Some of the brightest lights taking the reigns of the industry are already making a name for themselves at some notable companies, but supply chain rockstars don't always get the industry-wide recognition they deserve.
Take Katy Conrad for example. A natural leader who negotiates contracts for Shell's Global Commercial business, Katy was "flying under the radar" before David Allen nominated her for ThomasNet and ISM’s "30 Under 30" Rising Supply Chain Stars Recognition Program last year.
I asked David, the Functional Excellence Lead in Shell’s Downstream Contracting and Procurement Operational Excellence group, a few questions related to his decision to nominate Katy.
JS: What is your impression of this millennial generation – both professionally (having worked with Katy) and personally (as the father of a recent college graduate)?
DA: I believe that Millennials receive more criticism than they deserve. I have found Millennials to exhibit great energy and emotion and wish to make a positive impact in their workplace and in their community. Millennials are more inclined to be task orientated than time orientated and work all hours of the day to accomplish their objectives. They have strong connections to family and friends through social media and are tech-savvy. I also find Millennials to be very transparent with good collaborative skills. In my view, Millennials have distinctive skills and strengths and it is up to us as business and public leaders to engage with them productively to bring value to the workplace and external environment.
JS: What was the most rewarding part of seeing Katy Conrad selected as a Megawatt star?
DA: Seeing Katy selected as the Megawatt star of the "30 Under 30" program was extremely rewarding. To feel that I contributed in a small way as a coach and mentor to Katy’s success was very satisfying. I am thrilled to see our supply chain profession highlighted in such a positive way through the ThomasNet/ISM “30 Under 30” program and believe the program will attract higher caliber talent to our profession in the future. To see Katy and the other 29 winners recognized for their workplace successes, community achievements, and work with ISM gives a highly positive indication about the direction in which our supply chain profession is headed.
JS: Mentoring requires a dedicated investment in time and resources. Why should companies spend the time doing this?
DA: Mentoring staff and doing it well does take time, energy, and commitment. I believe mentoring brings huge value to companies who sponsor successful programs. Companies are able to quickly develop, train, and place staff with potential in leadership positions as well as increase employee retention. Good mentoring programs can improve the transfer of knowledge and sharing of best practices. Mentoring also advances the development of employee networks, which can assist when implementing company initiatives. I would offer that mentoring programs lead to a stronger and more effective corporate organization.
JS: You have been a big champion of ThomasNet and ISM’s program. What makes you so enthusiastic about it?
DA: Yes, I support the “30 Under 30” program because it’s a great concept. The individuals who are nominated for the program represent the future of our profession. Not only do these individuals provide value to their chosen companies, they give back their time, knowledge, and passion for success to further the supply chain profession. Further, these individuals will be role models to their peers and colleagues. It is outstanding that we are able to recognize them through such a program.
JS: What would you say to someone thinking about nominating a rising star?
DA: “Don’t hesitate… do it!” “Start filling out the nomination form right now!” Nominating a rising star is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your organization’s talented young staff. It brings well-deserved recognition to your company and highlights your company’s skills development and leadership programs. If picked as one of the 30, you and your nominee will receive recognition, which can translate into future success.
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