Supply Chain Forum Agenda

An audience at the Spring 2024 Supply Chain Forum listens to speakers Ted Stank and Don Maier

April 8-10, 2025

The spring 2025 Supply Chain Forum will be held April 8-10, 2025, at the Marriott Knoxville Downtown. Below is an overview of the agenda. Detailed session descriptions, full speaker bios, exclusive resources, and more will be available to attendees closer to the event.

Tuesday, April 8

  • 2–3 p.m. Check-in and Registration
    Registration is required, and space is limited for both student networking events. When you register online, make sure to sign up for both events.
  • 3–4 p.m. Graduate Student and Corporate Partner Networking
    A structured opportunity for our talent specialists and others from our corporate partners to meet students currently enrolled in the Haslam College of Business’s No. 1 ranked graduate SCM programs: the full-time MBA and MS in Supply Chain Management Online.
  • 4–4:30 p.m. Break
  • 4:30–5:45 p.m. Scholars of Distinction and Corporate Partner Networking
    A dynamic and interactive networking session with UT’s Scholars of Distinction, a select group of rising second-, third-, and fourth-year SCM students who are eager to meet industry leaders across supply chain functions and gain firsthand knowledge of job opportunities and career paths.
  • 5:45–8 p.m. Welcome Reception
    Join us at the Opening Reception for hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and brief remarks from GSCI Co-Executive Director Ted Stank. This casual networking event is a great opportunity to connect with other supply chain professionals and UT faculty and staff.

Wednesday, April 9

  • 7:30–8 a.m. Breakfast and Check-in
    Stop by the registration table and enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet before a day of main and breakout sessions.
  • 8–8:15 a.m. Opening Remarks
    A brief welcome and update from GSCI Managing Director Thomas Deakins and Co-Executive Director Ted Stank.
  • 8:15–9:15 a.m. Main Session 1: Live Podcast Recording with Tractor Supply Chief Supply Chain Officer Colin Yankee
    Join us for a special live-audience podcast recording featuring GSCI Faculty Co-Executive Directors Tom Goldsby and Ted Stank as they interview Colin Yankee, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Tractor Supply Company. This engaging conversation will explore the company’s transportation and distribution center operations, supply chain growth strategies, and ongoing improvements in operational efficiency. Colin will share insights on balancing trade-offs between time, inventory, cost, and service, as well as how TSC is leveraging its extensive store network for an innovative, asset-light final-mile delivery strategy. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from a supply chain leader driving success in an evolving retail landscape!
  • 9:15–9:30 a.m. Break
  • 9:30–10:30 a.m. Main Session 2: The Evolving Landscape of Transportation: Challenges, Innovation, and the Road Ahead
    Join industry leaders Lane Kidd (The Trucking Alliance), Purvi Naik (Kimberly-Clark), and Brett Sant (Knight-Swift Transportation) for a fast-paced, insightful discussion on the biggest challenges and innovations shaping transportation supply chains today. Moderated by Yemisi Bolumole, the conversation will dive into transportation disruptions, labor shortages, AI-driven logistics, last-mile delivery strategies, sustainability in freight, and evolving regulations—all through the lens of real-world experience and forward-thinking solutions. Expect sharp insights, candid takeaways, and a look at what’s next for the future of transportation and logistics.
  • 10:30–10:45 a.m. Break
  • 10:45–11:45 a.m. Main Session 3: The Future of Supply Chain Planning: Agility, Technology, and Integration
    The future of supply chain planning isn’t about predicting what’s next—it’s about being ready for anything. In this session, Laura Smith (Shaw Inc.), Heather Kettlelhohn (Cummins), and Manuel Scavarda (Kimberly-Clark)—moderated by Andrea Prud-Homme—will explore how top companies are using AI, automation, and advanced planning strategies to stay agile in an unpredictable world. From real-time visibility and risk management to seamless integration across supply chain, commercial, and R&D functions, this discussion will highlight the key capabilities and innovations shaping the next generation of supply chain planning.
  • 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. Lunch and NeXxus Outstanding Woman in Supply Chain Award Presentation
    During lunch we will have a brief presentation of the 2025 NeXxus Outstanding Woman in Supply Chain Award. This year’s recipient is Darcy MacClaren, Global Chief Revenue Officer Supply Chain Management, SAP America.
  • 1–1:45 p.m. Main Session 4: Beyond Supply Chain: Mike Keith, the New Voice of the Vols
    As the new “Voice of the Vols,” Mike Keith takes on a role that carries decades of history and deep ties to Tennessee athletics. In this conversation, hosted by Ted Stank, Keith reflects on the leadership lessons learned throughout his career, the responsibility of shaping the fan experience, and his vision for the future of Vols broadcasting. With a career built on storytelling and connection, Keith offers a thoughtful perspective on what it means to take the mic for one of the most passionate fan bases in college sports.
  • 1:45–2:15 p.m. Break
  • 2:15–3 p.m. Breakout Sessions
    • Breakout #1: Rethinking Inventory: Corporate Trade as a Safety Net
      • Excess inventory is often seen as a liability—something to be offloaded at a loss in secondary markets. But what if there was another way? In this session, Anchor Trading explores how corporate trade can turn unproductive inventory into media spend, helping businesses recover value while protecting brand integrity. Instead of discounting or liquidating, companies can take a more strategic approach, using corporate trade to strengthen both their supply chain and marketing efforts.
    • Breakout #2: Uncovering Hidden Risks: Regulatory and Geopolitical Threats in Supply Chains
      • Supply chains are more than just logistics and costs—they are networks shaped by ownership structures, regulatory oversight, and geopolitical influence. Yet many companies don’t know where their biggest vulnerabilities lie. In this session, experts from Berkeley Research Group will examine how regulators assess supply chain risks, from the provenance of materials to hidden ownership structures and illicit access. Drawing on real-world examples, the discussion will highlight how organizations can identify and mitigate unseen threats—before they lead to compliance violations or security breaches. As scrutiny from agencies like CFIUS increases, understanding these risks is no longer optional—it’s essential.
    • Breakout #3: Future-Ready Procurement: Unveiling the Latest Insights
      • Procurement teams are being asked to do more than ever—but are they equipped for what’s ahead? In this session, the Global Supply Chain Institute releases its latest white paper, Future-Ready Procurement, offering a deep dive into the capabilities that will define success in the years to come. From strengthening customer value to building resilient talent pipelines and integrating procurement into broader business strategy, this research provides a roadmap for teams looking to move beyond cost-cutting and become true strategic partners. Join us for a conversation on what’s next for procurement and how leading companies are preparing for the future.
    • Breakout #4A: Transportation Roundtable: Challenges, Innovations, and What’s Next*
      • The transportation industry is facing rapid change. Rising costs, regulatory shifts, new technologies, and evolving customer demands are forcing supply chain and logistics professionals to adapt in real time. Moderated by Yemisi Bolumole, Director of the Transportation and Logistics Collaborative, this open roundtable is a space for candid discussion—no presentations, no slides, just a conversation about the biggest challenges and opportunities in transportation today. Whether you’re tackling capacity constraints, exploring sustainability initiatives, or navigating disruptions, bring your insights and questions for a dynamic exchange of ideas.
    • Breakout #4B: Rethinking Supply Chain Planning: A Roundtable Conversation**
      • In an unpredictable business environment, planning has never been more critical—or more challenging. Moderated by Lance Saunders, this open roundtable invites supply chain professionals to engage in a candid discussion about the evolving role of planning in today’s dynamic landscape. With no set agenda, this session is an opportunity to share insights, discuss common challenges, and explore new approaches to balancing demand, supply, and risk. Whether you’re focused on S&OP, forecasting, scenario planning, or agility in decision-making, bring your experiences and questions for an interactive exchange of ideas.
    • Breakout #5: On-Boarding Young Professionals: Setting Up New Hires for Success
      • The jump from college to career isn’t always smooth. Young professionals step into new roles with plenty of potential—but without the right support, they can struggle to find their footing. Moderated by Cole Burns, this session brings together recent alumni now working at top companies to share what worked (and what didn’t) during their transition into the workforce. From making the most of onboarding programs to navigating workplace culture and finding mentors, this conversation will highlight what companies can do to set new hires up for long-term success. Whether you’re leading a team, starting your career, or just curious about how organizations can better develop young talent, join us for an open discussion on what it really takes to thrive early on.
    • Breakout #6: Advance Your Career at a Top Supply Chain University
      • Looking to elevate your expertise in supply chain management? Moderated by Izabela VanDeest, this session explores how the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Haslam College of Business—ranked No. 1 in North America for graduate supply chain programs—offers a range of educational opportunities designed to help professionals grow. From the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online to specialized SCM Academies like the SCM Leadership Academy, SCM Finance Academy, and SCM Planning Academy, UT provides flexible programs tailored to different career stages. Whether you’re looking to develop leadership skills, enhance financial acumen, or refine supply chain planning strategies, these programs offer industry-relevant learning in accessible formats. Join us to learn how UT’s top-tier supply chain education can support your professional growth and career advancement.

*Breakout 4A will only be offered during the first window
**Breakout 4B will only be offered during the second window

  • 3:00–3:15 p.m. Break
  • 3:15–4 p.m. Breakout Sessions (Repeat)
  • 4:00-5 p.m. Break
  • 5–7 p.m. Partners Reception at Knoxville Museum of Art
    Network with your peers at the Knoxville Museum of Art, a stunning space designed by renowned architect Edward Larrabee Barnes. This special reception will showcase poster presentations from seniors in the Smith Global Leadership Scholars program, highlighting their recently completed honors theses. It’s a unique opportunity for partners to engage with undergraduate research, gain insight into emerging supply chain talent, and connect with some of UT’s brightest upcoming graduates.

Thursday, April 10

  • 7:45–8:30 a.m. Breakfast
  • 8:30–9:30 a.m. Main Session 5: Procurement Panel
    Session Description coming soon.
  • 9:30–9:45 a.m. Break
  • 9:45–10:45 a.m. Main Session 6: The Economy and Supply Chains: Navigating an Uncertain Future
    Economic shifts, labor challenges, and geopolitical uncertainty continue to shape the supply chain landscape in ways that demand attention. Featuring economist and former White House advisor Marianne Wanamaker and moderated by Tom Goldsby, this session will explore the latest economic trends and their direct impact on supply chain management. How should businesses respond to inflationary pressures? What do labor market shifts mean for supply chain resilience? And how can companies position themselves for success in an evolving global economy? Join us for a data-driven discussion on the state of the economy and what it means for supply chain leaders moving forward.
  • 10:45–11 a.m. Break
  • 11:00–11:45 a.m. Main Session 7: Breaking Boundaries: Thought-Provoking Research in Supply Chain Management
    The supply chain landscape is evolving—but are we asking the right questions to shape its future? Moderated by John-Patrick Paraskevas, this faculty lightning round brings together leading scholars to challenge conventional wisdom and present bold, research-driven insights into the biggest issues facing supply chains today. From resilience and digital transformation to sustainability and economic volatility, these rapid-fire presentations will push the conversation forward, sparking new ways of thinking about complex global challenges. Expect fresh perspectives, rigorous analysis, and ideas that will leave you questioning what’s next for supply chain management.
  • 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. Lunch and Closing Remarks
    Enjoy lunch while we wrap up the Spring 2025 Supply Chain Forum with final announcements and key takeaways. This session will provide important updates, acknowledgments, and a look ahead to future events.

Access Exclusive Content

The GSCI app offers exclusive Supply Chain Forum content, such as speaker profiles, student resumes, event maps, announcements, photography, and other resources.

Previous Agendas

If you’re curious about what topics were covered and who spoke at previous Supply Chain Forum events, explore the content below.