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In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Sofia Rivas Herrera are joined by Professor Yossi Sheffi. The conversation dives into key issues shaping the future of supply chains, from the evolving skillsets needed in the industry to the impact of AI and the importance of understanding supply chain dynamics. Professor Sheffi shares insights on risk-taking, sustainability challenges, and the role of supply chain knowledge in staying competitive, as well as a look at how trade policies and tariffs could affect global supply chains.

MIT’s Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL) has been recognized for offering some of the best free online supply chain courses, ranked among the top 35 MIT courses available online. With in-depth learning in supply chain management, logistics, and operations, CTL’s programs provide valuable skills to advance your career, all at no cost. These educational offerings are designed for both individuals and organizations looking to enhance their knowledge and skills, and are accessible to anyone with a desire to learn.

Supply chain expert and MIT Professor Yossi Sheffi offered insights on the impact of the recent disruptions at Stop & Shop, suggesting that recovery could be swift if the company can restore its systems safely. Read more to see what he had to say about the situation.

Professor Yossi Sheffi reminds us that technology does eliminate some jobs, but not all; it actually creates more opportunities. In this article by Brian Straight from Supply Chain Management Review, Sheffi is cited as providing examples of how embracing technology can lead to a future filled with new possibilities rather than merely fearing job loss.

In a revealing quote, Professor Yossi Sheffi emphasizes the importance of preparedness in today’s supply chains, stating, “People are prepared. Any company that did not invest in supply chain disruptions is not around.” This insight underscores how the banana industry—and businesses at large—have learned from past challenges, including the pandemic and global crises.

Professor Yossi Sheffi discussed the potential effects of automation on the workforce, particularly for dockworkers, in an interview with Associated Press reporter Cathy Bussewitz. The director of the MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics remarked, “You cannot bet against the march of technology,” in response to the massive strike by US dock workers in early October, 2024.

Supply chain influencers are key figures in the modern industry, shaping the future of logistics and operations management. These experts – often seasoned professionals and consultants – provide crucial insights into tackling challenges like sustainability, digitalization, and resilience. 

In this podcast episode, Professor Sheffi draws on insights from over 100 executive interviews to explore the intersection of sustainability and business. He discusses the generational shift toward environmental awareness, the evolving role of sustainability in supply chains, and the pressures faced by third-party logistics (3PLs) in the age of e-commerce giants. The conversation also touches on the impact of branding and price premiums, offering a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities businesses face in balancing profits with planet-friendly practices.

Today, businesses of all sizes must deliver to their customers against a backdrop of supply chain disruptions, with technological changes, shifting labor pools, geopolitics, and climate change adding new complexity and risk at a global scale. To succeed, they need to build resilient supply chains: fully digital operations that prioritize customers and their needs while establishing a fast, reliable, and sustainable delivery network.

This article is based on the latest episode of the Beyond the Box podcast. It explains what AI could mean for supply chains and logistics. What are AI’s capabilities? Where are the limitations? And how could it capitalize on human expertise?