Behind Abercrombie’s transformation is a supply chain that had to move just as fast.
Kristen Kravitz, Group Vice President of Transportation at Abercrombie & Fitch, shares how nearly a decade of operational change helped power one of retail’s biggest comebacks. From rethinking team structure to modernizing delivery strategies, she explains how execution across functions helped turn brand goals into customer reality.
In this conversation, Kristen breaks down what makes a supply chain resilient, where visibility creates real advantage, and why investing in your people is non-negotiable. She also shares her take on buzzwords, the role of tech, and how to keep teams focused in the face of nonstop change.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Kristen Kravitz
(01:02) How the supply chain supported Abercrombie’s brand transformation
(03:06) Rebuilding teams and structure to focus on the customer
(05:45) Shifting from a single-carrier model to a flexible last mile
(07:25) Why real-time visibility became non-negotiable
(12:33) Breaking down data silos to make smarter, faster decisions
(18:14) Making sustainability practical in the supply chain
(23:22) The leadership trait that sets top supply chain pros apart
(28:00) Kristen’s hot take on why people still matter most in supply chain
Resources:
What if the future of logistics isn't about speed but about trust?
In this episode, Nate Shutes, VP of Global Fulfillment & Logistics at Blu Dot, challenges the conventional wisdom that faster is better. He shares his unique perspective on logistics, supply chain innovation, and what it takes to build a customer-first delivery experience. From his early days in economics to his current role at Blu Dot, Nate highlights the evolution of his career and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He explains how delivering furniture isn’t just about moving products but creating a personal customer experience.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Nate Shutes
(04:06) Designing memorable delivery experiences at Blu Dot
(06:31) The “mule, not a unicorn” mindset
(09:00) Ballast: A community for supply chain entrepreneurs
(14:32) The human toll of entrepreneurship
(16:24) Starting the Bootstrapper’s Guide to Logistics podcast
(21:38) Recognizing the impact of frontline workers
(23:10) Integration as an underappreciated supply chain skill
(27:14) The future of supply chain: certainty over speed
Resources:
Tariffs are making headlines and shifting global trade dynamics faster than supply chains can react.
In this episode, Eric Fullerton, Head of Product Marketing at project44, breaks down what supply chain professionals can do to stay prepared in an unpredictable environment.Instead of focusing on the noise, Eric shares examples of how leading brands are using real-time visibility, predictive intelligence, and flexible strategies through project44’s Movement platform. Hear how companies across apparel, retail, and food & beverage are managing tariff risks, protecting margins, and making faster, smarter decisions in a rapidly changing market.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Eric Fullerton
(00:32) The unpredictable changes in tariff policies
(05:11) Real-time intelligence to mitigate tariff fees
(11:02) Strategies for optimizing freight and sourcing
(15:42) AI-powered ETAs, news, and communication
(23:35) Managing detention and demurrage to reduce costs
(26:13) Turning uncertainty into competitive advantage
Resources:
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
There’s no margin for error in pharmaceutical logistics when lives depend on timely delivery.
In this episode, Ammie McAsey, SVP of Customer Supply Chain Operations at McKesson, shares what it takes to run one of the most high-stakes supply chains in the world. From frontline teams answering late-night calls to patients relying on critical medication, people are at the center of every decision. She also recounts how McKesson stepped up during the COVID-19 pandemic to help distribute vaccines nationwide. Ammie reflects on the operational pressure, leadership lessons, and how technology like AI can support but never replace human judgment when the stakes are this high.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Ammie McAsey
(02:05) Pharma supply chain operations and distribution
(06:02) Navigating complex regulations with precision and speed
(09:53) People first service and leadership
(14:00) McKesson’s response to COVID-19 and vaccine distribution
(20:04) The role of AI and automation in supply chain management
(26:37) People are at the heart of the supply chain
Resources:
Connect with Ammie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ammie-mcasey-rabicke/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Disruption is everywhere, and so is opportunity—but only for those who know how to take advantage of it.
Former Chief Supply Chain Officer Bill Hutchinson shares why the best leaders don’t just react to change; they anticipate it and adapt fast. Drawing from his experience at Dell, Chewy, and Westrock, Bill shares how cross-industry knowledge sharpens leadership, where smart tech investments actually pay off, and why sustainability must be balanced with real-world business needs.
Stop scrambling to keep up and learn how to lead with confidence.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Bill Hutchinson
(02:07) Lessons in supply chain transformation from Dell, Westrock, Rite Aid
(06:36) Invest in technology with an ROI mindset
(13:58) Aligning business strategy with supply chain operations
(16:32) Career advice for supply chain students
(21:27) Adopting sustainability practices and AI smartly
(23:58) See the opportunity for disruption
Resources:
Connect with Bill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billhutchinson/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Supply chain success comes from controlling what we can. But no matter how well we execute, we can’t do it alone. Strong networks and lasting relationships are just as critical as operational efficiency.
In this episode, Michelle Livingstone, longtime industry leader and supply chain executive, shares the importance of balancing control and collaboration. She also explains the "shipper of choice" strategy and why strong relationships with carriers matter. Plus, she highlights the communication skills every supply chain professional needs and how sustainability and cost savings can go hand in hand.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Michelle Livingstone
(05:32) Controlling what you can for a resilient supply chain
(06:47) The shipper of choice strategy
(08:52) How sustainability can lead to cost savings
(12:42) Key communication skills in logistics
(17:45) The potential of autonomous trucking
Resources:
Connect with Michelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelledlivingstone/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
If you want something to improve, you measure it.
Michael Jacobs, SVP of Supply Chain at Ferguson Enterprises, believes that tracking the right metrics is the foundation of real change. In this episode, he shares how Ferguson uses perfect order index, on-time deliveries, and net promoter score to build a supply chain that puts customers first. He also explains how he balances the people, processes, and technology to drive transformation.
At Ferguson, the supply chain is more than a function; it’s the backbone of the business.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Michael Jacobs
(02:41) Ferguson Enterprises’ unique ecosystem
(08:16) The truth about AI and emerging tech in supply chains
(12:07) Why supply chain is Ferguson’s biggest competitive advantage
(17:40) Lateral moves for long-term career growth
(21:14) Benchmarking and learning from other industry leaders
(27:16) Why COVID reshaped supply chain strategy for the better
Resources:
Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-jacobs-bb31a78/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
A supply chain is designed to be efficient—reducing redundancies, cutting costs, and keeping things moving seamlessly.
But here’s the irony: the more efficient it becomes, the more fragile it can be when disruptions hit.
That’s why balancing efficiency with resilience is one of the biggest challenges in supply chain management. In this episode, David Null, former SVP of Supply Chain at Georgia-Pacific, shares what it takes to manage a $20 billion supply chain. He explains why technology is only as good as the processes behind it, how data visibility improves decision-making, and why a strong supply chain isn’t just about speed, it’s about being prepared for whatever comes next.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: David Null
(02:10) Inside Georgia-Pacific’s complex supply chain operations
(09:41) Better supply chain visibility through good data quality
(14:29) Georgia-Pacific’s pragmatic approach to sustainability
(17:18) The real impact of AI in supply chain decision-making
(21:12) Balancing efficiency, resilience, and customer satisfaction
(25:33) Teamwork and collaboration for supply chain success
(29:54) Why technology alone won’t solve supply chain challenges
Resources:
Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-null-883a034/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Effective supply chain management boils down to three key actions: know the facts, decide with clarity, and act decisively.
Keith Carter calls this actionable intelligence—having the right data at the right time to drive better outcomes.
As the CEO of KDA Capabilities and former Global Supply Chain Intelligence Lead at Estée Lauder, Keith discusses the opportunities and challenges of adopting AI in the supply chain. He addresses the fears surrounding AI, why cybersecurity should be a top priority, and how companies can use modern technology for faster product launches and improved operational efficiency.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Keith Carter
(00:51) Actionable intelligence in the supply chain
(06:45) Using technology and automation to scale
(09:19) Exploring the different use cases of AI in the supply chain
(20:18) Why you need to focus on cybersecurity
Resources:
Connect with Keith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithcarter/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
People are recognizing how supply chains shape daily life and drive business success.
As companies start to view them as competitive advantages, interest in the field and demand for skilled professionals are surging.In this episode, Ted Stank, Bruce Chair of Excellence at the University of Tennessee (one of the leading supply chain programs in the country) and Co-executive Director of the Global Supply Chain Institute, shares insights on preparing the next generation of supply chain leaders. He discusses the essential skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly changing landscape.
Ted also tackles one of the industry’s biggest challenges: uncertainty. From geopolitics to labor disruptions, he explains why companies must prioritize resilience over cost-cutting to stay competitive.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Ted Stank
(01:05) The evolution of supply chain management
(04:20) Building technical and soft skills in future supply chain leaders
(08:45) Why passion is the key to success in supply chain careers
(10:57) University of Tennessee’s supply chain program
(15:15) The Global Supply Chain Institute
(17:02) Supply chain resilience over cost reduction
(22:23) Talent recruitment, development, and retention of supply chain professionals
(24:00) Why supply chain is the most exciting industry today
Resources:
Connect with Ted: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-stank-724590/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Operating at the speed of the consumer means meeting demand, no matter how great.
Rick McDonald, former Chief Supply Chain Officer at Clorox, shares how his team tackled the surge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic while operating as an essential business. Clorox navigated one of the most challenging periods in supply chain history by limiting SKUs, prioritizing employee safety, and implementing effective change management strategies. Rick also shares insights from his remarkable career, including the importance of building strong relationships and embracing lateral career moves.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Rick McDonald
(04:13) How Clorox tackled COVID-19 challenges
(09:08) Inventory management: Just in time vs. just in case
(12:58) Honesty and humility as a leader
(15:58) Why lateral moves can fuel long-term success
(20:47) The one trait all great supply chain leaders share
(22:39) Overrated and underrated trends in supply chains
(24:10) Balancing human and digital assets for the future
Resources:
Connect with Rick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickmcdonald82/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
A strong supply chain keeps operations running and finances stable.
Because, after all, in logistics, 'cash is king.'
In this episode, Jackie Sturm, Corporate Vice President of Global Supply Chain Operations at Intel, shares her insights on the evolving role of supply chains. She explains how they drive profitability, mitigate risk, and ensure customer satisfaction—even amidst global disruptions.Jackie also discusses how supplier diversity and sustainable practices create stronger and more resilient supply chains. As a woman in leadership, she shares her perspective on building a pipeline of female talent to lead the future of supply chains.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Jackie Sturm
(03:53) Key lessons from Silicon Valley
(10:15) Why "cash is king" in supply chains
(13:26) Mitigate risk with preparation
(18:43) Intel’s supplier diversity initiative
(23:49) Sustainable practices that drive business success
(29:01) Empowering women as leaders in the supply chain
(33:22) The importance of building a strong network
Resources:
Connect with Jackie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-sturm/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Years of experience make you knowledgeable about an industry, but true leadership requires foresight and the courage to embrace change.
That’s why Jake Barr, CEO/Principal at BlueWorld Supply Chain Consulting, is a trusted voice in supply chain and logistics.
Reflecting on his remarkable 45-year career, Jake shares how supply chain operations have evolved over time. He discusses how leaders can tackle modern challenges like the “Amazon Effect " by leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance efficiency. With candid insights, Jake explains why companies must embrace change or risk being left behind in a rapidly shifting industry.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Jake Barr
(01:20) The Amazon Effect: More SKUs at higher speeds of delivery
(04:13) Transforming supply chains into profit drivers
(07:30) Lessons from 33 years at Procter & Gamble
(12:07) Key supply chain trends to look out for
(15:29) Practical applications of AI for high-velocity supply chains
(21:39) Career and leadership advice for supply chain professionals
Resources:
Connect with Jake: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-barr-3883501/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Applying AI in supply chains invites unique challenges and learnings.
But if used correctly, AI can bring great benefits.
In this episode, Amanda Cameron, AI and Machine Learning Customer Engineer Specialist at Google, explains how AI has transformed supply chain operations. Amanda has seen firsthand how leveraging AI can streamline processes, improve traceability, and boost efficiency.
Amanda explains how Google’s AI technology helps supply chain leaders stay ahead of challenges and setbacks, build resilient systems, and unlock new possibilities in inventory optimization and demand forecasting.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Amanda Cameron
(01:38) AI, machine learning, and data science in supply chains
(08:04) Predictive modeling and quality control in distribution centers
(13:12) Evolving mindsets in supply chain management
(15:35) Introducing new technologies into legacy supply chain processes
(17:42) Building AI strategies into supply chain management
(21:38) Cybersecurity in supply chain operations
(24:10) Human vs. AI decisions in supply chain management
(30:03) Blockchain, generative AI, and the future of transparency
Resources:
Visibility in supply chains has grown tremendously in the past couple of years. However, more work must be done to keep up with the increasing complexity of modern logistics.
In this episode, Bart De Muynck, Industry Thought Leader and former Gartner Analyst, discusses the evolution of modern supply chains. He shares insights from his extensive career and discusses the technology trends that are reshaping the industry.
Bart shares how high-quality data, AI, and automation can help tackle challenges like talent shortages and boost operational efficiency, giving the industry the push it needs toward digital maturity.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Bart De Muynck
(00:48) The creation of the Magic Quadrant
(06:11) The rising complexity of modern logistics
(08:43) Using more tech and automation in the supply chain
(12:06) Velocity is the ability to pivot and use data
(15:25) Overhyped or underhyped: AI in logistics
(17:41) Vision automation use cases
(21:10) Advice for newcomers in the supply chain industry
(23:36) Modernization and sustainability for the future of supply chains
Resources:
Connect with Bart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartdemuynck/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
Disruption is the new norm in global trade. As unexpected crises continue to shake the supply chain, the need for adaptability and resilience has never been greater.
Meet Sal Mercogliano, maritime historian and host of the What's Going on With Shipping podcast, who explains how key events, like the Ever Given Suez Canal obstruction, reveal deeper issues within the shipping industry.
Sal discusses the disruptions within modern supply chains, evolving maritime logistics, and how to increase your company’s adaptability.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Sal Mercogliano
(04:00) Educating the supply chain industry through podcasts
(07:20) Sal’s transition from merchant mariner to professor
(10:23) The effect of black swan events on global shipping
(14:05) Learning from history and planning for disruption
(17:16) “Supply web” not supply chain
(22:08) Ocean carriers' increasing control over shipping
(24:30) The interconnectedness of all modes of transport
Resources:
Connect with Sal
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatore-mercogliano-ph-d-95437729/
X: https://x.com/mercoglianos
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salvatore.mercogliano.1
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WhatisGoingonWithShippingwSalMercogliano
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
What does it take to manage one of the busiest rail terminals in the U.S.?
In this episode, Percy Fields, President and General Manager of The Belt Railway Company of Chicago, shares how he rose through the ranks from conductor to senior leadership. With 20 years of experience and deep family ties to railroading, Percy shares insights on managing large-scale operations and keeping 8,500 railcars on track daily.
At the core of the Belt Railway’s success is its unwavering commitment to safety. Percy emphasizes how prioritizing safety—from ensuring well-maintained infrastructure to promoting a strong safety culture among employees—minimizes disruptions and keeps operations running smoothly. With top-tier safety protocols, the Belt Railway ensures it can meet the daily demands of not only Chicago but also the larger U.S. supply chain.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Meet Supply Chain Champion: Percy Fields
(01:00) Entering the railroad industry
(06:02) “What breaks you, makes you”
(08:10) Why the Belt Railway is vital to Chicago's supply chain
(10:01) A day in the life at The Belt Railway Company of Chicago
(13:09) How to prioritize safety for smoother operations
(16:04) Percy’s career advice in embracing discomfort
(17:36) Be authentic in every role of your life
(20:35) How to prepare for setbacks
Resources:
Connect with Percy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/percy-fields-415040a1/
Connect with Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-fullerton-111ba71a/
Connect with project44: https://www.project44.com/
From natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes to pandemics, cyberattacks, and labor strikes, companies have to navigate so many complexities to get goods where they need to go.
What's their secret weapon to operating within the unknown?
It’s the people.
Welcome to Supply Chain Champions, the show that showcases the stories of those who keep supply chains running smoothly. We're here to highlight their untold stories and share lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Join us as we peel back the curtain on the people who make supply chains work and enhance your own career in the process.
Tune in. Get smart. Move forward.
