Written by Chen Celine S N

On April 20, students in the IBBA program’s Production Operations Management course welcomed guest speaker Ingo Thiel, Director of Supply Chain Management Asia at EJOT, a global manufacturer of screws. Drawing from industry experience, Ingo provided a practical look into how supply chains are managed and optimized in a complex business environment.

Ingo began by introducing EJOT and its development over time, explaining how the company expanded its production facilities across regions to improve both product quality and logistics. He emphasized that even for a standardized product like screws, precision and coordination across the supply chain are essential. By strengthening quality control and improving how goods are allocated at the point of purchase, EJOT has been able to significantly reduce customer complaints and product rejections.

A major focus of the lecture was on how to build resilient supply chains. Ingo discussed the importance of diversifying sourcing and production locations, like EJOT’s expansion into different countries in Asia. This strategy helps to mitigate risks from external disruptions, such as geopolitical tensions or environmental issues that may impact shipments from Taiwan. Ingo also outlined key principles of effective supply chain management. For example, operations should be as “disturbance-free” as possible, meaning organizations must minimize errors by enforcing strict quality control, standardized processes, and regular audits. Maintaining consistent “flow” ensures that products move efficiently through the supply chain without bottlenecks. In addition, achieving “rhythm” in the chain involves aligning fluctuating customer demand with supplier production capabilities.

Ingo also shared advice for aspiring supply chain professionals. He emphasized the importance of strong communication skills and data-driven approaches, along with taking the time for careful analysis, managing costs, and continuously developing professional knowledge. He also noted that supply chains often go unnoticed when they function well, but quickly draw attention when they fail, highlighting the behind-the-scenes importance of doing the job well.

Towards the end of the lecture, EJOT’s company jingle “Bringing it Together” was introduced, offering a glimpse into the organization’s unifying identity. The session officially concluded with a QA, where students asked about handling disruptions and managing intricate supply networks. Ingo reinforced supplier diversification as a key strategy for resilience and noted the company’s heavy reliance on ERP systems like SAP to track materials and clients, while acknowledging the challenges of managing such complexity. Overall, the lecture offered a clear and practical perspective on what it takes to keep supply chains efficient and resilient in today’s global environment.