MBN USA

August 20, 2024

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Clinton: SupplierCon lets suppliers know they are valued

Q: Tell us about your background. How did you end up in supply chain procurement?

A: My career background is summed up in two industries. I started my journey in the aerospace and defense industry, preparing cost estimates for government proposals. I then moved into purchasing and contracts. That experience was a great foundation when I moved to the automotive industry and into my current chief procurement officer role. I was fortunate to work on many interesting projects in between procurement roles.

My first 15 years at Toyota provided me with opportunities to build better ways of working. It was a perfect fit for my passion to help build a better future and focus on process improvement or “kaizen,” which means continuous improvement. I led a variety of projects over 14 years before moving to my current procurement role. A few projects include accounts payable, enterprise resource planning, career development program, budgeting tools and vehicle benefits. Whatever the project, there were transferable learnings that helped round out my overall knowledge as a Toyota leader. These experiences have helped me as a procurement leader to understand Toyota operations and better understand internal customer needs.

On a personal note, I am one of 12 children. My upbringing was always about “we” not “me,” and so teamwork was ingrained from an early age. This philosophy carried over to my professional life and [has] served me well.

Q: What is your favorite thing about procurement and strategic sourcing?

A: Simply put, my favorite thing is the journey. Creating a productive environment and orchestrating multiple parties to deliver value across the supply chain. This [process] involves my team, internal business customers and current and potential suppliers. While it can be challenging, it is also extremely rewarding when we (the team) cross the finish line together; there is a feeling of win, win, win.

Q: SupplierCon 2024 just ended. What were some of the focal points and takeaways for attendees?

A: Partnership is key! SupplierCon provides the opportunity to meet in person, sometimes for the first time. The event is intended to create opportunities for our suppliers to network among Toyota team members at all levels. We mix business, fun, food and, of course, celebrations.

Q: The theme for SupplierCon 2024 was “Stronger Partnerships … Greater Success” Can you explain that theme in greater detail?

A: SupplierCon is one way we let our suppliers know they are valued. It is about sharing Toyota insights from key areas of business. SupplierCon is an opportunity to develop strong relationships and strengthen engagement beyond a contract transaction. It is our way to demonstrate our appreciation — through investing time, information-sharing and award recognition. We believe stronger partnerships result in greater outcomes for all.

Q: Diverse suppliers are making progress in corporate supply chains. What is the best way for their continued growth?

A: Continuous improvement!

• Know your customer. Build strong relationships, understand your customers’ goals, priorities, challenges and future direction.

• Invest in your talent pool and succession plans; ensure your company is strong and preparing for future growth.

• Deliver with excellence and consider how you are adding value beyond the contract. Be more than solution-providers; become innovative problem-solvers.

• Invest in your future. Be prepared for future growth. Company support needs can’t wait for suppliers to get ready for increased work demands. Explore partnerships to strengthen supplier capabilities or future growth.

Q: What is the biggest problem facing procurement currently? Is the supply chain disruption easing in the automotive industry?

A: Unfortunately, there are some bad players causing supply chain disruption. Cyber disruption is the fastest-growing challenge where no one is exempt.

Q: What will the new normal be for supply chains in the future, i.e., 2024-2027?

A: Business will move at an even faster pace, while becoming more complex. In addition to dealing with cyber disruption, there will be increased use of artificial intelligence, mandatory digital technology and automation — which will be the standard, not the exception. Supply chains will be required to continue to grow value across the board. Stronger partnerships and leveraging innovation for better and faster problem-solving are a must.

We are all in this together. More grit will bring more win-win-win!