The Future of Supply Chain

How are product carbon footprints changing the supply chain? In this episode, our hosts Richard Howells and Sin To speak with Philippe Strebler, Head of Sustainability at Ceratizit, about the future of sustainable supply chains. Discover how transparency in carbon accounting, new industry standards, and the vision of a circular economy by 2025 are revolutionising the sector. Learn why Scope 3 emissions present a particular challenge and how modern business systems support carbon accounting.Tune in now for inspiration on how to drive the sustainable transformation of your supply chain. Guest: Philippe Strebler Philippe Strebler, Head of Sustainability at CERATIZIT GroupPhilippe leads the sustainability topic for CERATIZIT, a global leader in the carbide and cutting tool industry. With over 15 years at the company, he started in R&D, moved into Sales, and now drives the Group’s sustainability strategy—shaping long-term growth and embedding sustainable practices across the business. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Sin To, SAP Sin To brings over 15 years of experience in the digital media and technology industry – primarily in marketing, business development, thought leadership, and editorial. At SAP, they ensure that SAP’s supply chain solutions are properly visible with a focus on future trends and sustainable innovations as part of the Thought Leadership & Awareness Supply Chain Team. Useful Links: Download Transcript SAP Digital Supply Chain: www.sap.com/scm Ceratizit Whitepaper: Know Your Product Carbon Footprint Follow Us on Social Media Philippe Strebler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippe-strebler-733b9362/ Richard Howells: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardjhowells Sin To:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sin-to-5334208 SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/showcase/sapdsc/ Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week, we, together with Gordon Donovan, explore the Procurement Imperative 2030 report, which outlines four future scenarios impacting procurement and supply chain: geopolitical shifts slowing globalization, the looming talent cliff, rising cybersecurity threats, and the urgency of climate resilience. Gordon discusses adapting strategies in sourcing, workforce, digital infrastructure, and sustainability, emphasizing collaboration, trust, and AI’s role in navigating complexity toward rewarding outcomes Guest: Gordon Donovan, Vice President of Research for Procurement and External Workforce, SAP Gordon Donovan is a seasoned procurement professional with over 30 years of experience in leading transformations and establishing functions that deliver enterprise-wide value. He holds a graduate diploma (1996) and a master’s degree in strategic procurement and is a Fellow of CIPS. Recognized as a thought leader within procurement, Gordon is a sought-after speaker, writer, and presenter. He has led procurement teams across various sectors including Health, Rail, Finance, and the public sector in the UK, as well as across Asia. In his role at SAP as Vice President of Research for Procurement and External Workforce, Gordon is responsible for tracking the latest trends in procurement, conducting in-depth research, and forming insights that help SAP plan their strategy accordingly. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript  The Procurement Imperative 2030 research: https://impact.economist.com/projects/the-procurement-imperative/scenarios Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Gordon Donovan: LinkedIn  Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Paige Cox, Chief Product Officer at Everstream, explore the evolving landscape of supply chain risk management. Paige shares insights on integrating AI, real-time data, and human expertise to build adaptive, measurable resilience. The conversation covers geopolitical disruptions, tariff impacts, reshoring challenges, and the future of supply chain technology platforms for improved foresight and collaboration Guest: Paige Cox, Chief Product Officer, Everstream Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Everstream: https://www.everstream.ai Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

In this insightful episode, join hosts Richard and Oyku as they welcome cybersecurity expert Gabriele Fiata from SAP to discuss how supply chains are evolving in the face of increasing cyber threats. As supply chains grow faster and more complex, security can no longer be an afterthought – it must be built into systems like ERP from the ground up. Gabriele highlights the shift towards a shared responsibility model in cloud security, emphasizing collaboration between businesses, vendors, and partners. With threats escalating, AI-powered detection and automated defenses are becoming critical tools to spot breaches before they happen. The conversation also reveals how companies are embracing new mindsets and training people to be the first line of defense, turning a potential weak point into a strength. Tune in to hear how smart planning and resilience can protect your business and keep supply chains moving smoothly. Don’t miss this chance to learn from real-world insights and a recent IDC study that quantifies the high value of these new security approaches. Listen now and discover how securing the supply chain can secure your future. Guest: Gabriele Fiata, Global Head of SAP Cloud ERP – Security Market Strategy Thought leader with a strong background in security as well as business processes, controls, and enterprise risk management. For more than 20 years, he has been leading teams in implementing innovative process improvements to identify and mitigate risks to promote resilience for the whole enterprise and enable overall business growth. Gabriele Fiata: LinkedIn Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar is a marketer and thought leader specializing in SAP’s digital supply chain and ERP solutions since 2017. As a marketer, blogger, and podcaster, she creates engaging content that highlights innovative SAP technologies and explores key topics including business trends, AI, Industry 4.0, and sustainability. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Finance & Accounting and English Translation, along with a master’s degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade, specializing in marketing. With her background in digital transformation, Oyku communicates technology trends and industry insights to help professionals navigate the evolving business landscape. Useful Links: Download Transcript The $8.9M reason to implement SAP Cloud ERP The Business Value of Enhancing Security and Resiliency with SAP Cloud ERP Private Related SAP Pages SAP Supply Chain Management RISE with SAP cloud operations Discover the SAP Cloud ERP Trust Center Page Join the new annual SAP Connect event in person or virtually. Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X Oyku Ilgar: SAP Community, LinkedIn SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week, we, together with Martin Rowan, reveal how private equity investment raises the stakes for companies to improve business performance. Martin explains why many SAP users underutilize their systems and offers practical steps and real case successes to unlock hidden value. Guest: Martin Rowan, Managing Partner, Reveal   Martin Rowan is the Managing Partner with Reveal, where he helps companies leverage their existing technology to optimize integrated supply chains and achieve world-class performance. With over 20 years of global experience, he has guided transformational change for leading organizations including CITGO, the US Navy, Minuteman International, Current Lighting, Campbell’s Soup, GE, Carlisle, HD Supply, and Ryerson Steel just to name a few. A recognized industry speaker, Martin is frequently invited to share his insights on how optimized supply chains unlock measurable business outcomes. His engaging style and practical expertise have made him a trusted voice at conferences and industry forums across the globe. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Reveal: https://www.revealvalue.com Article link: “Private Equity doesn’t invest for stability, it invests for Performance” – Link Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Martin Rowan: LinkedIn Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Bristlecone’s Robert Kalbach and Guru Parvati, dive into the necessity of business networks for collaboration and transparency in complex supply chains. We discuss challenges like ESG compliance, integration of business systems, AI’s role in decision-making, and how SAP and Bristlecone partner to create connected, intelligent, and autonomous supply chain ecosystems for competitive advantage. Guest: Gururaj Parvati, Director at Bristlecone, SAP Global Partner Gururaj Parvati leads go‑to‑market programs that connect strategy to execution across Planning, Procurement, and Execution. Over a 25‑plus‑year career spanning delivery, program management, and presales, he brings a practitioner’s lens to SAP Business Network, showing the ‘art of the possible’ with AI/ML layered on S/4HANA, IBP, Ariba, and Transportation Management. At Bristlecone, Gururaj partners closely with SAP on story‑driven, integrated demonstrations that help customers unlock real‑time supplier and logistics collaboration, improve end‑to‑end visibility, and translate network insights into measurable outcomes. His work bridges product capabilities with customer value and GTM impact, enabling organizations to modernize operations while building resilience across their extended enterprise. Guest: Robert Kalbach, Director and Consulting Leader – Consumer Goods & Life Sciences Business Unit, Bristlecone Bob has over two decades of experience in academia, industry and consulting at various organizations.  He has been a divisional risk officer in financial services and the head of operations engineering in telecom.  He has led process improvement, digital transformation, SAP and technology engagements in Industrial Manufacturing, Consumer Products, Healthcare, Life Sciences and Med Tech.  As a professor of Supply Chain and Decision Science at a local NY metro university, he maintains academic ties to leading research and innovation.  Specifically, in the areas of AI / ML application and growth benefits for operations across industries. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar is a marketer and thought leader specializing in SAP’s digital supply chain and ERP solutions since 2017. As a marketer, blogger, and podcaster, she creates engaging content that highlights innovative SAP technologies and explores key topics including business trends, AI, Industry 4.0, and sustainability. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Finance & Accounting and English Translation, along with a master’s degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade, specializing in marketing. With her background in digital transformation, Oyku communicates technology trends and industry insights to help professionals navigate the evolving business landscape. Useful Links: Download Transcript Bristlecone: https://www.bristlecone.com Whitepapers: Strategic Planning for Resilient and Agile Supply Chains – Bristlecone Revolutionizing Procurement: Lean Strategies for Sustainable Success – Bristlecone Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X Oyku Ilgar: SAP Community, LinkedIn SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week, we, together with SP van Houten, explore how intelligent automation and AI are reshaping supply chain planning. The episode covers overcoming traditional silos, driving real-time collaboration, integrating sustainability goals, and empowering teams with advanced tools for continuous improvement in supply chain operations. Guest: Stijn-Pieter (SP) van Houten, Chief Product Officer SCM Planning, SAP  SP van Houten leads the Product team for the SAP Integrated Business Planning application (SCM Planning), where he is responsible for shaping and delivering advanced supply chain planning and decision-making strategies, as well as product capabilities. With over 20 years of global experience in supply chain management, strategy, and operations, he is recognized as a thought leader and innovator in next-generation planning and decision-making applications. He holds a PhD in computer simulation and mathematical modeling from Delft University of Technology and has completed executive education at world-renowned institutions, including Berkeley, Stanford, and Cranfield. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar is a marketer and thought leader specializing in SAP’s digital supply chain and ERP solutions since 2017. As a marketer, blogger, and podcaster, she creates engaging content that highlights innovative SAP technologies and explores key topics including business trends, AI, Industry 4.0, and sustainability. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Finance & Accounting and English Translation, along with a master’s degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade, specializing in marketing. With her background in digital transformation, Oyku communicates technology trends and industry insights to help professionals navigate the evolving business landscape. Useful Links: Download Transcript Reinventing planning for a new era of supply chain: https://www.sap.com/documents/2025/08/9094a069-1a7f-0010-bca6-c68f7e60039b.html Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Stijn-Pieter (SP) van Houten: LinkedIn Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X Oyku Ilgar: SAP Community, LinkedIn SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

In this episode, Richard Howells talks with SAP’s Till Dengel about the new SAP Logistics Management, a solution that digitizes small and remote operations and unifies warehouse and transport with a built-in carrier network. They unpack the shift from pure efficiency to agility and control, the trade-offs of decentralized warehousing, and why connected systems matter. And they also explore how AI and robotics will reshape logistics, and the digital foundations needed to unlock their value. Tune in for practical ways to meet evolving supply chain demands and build resilient operations. Guest: Till Dengel, SAP Till Dengel is VP Product Marketing for Logistics, Asset and Service.Mr. Dengel oversees global market research, thought leadership, commercial modeling, marketing, and communications for SAP’s Digital Logistics & Manufacturing solution portfolio. As an accomplished speaker in this domain, Mr. Dengel brings a comprehensive perspective on market dynamics and the latest industry trends. Mr. Dengel has held several executive roles, including leading the global Business Unit for the Travel & Transportation Industry and serving as the Chief Strategy & Business Development Officer for SAP’s Data Intelligence business unit. Additionally, he has been a customer officer for the CIO & CPO. His SAP journey began in 2000 as a senior consultant in Supply Chain Management. Before joining SAP, Mr. Dengel worked as a team leader for DHL. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and an Executive Master’s Degree in Information Management. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Forbes | Why Reimagined Logistics Is The Future Every Business Should Know – https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2025/10/08/why-reimagined-logistics-is-the-future-every-business-should-know Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Till Dengel: LinkedIn Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Kyle Winters of the World Economic Forum, explore the evolution of global supply chains through the lens of their report “From Shock to Strategy.” We cover key disruptions, regionalization’s benefits and risks, regulatory compliance, consumer expectations, climate risk mitigation, cybersecurity, and the pillars of future-ready value chains. Guest: Kyle Winters, WEF Kyle Winters is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains, where he drives global discussions and insights on macro supply chain resilience and industrial policy. He guides in shaping the agenda of the Global Future Council on Advanced Manufacturing and Value Chains, analyzing the long-term impacts of emerging trends, disruptions, and policy shifts on the manufacturing and logistics landscape. Prior to joining the Forum, Kyle held roles across public and international sectors, including consulting in Washington, D.C., supporting global development initiatives with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and serving in the Obama White House. Outside of the office, Kyle is an avid skier and surfer. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript White Paper ‘‘From Shock to Strategy: Building Value Chains for the Next 30 Years’’: https://www.weforum.org/publications/from-shock-to-strategy-building-value-chains-for-the-next-30-years/ Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with RTS’s Doug Holtke, explore how manufacturers can achieve operational excellence by leveraging manufacturing execution systems (MES), real-time visibility, and AI. Doug shares insights on improving quality, efficiency, and decision making on the shop floor, common challenges, and how RTS supports companies with holistic operational strategies. Guest: Doug Holtke, RTS  Douglas Holtke has B.S. in Materials Engineering from Purdue University and over 30 years of manufacturing experience in engineering, operations, and solution consulting.  He is an expert in Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) an automation integration.  He has delivered dozens of solutions in diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, food & beverage, consumer products, oil and gas, chemical, and life sciences.  He specializes in bridging the gap between technology and business needs, enabling smarter production workflows and continuous improvement with a proven track record of helping organizations streamline operations and drive efficiency. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript RTS: https://rtsperfectplant.com Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Manish Kapoor, explore the rapid evolution of supply chains from supportive roles to strategic business drivers. We discuss how tariffs, shifting consumer behavior, and technology like AI and automation demand adaptable and data-driven supply chains, especially for managing last mile delivery and holiday season surges. Guest: Manish Kapoor, Founder & CEO, Growth Catalyst Group  Manish Kapoor is the Founder and CEO of Growth Catalyst Group (GCG), the parent company powering some of the fastest-growing brands in logistics, marketing and the supply chain, including Advatix, Archway, and XPDEL. With more than 25 years of experience at Amazon, FedEx, and GCG, Manish has built a career on redefining how goods move, and how businesses scale. At Amazon, he was the first hire for Amazon Logistics (AMZL) and instrumental in launching Amazon Fresh and Sunday Delivery. At FedEx, he pioneered the first U.S.-based command and control center for last-mile delivery, setting the standard for route optimization and automation. Manish holds advanced degrees from MIT, Babson College, and Rochester Institute of Technology. Today, he leads GCG’s mission to deliver next-gen logistics solutions powered by technology, data and deep operational expertise. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Growth Catalyst Group: LinkedIn Articles: Amazon’s First Logistics Hire Explains Why Speed Decides Retail’s Winners How Walmart, Amazon, and other retail giants are using AI to reinvent the supply chain—from warehouse to checkout Driving Disruption: Manish Kapoor Of Growth Catalyst Group On The Innovative Approaches They Are Taking To Disrupt Their Industry Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Michael Augustine from Westernacher, explore the critical role of yard management in connecting warehousing and transportation. Michael shares benefits of digitization, challenges faced without proper yard systems, AI use cases, and future trends. Guest: Michael Augustine, Managing Partner and Global Practice Director, Westernacher Michael has a deep expertise in supply chain execution, site logistics, and port operations. Throughout his career, he has combined process analysis, strategic advisory, and solution design to deliver measurable impact for clients worldwide. At Westernacher, Michael leads global strategy, business development, and go-to-market activities for SAP Yard Logistics, playing a pivotal role in shaping and expanding this market with particular success in the U.S. and Canada. His leadership spans from solution architecture and project management to strategic advisory, ensuring seamless delivery of complex supply chain initiatives across industries. Beyond his SAP focus, Michael served on the Executive Board of Westernacher’s Consulting Division in 2021–2022, strengthening his perspective on organizational leadership and consulting excellence. Recognized for his forward-thinking approach, Michael brings not only extensive experience but also the ability to anticipate market shifts and translate them into actionable strategies. He is a trusted partner for organizations seeking to innovate, optimize, and future-proof their supply chain operations. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Westernacher: https://westernacher.com Social Media Links:   SAP Supply Chain Management SAP Insights: Supply Chain Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with CSCMP’s CEO Mark Baxa, explore critical supply chain challenges, the transformative impact of AI, strategies for resilience and sustainability, and the importance of education and talent development for the future workforce. Guest: Mark Baxa, CEO, CSCMP Mark’s experience in Supply Chain leadership spans 44 years. As CSCMPs President & CEO, he brings broad and deep leadership experience to lead the world’s premier supply chain education association. Creating meaningful people leadership and development opportunities for the world’s supply chain professionals is job #1 with Mark. The supply Chain is the backbone of progress. Society counts on he supply chain to “deliver the goods while doing the right things right. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript CSCMP: www.cscmp.org https://www.cscmpedge.org/website/81276/home Social Media Links:   SAP Supply Chain Management SAP Insights: Supply Chain Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

Tune into this episode of ‘The Future of Supply Chain,’ where Richard and Sin chat with World Economic Forum’s fellow Benedikt Gieger. They’ll unpack the hottest trends driving the evolution of supply chains, inspired by groundbreaking insights from two key WEF white papers. Imagine a future where supply chains are smart, sustainable, and globally synced. Get ready to explore the roles of AI, quantum computing, real-time data, and more in reshaping industries.Don’t miss out on this deep dive into the cutting-edge future of supply chains! Guest: Benedikt Gieger Benedikt Gieger is an early talent expert in the area of AI and sustainability with a focus on manufacturing, youth advocate and has a background in Business Information Systems. In his professional life, Benedikt works at SAP and is a Fellow at the World Economic Forum for AI and Manufacturing. In this dual role he works closely with Executives from world leading companies, academia and politics on strategies, frameworks, tools, new business models and best practices to help companies, especially manufacturers, to adopt new technologies and transform their business to an AI-driven and sustainable one.  In accordance with the quote of Mahatma Gandhi “the future depends on what you do today”, Benedikt’s personal goal is to have an active role in making the world a better place, creating impact, and fighting global challenges by uniting people using modern technology. But nevertheless, these goals can only be achieved together including all stakeholders. Therefore, and because Benedikt is deeply connected with his home region, he founded together with two other motivated talents the World Economic Forum Global Shapers Hub Heidelberg in January 2023. Because of his work, Benedikt was nominated for the Axel Springer Future Pioneers Award 2023. To enable a knowledge transfer and support young, motivated talents, he gives lectures in the area of new technologies and sustainability and is one of the youngest Academic Supervisors and Lecturers at DHBW in Karlsruhe.  Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Sin To, SAP Sin To brings over 15 years of experience in the digital media and technology industry – primarily in marketing, business development, thought leadership, and editorial. At SAP, they ensure that SAP’s supply chain solutions are properly visible with a focus on future trends and sustainable innovations as part of the Thought Leadership & Awareness Supply Chain Team. Useful Links: Download Transcript SAP Digital Supply Chain: www.sap.com/scm World Economic Forum Reports:  ·  The one about Triple Transformation  ·  The one about communication as transformation infrastructure  ·  The one about a new finance approach · Harnessing AI technology to build autonomous supply chains Harvard Business Review:  Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence Follow Us on Social Media Benedikt Gieger LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katja-keller-54744b/ Richard Howells: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardjhowells Sin To:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sin-to-5334208 SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/showcase/sapdsc/ Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Andres Mendoza Pena from Kearney, explore findings from the annual State of Logistics Report. We discuss the ongoing challenges in the motor carrier sector, growth in e-commerce and last-mile delivery, the increasing importance of sustainability, and how emerging technologies including AI are shaping the future of supply chains amid growing uncertainty. Guest: Andres Mendoza Pena, Senior Partner, Kearney Andres is a Senior Partner at Kearney, a global management consulting firm, where he leads the Americas Transportation & Travel practice. He advises leading corporations and financial sponsors on mergers and acquisitions, organic growth strategies, and performance transformations. Andres brings a unique perspective by combining boardroom-level strategic expertise with hands-on experience from working with digital startups and incubators. His approach bridges logistics and emerging technology, helping clients navigate complex challenges at the intersection of innovation and operations. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript State of Logistics landing page: State of Logistics 2025: Navigating through the fog | Kearney  Social Media Links:   SAP Supply Chain Management SAP Insights: Supply Chain Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This episode explores one of the most critical challenges facing global supply chains: sustainability. Joined by SAP experts Katja Keller and Mathias Kaldenhoff, the discussion sheds light on how sustainable practices are evolving and why they’re becoming a strategic priority for businesses worldwide.Key topics include:• The changing definition of sustainability, from purely environmental to a broader economic and social perspective• The growing importance of regulatory compliance and how it’s shaping supply chain strategies• The vital role of data and digital technologies in enabling transparency and action Guest: Katja Keller Katja Keller is Market Unit Lead Germany for Sustainability Solutions at SAP and she brings a total of 23 years of SAP experience in various roles. She holds a degree in Industrial Engineering with a minor in Mechanical Engineering and gained her first experiences in sustainability during her studies, focusing on recycling and disassembly. Since her former boss introduced her to the UN’s sustainability goals in 2016 to give a presentation about them at a team meeting, she has been deeply involved with this topic at SAP. Guest: Mathias Kaldenhoff Mathias Kaldenhoff is an expert in digital transformation with a focus on sustainability. He works at SAP and is known for his contributions in areas such as big data, real-time platforms, predictive analytics, and artificial intelligence. In addition to his work at SAP, he has been involved in various research and innovation projects, including those related to the circular economy and climate-friendly solutions. He is also a member of expert advisory boards, such as the German Energy Agency (dena), and participates in international alliances for circular economy standards. M. Kaldenhoff has an academic background in history, German studies, and business informatics. He is a strong advocate for sustainability and technological integration, such as the digitalization of supply chains or the implementation of business models like “Asset-as-a-Service.” He is also active in topics such as ESG reporting and regulatory frameworks like the German Supply Chain Act (LkSG), aiming to help companies become more sustainable. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Sin To, SAP Sin To brings over 15 years of experience in the digital media and technology industry – primarily in marketing, business development, thought leadership, and editorial. At SAP, they ensure that SAP’s supply chain solutions are properly visible with a focus on future trends and sustainable innovations as part of the Thought Leadership & Awareness Supply Chain Team. Useful Links: Download Transcript SAP Digital Supply Chain: www.sap.com/scm Follow Us on Social Media Katja Keller LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katja-keller-54744b/ Mathias Kaldenhoff:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathias-kaldenhoff/ Richard Howells: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/richardjhowells Sin To:  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sin-to-5334208 SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/showcase/sapdsc/ Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This podcast episode explores the complex relationship between AI and sustainability in supply chains. Experts MarySue Barrett and Regenia Sanders highlight AI’s potential to optimize operations, improve climate monitoring, and support decarbonization, while also addressing AI’s significant energy, water, and mineral consumption. They discuss strategies for responsible AI governance, transparency, and cross-industry collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the growing importance of supply chain visibility, sustainable technology innovation, federal advocacy, and supplier engagement. Highlighting the Women’s Leadership Center’s role in empowering female leaders, the episode encourages thoughtful AI adoption as a powerful tool to balance business growth with environmental responsibility. Guest: MarySue Barrett, Women’s Leadership Center MarySue Barrett is a super-connector. Through MSB Policy Consulting, she actively shares her knowledge and network to help institutions achieve outsized results. Her energy, make-it-happen attitude, and enthusiasm are contagious. MarySue is thrilled to dedicate most of her time to advising Ann M. Drake and a new Women’s Leadership Center on programming, to ensure that women are at the forefront of solving global problems. She cultivates partnerships with corporations, think tanks, women’s leadership organizations, and universities on Bold Ideas such as harnessing AI to reduce environmental harms. Other clients have included M. Harris & Co., the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Pritzker Traubert Foundation, and the Brookings Institution, where she has a long affiliation as a Nonresident Senior Fellow. MarySue draws on a notable track record as a policy changemaker. For 25 years, she was President of the independent Metropolitan Planning Council. Earlier, she served in Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley’s Administration as Chief of Policy. She has nourished her passion for learning from other cities through seven international leadership exchanges, including one sponsored by the International Women’s Forum. Guest: Regenia R. Sanders, Managing Partner Consulting, EY Regenia Sanders is an executive with 25+ years of experience driving business transformation and consulting for Fortune 500 and Private Equity companies, mainly in Automotive and Industrial Manufacturing. She specializes in Supply Chain Management, delivering global programs across sourcing, procurement, planning, manufacturing, and fulfillment. Regenia has led enterprise-wide transformations using technologies like SAP and best-in-class software, working from shopfloor to C-suite as a trusted advisor on cost reduction and operating models. At EY, she served as Business Consulting practice leader for the US Central Region and previously as Supply Chain & Operations leader for the Americas. She is currently Managing Partner of EY Atlanta and helped establish EY’s Supply Chain Planning as an industry leader. Known for translating complex ideas for broad audiences, Regenia drives supply chain innovation through analytics and advanced tech. She contributes to publications, panels, and academia, champions DEI as an executive sponsor at EY. Externally she sits on the Board of Directors for the National Minority Supplier Development Council and the Alumni Board of Directors for her alma mater, and the Advisory Board for Advancing Women’s Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management and Education (AWESOME). Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar holds two bachelor’s degrees, one in Financial Administration and Accounting and another in English Translation Studies. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from her undergraduate studies in Istanbul, she pursued her master’s degree in Business Administration and Foreign Trade in Germany with a specialization in Marketing. Since 2017, Oyku has been working in the supply chain management area at SAP. As a marketer and blogger, she creates written, audible, and visual content focused on ERP and supply chain solutions, with a strong emphasis on business trends, AI, machine learning, and sustainability. Oyku’s SAP Community & LinkedIn Useful Links: Download Transcript Whitepaper: Balancing the Benefits of AI and the Health of Our Planet www.sap.com/ERP womensleadershipcenter.org Follow Us on Social Media Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X   Oyku Ilgar: LinkedIn   SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with Marco Trottmann from Westernacher, explore how advanced robotics and AI are reshaping the warehouse of the future. Marco shares insights on evolving automation technologies, AI-driven orchestration, real-world use cases, and how integrating these innovations with enterprise systems creates adaptive, resilient supply chains that anticipate and respond to changing demands. Guest: Marco Trottmann, Senior Partner, Practice Director and Global Innovations Lead Warehousing, Westernacher Consulting With 25 years of experience in the industry and over 20 years working with SAP solutions, he’s one of the most experienced consultants in his field, catering to a global client base. His rare mix of profound technical depth, an end-to-end business process understanding, and the ability to explain highly complex topics in simple terms makes him a sought-after consultant, advising at all levels from operational teams up to the C level. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Useful Links: Download Transcript Westernacher Consulting Home Page: https://westernacher.com/de/ Social Media Links:   SAP Supply Chain Management SAP Insights: Supply Chain Follow Us on Social Media Marco Trottmann: LinkedIn  Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with SAP’s Gordon Donovan, delve into strategic procurement in an era of polycrisis. We unpack the Economist Impact Report findings, discuss top risks from geopolitics to AI, the need for agility, and how procurement leaders are adapting their strategies for resilience and value. Guest: Gordon Donovan, Vice President of Research for Procurement and External Workforce, SAP Gordon Donovan is a seasoned procurement professional with over 30 years of experience in leading transformations and establishing functions that deliver enterprise-wide value. He holds a graduate diploma (1996) and a master’s degree in strategic procurement and is a Fellow of CIPS. Recognized as a thought leader within procurement, Gordon is a sought-after speaker, writer, and presenter. He has led procurement teams across various sectors including Health, Rail, Finance, and the public sector in the UK, as well as across Asia. In his role at SAP as Vice President of Research for Procurement and External Workforce, Gordon is responsible for tracking the latest trends in procurement, conducting in-depth research, and forming insights that help SAP plan their strategy accordingly. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar has been working in the digital supply chain area at SAP since 2017. As a marketer and blogger, she creates written and visual marketing content about ERP and Supply Chain solutions and focuses on the topics of business trends, IoT, Industry 4.0, and sustainability. Oyku’s SAP Community & LinkedIn Useful Links: Download Transcript The resilient edge: procurement in an era of polycrisis (The Economist Impact report): https://www.sap.com/documents/2025/05/6e17a518-067f-0010-bca6-c68f7e60039b.urc.html Social Media Links:   Supply Chain Management:  SAP Supply Chain Management  SAP Insights: Supply Chain   Follow Us on Social Media Gordon Donovan: LinkedIn  Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X   Oyku Ilgar: LinkedIn   SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn   Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!

This week we, together with SAP’s Aladdin Mandishah, dive into the future of digital traceability in supply chains. We discuss the technologies behind traceability, its role in building trust and meeting ESG goals, real-world pharma examples, challenges in adoption, and how SAP’s solutions and AI are shaping resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains. Come join us we discuss the future of supply chain. Guest: Aladdin Mandishah, Global Director of Industry Advisory, SAP As a Global Director of Industry Advisory at SAP, Aladdin brings 15 years of experience in strategy and transformation across diverse industries. In his role, he advises executives on how to leverage SAP solutions and the SAP Business Suite to drive innovation, efficiency, and compliance. Host: Richard Howells, SAP Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Management and Manufacturing space for over 30 years. He is responsible for driving the thought leadership and awareness of SAP’s ERP, Finance, and Supply Chain solutions and is an active writer, podcaster, and thought leader on the topics of supply chain, Industry 4.0, digitization, and sustainability. Richard’s LinkedIn & Twitter Host: Oyku Ilgar, SAP Oyku Ilgar has been working in the digital supply chain area at SAP since 2017. As a marketer and blogger, she creates written and visual marketing content about ERP and Supply Chain solutions and focuses on the topics of business trends, IoT, Industry 4.0, and sustainability. Oyku’s SAP Community & LinkedIn Useful Links: Download Transcript Solutions for serialization from SAP for the pharmaceutical sector: https://www.sap.com/documents/2021/02/28701eae-cc7d-0010-87a3-c30de2ffd8ff.html Social Media Links:   SAP Supply Chain Management SAP Insights: Supply Chain Follow Us on Social Media Aladdin Mandishah: LinkedIn  Richard Howells: LinkedIn, X   Oyku Ilgar: LinkedIn   SAP Digital Supply Chain: LinkedIn Please give us a like, share, and subscribe to stay up-to-date on future episodes!