Hadi Eghlidi - Demand management, data science & AI, and supply chain planning within the semiconductor industry

In this episode, ⁠Ben⁠ and ⁠Wim⁠ speak with ⁠Hadi Eghlidi⁠, Head of Demand Management at VAT Group.

Hadi shares his journey from a background in data science and technology development to his current role in supply chain planning.

We discuss the challenges of navigating a complex global supply chain, particularly in the semiconductor industry. 

Key topics covered include: 

• Hadi's career path from data science and R&D to demand management 

• How machine learning and data analytics are transforming demand planning at VAT 

• The impact of the global chip shortage on VAT’s supply chain and how they’ve managed volatility 

• The role of data-driven decision making in supply chain planning 

• Building teams with the right balance of technical skills and business knowledge 

⁠Hadi's LinkedIn profile⁠

TIMESTAMPS

• (0:03) – Introduction to the podcast  

• (0:22) – Welcoming Hadi Eghlidi, Head of Demand Management at VAT Group 

• (0:44) – Hadi’s background: From academia and data science to supply chain 

• (1:52) – Developing a machine learning-driven demand forecasting tool 

• (2:55) – Transitioning from technology development to supply chain—challenges and insights 

• (4:15) – Introduction to VAT Group and its market in the semiconductor industry 

• (6:47) – The impact of the global chip shortage on VAT’s supply chain 

• (9:00) – The bullwhip effect in the semiconductor industry 

• (10:42) – How VAT gathers market intelligence and uses external KPIs for forecasting 

• (12:19) – The role of data science in supply chain management at VAT 

• (14:43) – Balancing in-house development with external tools for supply chain analytics 

• (19:00) – The importance of dual profiles - blending data science with business skills 

• (22:34) – Collaboration between sales and demand management teams at VAT 

• (25:07) – Tracking KPIs and the importance of continuous improvement in forecasting 

• (27:05) – How Hadi mentors his team and supports continuous learning 

• (30:45) – Hadi’s recommended reading: The Goal by Eliyahu Goldratt and The Toyota Way by Jeffrey Liker