SupplyChain Magazine May 2022 | Page 25

Q . WHAT WILL BE THE RISKS OF THE FUTURE TO SUPPLY

» Geopolitical risk is becoming more complicated to manage by the day , and I think this will be the source of the biggest risks facing organisations in the future . For the past 30 years , we ’ ve optimised supply chains based on cost and quality . We ’ ve given less value to the continuity of supply . This is causing problems from an economic standpoint , given political tensions , pandemics , and other risk events that could pop up at any moment . I expect organisations to continue to build resilience in the face of major geopolitical issues .

Q . BEST BIT OF ADVICE EVER GIVEN ?

» That the most important skill you can learn in life is storytelling . This is what connects us as humans . You could have the best ideas in the world , but if you can ’ t communicate those ideas in a way others can understand , then your ideas won ’ t take off .

Q . WHO INSPIRES YOU ?

» Admiral Grace Hopper . She joined the Navy Reserve during WWII and was a pioneer in early computing . There ’ s one quote of hers I think is so important for companies to consider :

The most dangerous phrase in the English language is , ‘ We ’ ve always done it that way ’. Such a mentality today for an organisation is a recipe for disaster , and can inhibit growth and performance . supplychaindigital . com 25