"The Economy is changing: Are you?" Rebecca A. Morgan, CFPIM our guest speaker for the February PDM will focus on how changes in global competition combined with sea changes in manufacturing and service industries impact the knowledge and skills success requires. Join this interactive discussion of the changing supply chain function of NE Ohio companies and learn about changes local companies are making to stay competitive. Manufacturing is not dead, but it certainly is changing, and many of us find ourselves moving to service industries. Even if we’re still in manufacturing, the service component is critical to success. The balance of power for some of us has shifted from the manufacturer to the distributor or retailer. For many the safe harbor of the Big 3 was hit by a tidal wave. Some have joint ventures in China, European ownership, operations in Mexico, and markets around the world. It’s “not your father’s materials job” anymore. Supply Chain and Operations employees are expected to know about a lot more than just the way their company has always done it. We must understand options for reducing lead times, improving quality, planning and scheduling, for managing inventory, for working with suppliers, for finance, accounting and bank relationships. We must think strategically and act responsibly. We must understand and accept the demands of the new international, environmentally aware and speed-oriented economy. We must take responsibility to think, learn and lead. Bring your challenges, experiences and successes to share with fellow attendees.
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