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Understanding supply chain management in the time of COVID-19
Supply chain disruption is a concept that COVID-19 has brought to the fore. Escalating virus infections and lock-down regulations have given rise to an unfavourable stop and start mechanism in many industries. Will the supply chain management profession emerge stronger, from this crisis? To answer that question, CNBC Africa's Zinathi Gquma spoke to MJ Schoemaker, Director of The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management in Southern Africa.
Fri, 24 Jul 2020 15:58:14 GMT
Disclaimer: The following content is generated automatically by a GPT AI and may not be accurate. To verify the details, please watch the video
AI Generated Summary
- The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified the importance of efficient and flexible supply chain management, extending beyond traditional procurement and logistics.
- Supply chain professionals are proactively reevaluating their strategies and embracing robust risk management processes to enhance resilience and preparedness for future disruptions.
- The pandemic has underscored the significance of transparency, accountability, and technological innovation in supply chain operations, as companies strive to navigate unprecedented challenges and build more agile supply chains.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global supply chains, presenting challenges and opportunities for supply chain professionals worldwide. The escalating virus infections and lockdown regulations have led to an unfavorable stop-and-start mechanism in many industries, highlighting the importance of efficient and resilient supply chain management. To gain insights into how supply chain professionals are navigating these unprecedented times, CNBC Africa's Zinathi Gquma interviewed MJ Schoemaker, Director of The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management in Southern Africa. Schoemaker emphasized the crucial role of supply chain management beyond just procurement and logistics, encompassing production, returns, and planning. With the pandemic upending traditional supply chain models, companies and professionals have had to rethink their strategies and adopt robust risk management processes. Schoemaker stressed the need for proactive planning, collaboration across departments, and a sales and operations framework to ensure agility and preparedness for future disruptions. Amidst economic challenges, such as cash flow constraints, companies are turning to supply chain professionals for strategic guidance and operational efficiency. The pandemic has also shed light on the importance of transparency and accountability in supply chain operations, with Schoemaker advocating for stringent controls and due diligence to prevent corruption and ensure funds reach intended beneficiaries. As countries face varying degrees of lockdown restrictions, supply chain professionals are encountering unique difficulties in managing border closures, stockpiling, and fluctuating demand. Schoemaker highlighted the pressure faced by supply chain teams in consolidating data, making swift decisions, and adapting to evolving market conditions. Despite the challenges, Schoemaker commended the resilience and adaptability of supply chain professionals, emphasizing the critical role they play in driving business continuity and innovation. As companies navigate the 'new normal' and strive to build more agile and responsive supply chains, the expertise and acumen of supply chain professionals will be instrumental in shaping the future of global trade and commerce.
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