When the disruption in global supply chains is a consequence of deliberate government decisions, what can managers do?

In this talk, Professor Tsinopoulos will discuss the key factors that enable a seamless supply chain and the benefits of listening to suppliers when pursuing innovation in new product development.  He will then explain the impact political events had on the effective and efficient flow of information by focusing particularly on Brexit.  Using examples from his own work he will explain how technology, flexibility and careful process design can be used to manage situations where politics trump good business thinking.

Global supply chains are complex and dynamic networks of interdependent firms that produce and deliver goods and services to customers across the world. When managed correctly, they can help lower costs, raise customer satisfaction, and improve access to markets. Furthermore, suppliers who are often competent businesses, can be an excellent source of innovation.  They can provide ideas and informed solutions to the problems their customers are facing.  However, supply chains also face constant challenges, such as uncertainty, disruption, and competition. To deal with these challenges, supply chain managers have been advocating for government policies that enable the free and uninterrupted flow of information.  This assumes a common set of rules and standards.  Big economic blocks, such as the EU and NAFTA have provided an ideal backdrop for supply chains to operate effectively.  Yet, recent political developments have put this trend at a risk.  Brexit in the EU and barriers to trade in the US are two relatively recent examples where politics have been deliberately undermining the effective integration of supply chains.