OCT ‘23
Bastian’s thoughts: In today’s rapidly changing market, the supply chain and tech sectors play a vital role in driving the economy forward. These industries have proven to be essential during challenging times, keeping the world moving. Businesses continue to find themselves facing a constant dilemma: should they focus on cost reduction or invest in talent? This question has become increasingly relevant as organisations strive to stay ahead in a rapidly changing market. On one hand, cost minimisation is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. By reducing expenses, companies can increase their profit margins. While cost minimisation can be an effective short-term strategy, it may not always be sustainable in the long run. On the other hand, investing in talent is essential for companies to thrive and grow. A skilled and motivated workforce can drive innovation, improve productivity, and enhance customer satisfaction. By attracting and retaining top talent, companies can gain a competitive edge and position themselves as industry leaders. The challenges of cost minimisation versus investing in talent are complex and require careful consideration. While cost minimisation is important for short-term profitability, investing in talent is crucial for long-term growth and sustainability.
In our opinion, Supply Chain and Technology is and always will be essential to successful business operations. It has been clear that those that persevered, pivoted and were quickly able to adapt strategies whilst continuing to invest in these areas gained a significant competitive edge even in the most challenging of times.
Conclusion: As financial stress becomes more widespread, companies will carefully analyse their workforce needs and explore alternative solutions to bridge the gap during uncertain times. Adapting to circumstances will empower businesses to navigate challenges effectively and emerge stronger when the market flourishes once again. Companies that want to remain competitive should not hesitate to invest in supply chain & technology, even with predicted challenging times ahead. Supply chain and technology are not just important, they are indispensable services that will always be essential to business success. If you’re looking for support in sourcing talent, email contact@bconsult.io and Bastian can show you how we’ve helped businesses not only continue to source great talent, but save tens of thousands through a tailored subscription model.
ASCL Awards Gala Dinner - Guest Speaker The SCLAA is pleased to announce that Paul Graham, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Australia Post, will be Guest Speaker at the 2023 ASCL Awards Gala Dinner. Paul is a supply chain industry leader, with more than 30 years' experience, starting his career at 18 in customer service in the international cargo industry. Paul comes to Australia Post from Woolworths Group, where he was Chief Supply Chain Officer and Managing Director of Primary Connect. In this role he oversaw a strategic rebuild of the supply chain network, including over $2 billion of infrastructure investment. He has held senior roles working across logistics in Australia, the UK, Taiwan, Singapore and Germany, including as Global Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer for Europe, Middle East & Africa for DHL. Paul was presented with the Public Service Medal by the government of Singapore for services to the logistics industry and regional development in 2015.
Paul Graham Group CEO and MD, Australia Post
In addition to his executive roles, Paul has also served as Chairman of a global digital marketing group based in London, served on various University and Government advisory Boards and also on Boards in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods and farming sectors.
Migrating from Northern Ireland, Paul knows the value of Australia Post as an essential service; trusted to connect Australians to each other and to friends and family around the world.
P 13
