Best in Market Supply Chains Key Topic at Logistics Conference

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The Supply Chain Management Research Center in the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas is sponsoring its ninth annual spring conference for the supply chain/logistics industry: “Best in Market Supply Chains Trump World-Class Everytime.”

The conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, March 18, at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for Enterprise Development, University of Arkansas campus. This conference is co-hosted by the Ozark Roundtable of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. Participants may register online or by calling 479-575-7334.

“Finding the right product mix and the right price for customers in local markets is a global challenge,” said Jim Crowell, director of the Supply Chain Management Research Center. “This conference is designed to help participants with these challenges. We will present insight and practical advice from leading supply chain professionals and academia, looking well beyond the economic forces that are squeezing supply chains in today’s marketplace.”

Speakers and panelists include:

• Gary Maxwell, senior vice president, International Innovation, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

• Wes Kemp, president and chief executive officer, ABF Freight System Inc.

• Thomas Evans, vice president and general counsel, Walmart Logistics Division

• Craig Sharkey, associate general counsel, Walmart Logistics Division

• Don White, professor of management, Walton College, University of Arkansas

• Clint Johnson, senior director innovations, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

• Tommy Conner, global head reuse operations, Braiform 

Participants can expect the following topics to be covered:

• Contrasting logistics in highly regulated and market driven economies

• Regulatory challenges of a post 9-11 world and product content compliance

• Lowering total operating costs with linked retailer/supplier sales and operations plans in an   expanded information sharing environment

• Leadership: the effective follower paradigm

• Case study: A global sustainable supply chain spanning multiple continents and cultures.

The Supply Chain Management Research Center is a direct link between the private sector and the University of Arkansas supply chain resources. It sponsors activities that promote both the academic and general body of knowledge encompassing supply chain management. It also supports student-focused activities centered on recruitment, retention and graduation.