In the latest episode of MetaPod, host Ron Crabtree sits down with guest Alan Shevela, Vice President of Global Supply Chain for a major Tier 1 automotive supplier. Their discussion, rich with insights applicable across industries, focuses on three primary challenges: digital transformation, the ongoing labor shortage, and the necessity of doing more with less. Their insights into these topics, while deeply rooted in the auto industry, provide valuable lessons and advice for businesses in any sector looking to navigate similar complexities.
Alan begins by outlining the competitive nature of the automotive industry, emphasizing the constant need for innovation and efficiency. With a background that stretches back to 1996 with General Motors, he brings a seasoned perspective to the discussion, highlighting how his current company supplies essential components to major global OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) like Ford, BMW, and Mercedes.
Digital transformation remains a significant priority for businesses worldwide, and Alna emphasizes its importance in improving efficiency and reducing manual tasks. In the automotive industry, companies must consistently streamline processes to stay competitive. Alan discusses the need to move away from “spreadsheet mashing,” which is the manual consolidation of data across various enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and focus on digitization. He encourages companies to always be looking at what can be digitized and urges them to innovate proactively rather than reactively.
Alan offers a real-world example from his company, which recently implemented a “procure-to-pay” system. This tool allows real-time data sharing across sites, reducing the need for manual data collection and processing. The system’s automation frees up valuable hours for employees to focus on more strategic tasks, like building relationships with suppliers.
Robotic process automation (RPA) is another key process Alan delves into, highlighting how repetitive tasks can be automated to reduce human error and improve productivity. By digitizing such processes, businesses can shift their focus to strategic activities that foster long-term growth.
Ron and Alan agree that the labor shortage is not a temporary challenge and offer practical advice on how companies can address this issue. Rather than focusing solely on acquiring more workers, businesses need to ensure they have the right people in the right roles.
Alan stresses the importance of organizational structure in making the most of a limited workforce. He also emphasizes the development of employees, stating that “nobody is born a leader.” His team at UDINE uses a structured approach to leadership development, ensuring that every team member, from individual contributors to department heads, is given opportunities to grow. Cross-training is another strategy Alan advocates for, allowing team members to step into different roles when necessary, thus maintaining operational flow during absences or shifts in responsibility.
As businesses face increasing pressure to deliver results with fewer resources, Alan explains how his team continually evaluates tasks to eliminate inefficiencies. One simple yet impactful method he mentions is cutting out unnecessary reports. Many employees, he notes, waste time compiling reports that nobody reviews. By rethinking and refining what tasks are truly necessary, businesses can free up time and energy for high-impact work.
Efficiency also ties back to digital transformation. Automating repetitive tasks allows businesses to achieve more with fewer resources. Alan encourages businesses to ask tough questions about their processes: “Why are we doing this?” and “Can we do it better?”
While automation and efficiency are key, Alan reminds us that the most important asset any business has is its people. No matter how advanced your technology or processes become, it’s the people who drive success. Alan’s leadership philosophy centers on empowering every team member and fostering a collaborative culture where everyone feels valued. He leaves listeners with an essential leadership takeaway: “You’re not truly a leader until you’ve led a leader.”
While the conversation throughout the episode is focused in the context of the auto industry, the insights are universally applicable to other sectors facing similar challenges. If you have further questions or would like to discuss these topics further, Alan can be contacted via email at [email protected].
MetaPod offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise for operational executives and organizations seeking to optimize their operations and supply chains, as well as common challenges such as digital transformation, the forever labor shortage, and doing more with less. Listen and subscribe today for more insightful and engaging discussions on operational excellence, leadership, growth strategies, and organizational transformation.
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