Auto Supply Chain Prophets Quistem and QAD

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets podcast, hosts Terry Onica and Jan Griffiths are joined by Cathy Fisher and Alexis Scipio to talk about their new eBook called "Delivering on the Promise of Delivering: Automotive Sustainability and Profitability." 
Discover why ESG is becoming increasingly important in the automotive industry and why you should care. Alexis explains how sustainability can lead to profitability and what benefits companies get from having solid sustainability strategies. 
We'll explore how ESG is now part of industry standards like MMOG/LE and quality management systems. Organizations must now consider their environmental impact and align their operations with sustainability objectives, a shift that Terry, Cathy, and Alexis aim to support through their upcoming eBook.
Terry talks about the crucial role of technology in supporting ESG initiatives, citing examples such as supplier relationship management tools and ERP systems. Cathy explains how ESG relates to the 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes, which could help organizations integrate ESG into their operations.
Their combined expertise in ESG, quality management systems, and supply chain management led to an eBook that simplifies complicated regulations into a digestible format. It's a lifesaver for leaders industry leaders who are overwhelmed by the task of navigating numerous regulations.
The episode concludes with advice encouraging listeners to embrace ESG proactively. It reminds us that ESG is not a passing trend but a fundamental aspect of automotive operations that requires immediate attention and action.
Themes discussed in this episode:
How supply chain, quality, and ESG intersect in the automotive industryESG’s growing importance in the automotive industryHow sustainability can lead to profitabilityThe relationship between ESG and industry standards such as MMOG/LEWhy we should focus on implementing ESG practicesThe role of technology in supporting ESG initiativesThe overwhelming complexity of ESG requirements
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Alexis Scipio
Title: Founder, The Thrive Point
About: Alexis Scipio is a seasoned ESG aficionado and supply chain professional with over 15 years of experience in the automotive industry. She’s the Founder of The Thrive Point LLC. and a certified diversity specialist who passionately integrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into business processes.
Connect: LinkedIn
Name: Cathy Fisher
Title: Founder and President, Quistem
About: As Quistem's driving force, Cathy helps its clients, particularly automotive manufacturers, eliminate customer complaints and increase their profits. She has worked in the automotive supply chain since the 1980s when she started her career with General Motors.
Connect: LinkedIn
Mentioned in this episode:
a href="https://www.qad.com/documents/white-papers/qad-leveraging-risk-management-automotive.pdf"

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets podcast, hosts Jan Griffiths and Terry Onica welcome Shiv Tailor, the VP of Enterprise Technology for Volta Trucks, to discuss the challenging journey of a startup in the electric vehicle (EV) industry and Volta Trucks' comeback to the EV business.
Shiv brings exciting news that Volta Trucks is back in action and is preparing to launch its electric commercial vehicles in Europe by the end of this year. Reflecting on Volta's journey, Shiv emphasizes the lessons learned. He stresses the importance of focusing on customer needs and the business's core value proposition.
Shiv advises startups entering mass production to pay attention to detail, from supply base maturity to financial planning. He also points out the significance of optimizing processes, nurturing strong relationships with partners, and prioritizing workforce well-being for operational success.
Shiv highlights the importance of QAD's comprehensive training course based on 24 essential supply chain processes, which helped them align their team's understanding of the supply chain and automotive best practices.
Sharing his perspective on quality management, Shiv advocates partnership-driven relationships with suppliers and shares Volta's proactive approach to ensure product quality and reliability.
Shiv explores the critical role of IT and data strategies in managing supplier collaborations and enhancing operational efficiency. They discuss the significance of technology in fostering transparency, streamlining processes, and driving innovation, with Shiv sharing insights on Volta's approach to leveraging emerging technologies like Gen AI.
The episode ends with Shiv's advice for EV startups and pioneers, urging them to focus on what truly matters for the business's success.
Themes discussed in this episode:
The challenges startups face in starting a business in the EV sectorFocusing and aligning with customer needs to drive success in the automotive industryLessons learned from Volta Trucks' revival, emphasizing the value of streamlining operations and identifying core value propositionsThe complexities of mass production, including the need for robust supply chain maturity, adequate capital, and efficient processesThe critical role of relationships and collaboration with suppliers in ensuring successful production outcomesCollaborating to develop quality standards and ensuring quality in productionThe significance of technology and data strategies in managing supplier collaborations and enhancing operational efficiencyThe potential of emerging technologies like AI to drive innovation and improve customer experience
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Shiv Tailor
Title: VP Enterprise Technology at Volta Trucks
About: Shiv Tailor, VP of Enterprise Technology at Volta Trucks, drives digital transformation and agile strategies for the company's mission to enhance urban sustainability with fully electric trucks. With a decade of automotive industry experience, Shiv's expertise spans telecommunications, electronic engineering, project governance, program delivery, and lean manufacturing. Under his leadership, Volta Trucks has swiftly implemented Salesforce, ERP, and PLM systems, facilitating the successful launch of nine products across various platforms.
Connect: a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivtailor/" rel="noopener...

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets Podcast, hosts Terry Onica and Jan Griffiths discuss the importance of improving supply chain efficiency in the auto industry. They are joined by Wendy Horwitz, Corporate MMOG/LE Senior Manager, and Jeffrey Baltazar, Vice President of Manufacturing at TS Tech Americas, Inc., to talk about the challenges and benefits of embracing change and implementing MMOG/LE standards.
The conversation focuses on TS Tech's MMOG/LE journey. Jeffrey discusses the challenges of obtaining executive management commitment, particularly in a culturally diverse organization like TS Tech. He stressed the importance of showing the benefits of MMOG/LE in terms of efficiency and cost savings.
Wendy elaborates on the role of education and communication in garnering employee buy-in, stressing the need for understanding and alignment with company goals. She highlights the significance of leadership support and the establishment of dedicated teams to drive the implementation process. 
They explore practical aspects of TS Tech's initiatives, including developing internal tools and systems to facilitate compliance and performance tracking. Wendy explains how they use the tools to automate processes and enhance visibility across multiple locations.
Jeffrey and Wendy encourage listeners to start their MMOG/LE journey early and emphasize the competitive advantage it brings. Additionally, they advise leaders to be proactive in embracing change and to see it as an opportunity to grow and improve.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Updating standards and practices for supply chain efficiency.The importance of standards like MMOG/LE in the manufacturing process.The crucial role of top management support for successful supply chain initiatives.Utilizing technology to streamline supply chain processes and enhance visibility.Empowering employees through training and involvement in process improvement.Overcoming cultural barriers to foster collaboration and alignment.The significant value of continuous learning and evaluation for sustained success.Advantages of adopting supply chain standards early for competitive advantage.
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Jeffrey Baltazar
Title: Vice President of Manufacturing at TS Tech Americas, Inc.
About: Jeffrey is the Vice President of Manufacturing at TS Tech Americas, Inc. With a strong focus on continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, Jeffrey leverages his expertise in manufacturing, lean manufacturing, operations management, engineering, and more to drive excellence in operations. Endorsed by colleagues for his proficiency in various areas, including Six Sigma, ISO standards, and value stream mapping, Jeffrey is committed to optimizing processes and enhancing efficiency within the automotive industry.
Connect: LinkedIn

Name: Wendy Horwitz
Title: Corporate MMOG/LE Senior Manager at TS Tech Americas, Inc.
About: Wendy serves as the Corporate MMOG/LE Senior Manager at TS Tech Americas, Inc. With a focus on spearheading the development of a new Corporate MMOG/LE program for the Americas Region, Wendy brings extensive

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets Podcast, hosts Terry Onica and Jan Griffiths interview Matt Pohlman, the CEO of Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). They discuss the organization's response to the rapidly changing automotive industry and how AIAG is keeping pace with technological advancements, regulatory changes, supply chain challenges, and the rise of EV OEMs.
They explore the role of AIAG in setting industry standards and providing essential training for supply chain professionals. Matt highlights AIAG's collaboration with Wayne State University and offers their innovative training programs. Matt emphasizes the significance of adapting to new challenges while maintaining tried-and-true practices. 
Matt stresses the importance of sustainability and corporate responsibility in today's automotive supply chain. He emphasizes AIAG's commitment to addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns in the supply chain, particularly in light of forced labor regulations and other risks.
Matt advises supply chain leaders to acknowledge the need for change. He emphasizes the importance of agility, flexibility, and collaboration within the industry. He also encourages the listeners to embrace progress over perfection and engage with AIAG to stay informed and proactive in addressing industry challenges.
Themes discussed in this episode:
The significant transformation of the automotive industryThe role of organizations such as AIAG in industry evolutionUpdating standards and practices for supply chain adaptationEmpowering supply chain leaders to prepare them for the futureThe importance of MMOG/LE in enhancing supply chain processesEnvironmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerationsCollaboration with EV OEMs and startupsEmbracing agility and flexibility Understanding the cultural impact of technological changes on the auto supply chain
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Matt Pohlman
Title: Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG)
About: Matt is currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). With over 30 years of experience as a Global Supply Chain Executive, Matt has a proven track record of success in leading global supply chain organizations, processes, and transformations. His expertise lies in driving a culture of change, generating significant cost savings, and aligning enterprise goals with strategic business direction. Matt excels in leveraging enterprise operating system models to integrate and connect supply chain teams, processes, and functions while also employing lean techniques to drive transformative change and improve operating results and team performance.
Connect: LinkedIn
Mentioned in this episode:
Supply Chain Management Steering Committee a...

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets podcast, Jan Griffiths and Terry Onica interview Robert Cameron, Chairman of the Board at Odette International and VDA's Head of Production, Logistics, and Aftermarket Department.
Robert shares their mission to digitize the automotive supply chain, including the initiative to adopt API technology and develop standards to support the auto industry's electrification.
The discussion covers the latest on MMOG/LE, noting its success with larger OEMs like Ford and Volvo trucks. Robert stresses how these standards streamline processes, cut costs, and improve supply chain quality.
Robert also explores ESG practices and European legislative compliance, touching on packaging laws, decarbonization, and hazard management. He underscores the need for guidelines to support smaller businesses to adhere to upcoming supply chain laws. 
Wrapping up, Robert urges leaders to be transparent with customers and suppliers. While he acknowledges the challenges of dealing with unfair players, he emphasizes the need for collaboration, especially in times of crisis.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Importance of transparency and cooperation in the automotive supply chain.Digital transformation of the automotive supply chain.Adoption of API technology for enhanced communication among stakeholders.The enduring significance of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) in automotive supply chains.Challenges faced by the industry, including supply chain stabilization post-pandemic.Initiatives for decarbonization and environmental sustainability.Impact of industry standards like MMOG/LE on process efficiency.Need for standardized ESG reporting and guidance for businesses.Emphasis on fair treatment and collaboration to address future crises effectively.
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Hugh Robert Cameron
Title: Head of Production, Logistics, and Aftermarket Department at Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) and Chairman of the Board at Odette International.
About: Meet Robert Cameron, a key figure in the automotive industry. As the Head of the Production, Logistics, and Aftermarket Department at VDA, he leads initiatives to enhance communication between OEMs and suppliers, driving efficiency and innovation. Additionally, as Chairman and Member of the Board at Odette International, Robert champions projects to increase supply chain transparency through technologies like EDI and RFID. With his expertise, Robert is shaping the future of automotive supply chains.
Connect: LinkedIn

Mentioned in this episode:
IAA - Internationale Automobil-AusstellungREST-API & EDIFACTa href="https://autosupplychainprophets.com/episode/revving-up-the-supply-chain-exploring-the-future-of-automotive-edi"...

At the heart of The Prophets’ vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here
The demand for reliable battery solutions has surged as the auto industry moves towards EVs. In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets Podcast, hosts Jan and Terry tackle the critical issues surrounding start-ups as they face the challenges of scaling up in this exciting new field of battery technology.
They invited Benjamin Ferstad and Jan Børge Sagmo from ZNL Energy, a tech startup at the forefront of innovative battery technology, to explore this topic. 
The conversation covers various aspects, including ZNL's breakthrough technology that addresses the safety concerns associated with battery hazards, ZNL's mission to commercialize next-generation battery technology, the supply chain challenges they face in sourcing materials, and the impact of legislation such as the IRA Act in the US on their startup.
Moreover, they discuss ZNL's strategies for ensuring a smooth startup operation, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships and seeking expertise where needed. The dialogue extends to managing suppliers effectively and understanding the dynamic nature of customer requirements, highlighting ZNL's customer-centric approach.
Finally, Jan and Benjamin offer valuable advice for aspiring tech startups, emphasizing the need for boldness in selling their product early and the importance of building a solid team to handle diverse tasks, allowing the CEO to focus on strategic growth and fundraising initiatives.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Challenges of battery performance Importance of addressing battery safety concerns in electric vehiclesZNL Energy's innovative battery separator technologySupply chain challenges and opportunities in the battery industryThe impact of legislation like the IRA Act on tech startupsStrategies for managing suppliers and fostering strategic partnershipsPrioritizing customer engagement and feedback in product developmentScaling up operations effectively in a startup environmentAdvice for tech startups on delegation and focusing on core responsibilities as CEO
Featured on this episode: 
Name: Benjamin Ferstad
Title: Chief Executive Officer, ZNL Energy
About: Benjamin is a seasoned management professional known for his exceptional interpersonal abilities and adeptness in P&L management within global corporate settings. Armed with a Master of Science degree in Industrial Economics from the University of Stavanger and a Bachelor of Science in Subsea Technology from Bergen University College, Benjamin brings a wealth of expertise in financial data analysis and process optimization.
Connect: LinkedIn

Name: Jan Børge Sagmo
Title: Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer, ZNL Energy
About: Jan is a process engineer and manager serving as the Strategy and Marketing Officer at ZNL Energy, where they’re revolutionizing battery technology with an innovative separator, ZnL-NPx. With a background in chemical engineering, he led successful ventures like Bergen Carbon Solutions, and he’s passionate about investing, writing, and contributing to cutting-edge developments in technology and beyond.
Connect: a...