In this episode, Justin Smith interviews Ralph Asher, an expert in network design and optimization. Ralph shares his background working at Target and General Mills, where he focused on supply chain design. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of network design during mergers and acquisitions, as well as the importance of data management in the process. Ralph also talks about his experience at Target, where he worked on omni-channel and last-mile e-commerce network design. He then shares his transition to independent consulting and the importance of marketing and sales in running a consulting business. Ralph Asher discusses the transition from working in-house to running his own consulting agency and the types of projects his team works on. They specialize in supply chain design, inventory optimization, network design, manufacturing optimization, and data analysis. They work with a wide range of sectors, but the common thread is that their clients want a data-driven approach. Ralph also highlights the importance of data in making supply chain decisions and dispels the misconception that perfect data is necessary. He emphasizes the impact of their projects, such as opening new facilities and changing organizations' approach to inventory optimization. Ralph discusses the handoff process and the role of supply chain project managers in executing the recommendations. He also mentions the increasing trend of using supply chain models for shorter-term decision-making.

Key Takeaways

• Network design and optimization play a crucial role in supply chain decision-making, especially during mergers and acquisitions.
• Data management is a significant challenge when integrating supply chain models from different companies during M&A.
• Omni-channel and last-mile e-commerce network design require innovative approaches and considerations for proximity to customers.
• Transitioning to independent consulting requires a focus on marketing, sales, and business administration in addition to supply chain expertise.
• Professional networks and public speaking engagements are effective sources of business for independent consultants. Transitioning from in-house to running a consulting agency involves working on a wide range of projects for different organizations.
• Supply chain design, inventory optimization, network design, and manufacturing optimization are some of the key projects Ralph's team works on.
• Their clients value a data-driven approach and are willing to provide data for analysis and recommendations.
• Data quality is not a barrier to making supply chain decisions, and even limited data can be used to make strategic insights.
• The impact of their projects includes opening new facilities and changing organizations' approach to inventory optimization.
• Supply chain project managers play a crucial role in executing the recommendations and coordinating with stakeholders.
• Supply chain models can be used for shorter-term decision-making and provide insights for adjusting strategies.
• Ralph emphasizes the importance of professional development for individuals working on supply chain projects.

Connect with Ralph Asher

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphasher/
• https://datadrivensupplychain.com/

Connect with Justin Smith

• https://smithcre.com/
• https://www.lee-associates.com/
• [email protected]
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbsmith