Agenda

Optional

Private tour of 3M Innovation Center

During lunch, the tables will be divided into functional areas so leaders can pick where they want to sit and connect with other supply chain executives:

• Planning
• Logistics
• Technology
• Talent

Panel

Future of Women in AI: Advancing Technical Leadership and Impact

Ilona Sroka, Global Logistics, Vice President at 3M (Moderator)
Venkat Krishnan, Transportation Technology Director at 3M
Amanda Sparks, GVP, National Replenishment & Planning, Albertson Companies
Rowina Fórnica, Head of Supply Chain Excellence at Ford Motor Company

An off‑the‑record discussion focused on the evolving intersection of AI, digital transformation, and leadership for women in supply chain. This closed‑door session moves beyond high‑level narratives to examine the real dynamics shaping career growth-building credibility in data‑driven environments, influencing decisions in tech‑enabled operations, and navigating visibility within increasingly algorithmic and automated organizations. Participants will hear insights from experienced technology and operations leaders and gain practical guidance on developing technical fluency, leading digital initiatives, and strengthening support for emerging talent across the enterprise.

Following our afternoon of conversations and case studies, we’ll all go out for a fantastic dinner together. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with your fellow members before a big day of brainstorming, discussion, and collaboration.

The conversations over coffee and eggs at this event are often more lively than any other conference’s happy hour. You’ll want to be here bright and early (and on time). 

Case Study

Airfreight is a Four-Letter Word; 3M’s Journey to AI-Enabled Modal Optimization

Joe Garvin, Director of Global Logistics at 3M

Reducing reliance on airfreight is easier said than done, especially in a global, high-complexity network where urgency is often baked into decision-making. Join Joe Garvin, Director of Global Logistics at 3M, for a candid look at how 3M tackled airfreight reduction by shifting from reactive expediting to AI-enabled, data-driven modal optimization. This session will explore how digital tools helped challenge legacy assumptions, improve cross-functional decision discipline, and rebalance service, cost, and resilience without compromising customer service levels.

Case Study

Cracking the Code for Early-Career Retention at Ricoh

Todd Ahern, VP Supply Chain, Ricoh

Many organizations are struggling to keep early-career supply chain talent, as employees leave after one or two years in search of faster growth or better pay. In this candid case study, Todd Ahern, Vice President Supply Chain at Ricoh, shares how the organization reframed its talent strategy, shifting the focus from compensation alone to building richer, more varied early-career experiences. By introducing structured job rotations, cross-functional exposure, and clearer development paths, Ricoh moved from rapid turnover to multi-year retention. Todd will discuss what finally “cracked the code,” how the program was structured, and what other supply chain leaders can do to keep high-potential talent engaged beyond the first few years.

Workshop

Measuring What Actually Matters: KPIs and Dashboards

Angela Patrick, NAM & EMEA Purchasing Director at Greif

With the flood of dashboards and KPIs, it’s easy to lose sight of what metrics truly drive performance. Are your measures encouraging the right behaviors — or just adding noise? In this peer-led discussion, join Angela Patrick, NAM & EMEA Purchasing Director at Greif, as we explore how organizations are redefining metrics to balance service, cost, sustainability, and resilience. Join peers to talk through which metrics you’ve stopped using, which ones actually drive accountability, and how you’re tying performance measurement back to business outcomes.

Workshop

The New Risk Landscape: Planning Through Constant Disruption

The past few years have tested every assumption about cost, service, and resilience. What began as a series of shocks has turned into a steady drumbeat of uncertainty—from trade policy shifts to regional conflicts to sudden capacity constraints.

In this discussion, supply chain leaders will share how their approach to risk is changing. Where are they building buffers, and where are they holding the line on cost? How are they segmenting suppliers, rethinking planning horizons, or redesigning networks to handle the next disruption—whatever form it takes?

Meet up with a buddy or make a new friend during this open networking lunch hour.

EXAMPLE TOPICS:

• Winning the talent war – attracting and growing top talent
• Network design – reduce cost, boost agility
• Scope 3 – tracking and reducing emissions
• Supply chain tech stack – what’s worth the investment?

EXAMPLE TOPICS:

• Decision automation – what’s realistic?
• Managing risk – building resilience
• Evolving your IBP process
• 3PLs – when to use, when to skip

EXAMPLE TOPICS:

• The new vendor landscape – platforms vs. specialists
• From control towers to command centers
• The sustainability premium – profit driver or cost center?
• AI-native planning – what comes after automation?