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
    Welcome to the Spring 2025 Supply Chain Forum. Partners may check in with volunteers at the desk. Registration is required to attend the day’s two student networking events. Space is limited, so make sure to sign up early!
  • 3–4 p.m. Graduate Student and Corporate Partner Networking
    A structured opportunity for talent specialists at 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 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—Balancing Trade-Offs and Leveraging Networks to Deliver Innovation with Tractor Supply CSCO Colin Yankee (Live Podcast Recording)
    This engaging conversation, moderated by GSCI’s Tom Goldsby and Ted Stank, will explore Tractor Supply’s transportation and distribution center operations, supply chain growth strategies, and ongoing improvements in operational efficiency. Yankee 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 asset-light final-mile delivery strategy. This will also serve as a live recording of the Tennessee on Supply Chain Management podcast. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from an experienced supply chain executive 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 what’s to come. In this session, Laura Smith, VP of corporate planning and inventory productivity for Shaw Industries, Heather Kettlelhohn, executive director for global supply chain planning for Cummins, and Manuel Scavarda, VP of North America Supply Chain Planning for Kimberly-Clark 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, moderated by Andrea Prud’homme, will highlight the 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, students from the Tennessee Association of Supply Chain will present the 2025 NeXxus Outstanding Woman in Supply Chain Award. This year’s recipient is Darcy MacClaren, global chief revenue officer of supply chain management for SAP America.
  • 1–1:45 p.m. Main Session #4—Beyond Supply Chain with Mike Keith, the New ‘Voice of the Vols’
    As the new “Voice of the Vols,” Mike Keith takes on a role with decades of rich history and deep ties to the winning Tennessee Athletics tradition. In this conversation with Ted Stank, Keith reflects on leadership lessons from throughout his career, the responsibility of shaping fan experiences, and his vision for the future of broadcasting. With a career built on storytelling and connection, he offers a thoughtful perspective on what it means to take the mic for one of the most passionate fanbases 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 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 logistics and costs. They are networks shaped by ownership structures, regulatory oversight, and geopolitical influence. Yet many companies don’t know where their 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 violations or security breaches. As scrutiny from regulatory agencies increases, understanding these risks is no longer optional, it’s essential.
    • Breakout #3—Future-Ready Procurement: Unveiling the Latest Insights
      • Procurement teams are now asked to do more than ever. But are they equipped for what’s ahead? In this session, the Global Supply Chain Institute will release its latest white paper, Future-Ready Procurement, offering a deep dive into capabilities that will define success in the years to come. From strengthening customer value and building resilient talent pipelines to 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 author and UT professor Dan Pellathy to learn how leading companies are preparing for the future.
    • Breakout #4A—Transportation Roundtable: Challenges, Innovations, and What’s Next*
      • 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 UT’s Transportation and Logistics Collaborative, this open roundtable is a space for candid discussion 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, supply chain planning has never been more critical or challenging. Moderated by Lance Saunders, this open roundtable invites professionals to engage in an open discussion about the evolving role of the function in today’s business landscape. This session will offer an opportunity for leaders and researchers 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 thoughts to the discussion table.
    • Breakout #5—Onboarding Young Professionals: Placing New Hires on the Path to Success
      • The jump from college to career doesn’t always go smoothly. Without the right support, even the most promising talent can struggle to find their footing. Moderated by GSCI Career Management Director Cole Burns, this session features a panel of recent alumni 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, they will highlight what companies can do to set new hires up for long-term success.
    • Breakout #6—Advance Your Career at a Top Supply Chain University
      • Looking to elevate your expertise in supply chain management? Moderated by Izabela VanDeest, assistant director for SCM Graduate and Executive Education, this session explores the range of educational opportunities at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Haslam College of Business—ranked No. 1 in North America for graduate supply chain programs. From the Master of Science in Supply Chain Management Online to specialized SCM Academies in leadership, finance, planning, and procurement, UT provides flexible programs tailored to different career stages. 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
    Enjoy a time of networking with peers at the Knoxville Museum of Art, a stunning space designed by renowned architect Edward Larrabee Barnes. This special reception will showcase posters from seniors in the Smith Global Leadership Scholars program, highlighting their recently completed honors theses. Take advantage of a unique opportunity to engage with undergraduate research 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. Featuring former White House chief domestic economist Marianne Wanamaker and moderated by Tom Goldsby, this session addresses the most relevant questions facing businesses, including response to inflationary pressures, what labor market shifts mean for supply chain resilience, and how companies can 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 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 UT professor John-Patrick Paraskevas, this session brings together leading scholars to challenge conventional wisdom and present bold research into the major issues facing supply chains today. From resilience and digital transformation to sustainability and economic volatility, these rapid-fire presentations will spark new ways of thinking about complex global challenges. Expect fresh perspectives, rigorous analysis, and ideas that will leave you questioning what’s next for the discipline.
  • 11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. Lunch and Closing Remarks
    Enjoy lunch as we wrap up the Spring 2025 Supply Chain Forum with important announcements, key takeaways, 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.