is very rewarding .” Supporting nine countries with different needs , Kung ’ u ensures all suppliers are able to respond to the IRC ’ S business operations , depicting a large piece of work with a wide scope . Through this role , acquiring an intimate knowledge about the context of the countries
30 July 2017