Johan Van der Straeten - Leveraging consultants for planning, implementing new tools, and networking

In this episode, ⁠⁠⁠Ben⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Wim⁠⁠⁠ sit down with ⁠Johan Van der Straeten⁠, a supply chain leader with experience at Philips Lighting, PwC, and currently working as Group Supply Chain Manager at Reynaers Aluminium. 

Johan reflects on his journey from engineering to supply chain leadership, detailing his experiences in planning, procurement, and implementing strategic initiatives.  

He shares insights on setting up S&OP processes, leveraging AI in demand planning, and balancing sustainability with cost and quality considerations. Johan also discusses connecting legacy systems, fostering supplier collaboration, and the value of networking in supply chain planning. 

Key topics covered include: 

• Johan’s career journey across industry and consulting roles 

• Lessons learned transitioning from engineering to supply chain planning 

• Setting up S&OP processes and adapting them to business needs 

• Balancing sustainability goals with cost, quality, and service priorities 

• Leveraging AI in demand planning and defining the role of planners 

• Challenges of modernizing legacy systems and tools 

• The importance of networking and continuous learning

Key timestamps:

• (0:03) – Johan’s career path: from engineering to supply chain leadership 

• (2:42) – Key lessons from transitioning into supply chain planning 

• (6:33) – Insights into early S&OP experiences and challenges 

• (13:08) – When and why to involve consultants in strategic initiatives 

• (16:38) – Setting up S&OP processes and leveraging AI for forecasting 

• (22:06) – Defining planner roles and evolving organizational maturity 

• (27:07) – Challenges with legacy systems and transitioning to new tools 

• (33:34) – Integrating procurement and supply chain for better collaboration 

• (35:03) – Sustainability as a key parameter in procurement decisions 

• (39:01) – Networking tips for supply chain professionals and final thoughts 

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