Expanding Supply Chain Management: Critical Focal Points for Leaders
In the rapidly evolving world of supply chain, Sarah Barnes-Humphrey is making strides to promote gender equality and progress. As the Founder & Host at Let's Talk Supply Chain, Barnes-Humphrey has been a vocal advocate for proactive thinking and action regarding female representation in the industry.
The supply chain landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years, driven by rising customer expectations, the growth of AI, and the increasing importance of digital. Amidst this transformation, there are stereotypes and misunderstandings about what a supply chain career could entail, extending beyond jobs in warehouses or trucks to include finance, HR, technology, and marketing.
Barnes-Humphrey, who joined the organisation Blended in 2025 to enhance her leadership skills and potentially gain support for her initiatives, acknowledges that the industry is getting younger, more diverse, and more educated. Colleges and universities are offering various qualifications to cater to this growing demand.
In 2024, Barnes-Humphrey focused on laying solid foundations and preparing for her businesses' growth in 2025. This included establishing a dedicated online hub for women to connect, collaborate, and grow together. In-person dinners and informal networking events were also established to foster a sense of community.
The following year, Barnes-Humphrey invested in personal branding and personal growth. She also launched a platform on TikTok, a platform often associated with entertainment and consumer goods, to leverage next-generation talent and position for the future.
However, the industry's progress has been slow. Gartner's 2024 Women In Supply Chain survey showed that women's representation has stalled, particularly at the leadership level. To address this, Barnes-Humphrey believes that organisations can support women by establishing women's groups and encouraging the creation of safe spaces for them to discuss ideas.
Leaders should also be open to learning from young people about AI and digital marketing, as the discussion about the supply chain industry needs to go both ways. Furthermore, leaders should develop training and education opportunities that meet modern needs and speak the language of the next generation to avoid losing talent to other industries.
Barnes-Humphrey, who early in her career found many of her friends had no idea what she did in the supply chain industry, emphasises the need for leaders to reach out to local schools and colleges to talk about the endless possibilities in supply chain. Supporting the next generation of supply chain marketers is crucial for brands to achieve a competitive advantage in a rapidly changing and challenging market.
Barnes-Humphrey also recognises that progress in businesses cannot be achieved while stuck in a hustle culture. She advises leaders to follow through on their commitments to women's career growth to ensure the success of these spaces.
In her quest to make a difference, Barnes-Humphrey is considering joining the Forbes Business Council. She continues to inspire and empower women in the supply chain industry, breaking down stereotypes and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse future.
Read also:
- Unfair Expenditure Distribution, Secret Tourists, Looming Rabies Threats: Latest News Roundup
- Hydrogen: Eco-friendly Alternative or Energy Imperialism Debate?
- Hydrogen: Environmentally Friendly Alternative or Energy Imperialism?
- Strategies for expanding your creative enterprise, directly from industry experts
