With the AHRMM24 Conference in Columbus coming up soon, hundreds of healthcare supply chain professionals are busy reviewing which sessions to attend. With more than 80 speakers across five specialized knowledge tracks, there is quite a variety to choose from!
A prominent topic throughout this year’s educational sessions is the changing role of the healthcare supply chain leader. With supply chain recognized as a strategic asset to the operational and financial performance of healthcare organizations, supply chain leaders must be equipped to handle not only logistical challenges but also the business implications of their decisions.
Re-evaluating and redefining leadership roles within the supply chain are the focus of the AHRMM24 Conference learning lab panel, “Women in Health Care Supply Chain: Leading with Purpose,” which will be held September 23 from 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
This 60-minute session will explore the dynamic position of women in supply chain management and their transformative work in healthcare. I am honored to moderate a panel of esteemed female leaders from preeminent healthcare and technology organizations:
- Carmen Winfield, vice president of supply chain, McLeod Health
- Kumbia Lewis, director of supply chain, Texas Children’s Hospital
- Rikki Jennings, industry principal lead, Zebra Technologies
These trailblazers will share their insights and experiences, highlighting practical aspects of creating a supply chain that is efficient, ethical and equipped to tackle today’s challenges. Here are three of the multiple themes they will cover:
Innovation and inclusivity in decision-making
Acknowledging how supply chain teams comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences enrich strategy formulation, the panelists will discuss the importance of inclusivity in team building and talent development.
Attendees will gain valuable tips for taking a more inclusive approach to decision-making; one that builds resiliency and promotes positive, productive work environments. Carmen, Kumbia and Rikki will also share examples of what has worked in their organizations and the innovations achieved from the assimilation of diverse viewpoints.
Ethical responsibility and integrity
As a critical component in safe and effective patient care, healthcare supply chains must operate on a foundation of ethical objectives and practices. Building a culture of integrity within supply chain teams requires executives to lead by example, and the panelists will explain how they incorporate ethical considerations into their decisions and actions.
Carmen, Kumbia and Rikki will describe how they have strengthened the ethical framework of their organizations’ operations. Additionally, they will highlight the importance of ensuring ethical practices are ingrained and consistently applied in day-to-day supply chain operations.
Dynamic and responsive leadership in supply chain management
As women in supply chain management who are leading in their field, Carmen, Kumbia and Rikki will also share practical advice for balancing day-to-day logistical challenges with long-term strategic visions. This includes integral steps toward improving cost, quality and outcomes in healthcare organizations.
They will also discuss effective strategies for enhancing supply chain operations, using real-world examples where traditional approaches fell short in addressing the complexities of modern healthcare logistics.
Coming up at AHRMM
Our panel of leaders is shaking up healthcare supply chain, facing challenges head-on and pushing for real, actionable change. They serve as an inspiration not only to women in supply chain management but to all supply chain leaders who are committed to advancing innovation, inclusivity and integrity in the field. Hear more in-depth answers and real-world experiences from our panelists by attending our AHRMM24 learning lab on September 23 at 1:15 p.m.
