In this episode of The Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with Santiago Camacho, a global supply chain leader with over two decades of experience in manufacturing and operations. Currently spearheading the setup of a new Greenfield site in Portugal for Coloplast, Santiago shares a candid look at the realities of modern supply chain leadership.

From balancing demand forecasts and managing production capacity to integrating AI into planning systems, Santiago explores how technology and people intersect in shaping the future of operations. He also reflects on leadership lessons, cross-cultural experiences, and how resilience and adaptability define successful supply chain transformation.

Whether you’re an operations professional, manufacturing leader, or curious about the human side of global logistics, this episode delivers grounded insights and actionable takeaways.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast 

00:49 Meet Santiago Camacho: A Supply Chain Expert 

02:03 Challenges in Modern Supply Chain Management 

03:50 AI's Impact on Entry-Level Jobs 

07:13 Building a New Greenfield Site in Portugal 

14:50 Postponement Strategy in Supply Chain 

17:12 Leadership Lessons from Santiago Camacho 

21:23 Balancing Demand Forecasts and Capacity 

28:52 Global Supply Chain Planning at Coloplast 

34:57 Personal Insights: Santiago Camacho's Journey 

39:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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