Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™

Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research
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Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ explores the strategies, challenges, and opportunities that define today’s supply chains through biweekly conversations with industry leaders on the critical role supply chains play in business success. ________________ Hosted by Donna Palumbo, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State, and Tom Nightingale, Chief Executive Officer of MNC Transportation, Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ brings you engaging conversations with top industry leaders, including many Penn State alumni, who share firsthand insights on how supply chains shape resilient, agile, and thriving organizations.  From planning and procurement to logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, this podcast explores the full spectrum of supply chain functions and the leaders driving them forward. Whether navigating periods of growth or overcoming disruption, you’ll discover how strong supply chain strategies fuel business performance.  New episodes are released every other Wednesday and are available on all major podcast streaming platforms, as well as on the Center for Supply Chain Research website. 

  1. 6D AGO

    From Support Function to Strategic Partner in Pharma Procurement with Elena Polansky, Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Elena Polansky, Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners and former Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, to explore the evolution of procurement from a support function to a strategic value-engine. Elena shares insights from her 25-year career, including over 20 years at Pfizer where she delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings. She discusses navigating hidden costs in global sourcing, from geopolitical volatility to regulatory complexities, and the unique procurement challenges within life sciences. Elena also emphasizes the power of curiosity, asking smart questions, and staying open to feedback as essential traits for success in today's dynamic supply chain landscape. Takeaways: Procurement's transformation into a strategic business driver Managing hidden costs and risks in global pharmaceutical sourcing The role of innovation and technology in modern procurement The importance of curiosity and continuous learning Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Elena Polansky is a results-driven executive and strategic advisor with more than two decades of experience transforming procurement, operations, and organizational culture across global enterprises. As the Founder of Somerset Solutions Advisory Partners, she focuses on unlocking value through procurement transformation, supplier ecosystem optimization, and strategic advisory support. Her work centers on helping organizations evolve with clarity, confidence, and measurable impact. Before launching Somerset Solutions, Elena served as Chief Procurement Officer and Vice President of Global Sourcing & Procurement at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, where she established a centralized global sourcing function. Under her leadership, the team harmonized tools and processes, strengthened sourcing capabilities, and exceeded savings targets. Elena spent 20 years at Pfizer, advancing through multiple senior leadership roles in Global Sourcing and Global Supply. She delivered more than $1 billion in cumulative savings across direct and indirect categories and led the Internal Medicines External Supply organization, overseeing a global network of 50+ contract manufacturers producing 1,500+ SKUs. Her leadership ensured supply continuity, quality, and agility across diverse and highly regulated supply ecosystems. Elena began her career in consulting, leading strategy development, technology implementations, and change management initiatives for clients in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. At Andersen, she executed ERP implementations and software selection engagements; at Proxicom, she shaped digital strategy for a global bank and led the design of an internal knowledge management platform that improved collaboration and firm-wide efficiency. Elena is a proud Penn State alumna, holding a BS in Business Logistics and International Business from the Smeal College of Business. She resides in New Jersey with her husband—also a Penn State graduate—their two children, and their two dogs.

    27 min

  2. FEB 4

    Building Customer-Centric 3PL Operations with Alex Habbaz, CEO and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Alex Habbaz, Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, to explore the evolving world of third-party logistics and warehousing. Alex shares insights from over two decades of building a customer-first 3PL operation in the competitive New Jersey port area, discussing how Fleet Distribution Centers maintains its position as a provider of choice for household-name brands. He addresses the real-world impacts of tariffs and port strikes on operations, emphasizing the importance of agility and communication during periods of disruption. Alex explores the growing demand for value-added services in warehousing and how customer needs continue to shape the industry. Looking ahead, he discusses the role of automation in warehouse operations, challenging the misconception that technology replaces workers rather than enhancing their capabilities. Whether discussing competitive differentiation or the future of warehouse technology, Alex's perspective offers practical wisdom for building resilient, people-centered logistics operations. Takeaways: Strategies for maintaining competitive advantage in the 3PL space Navigating business disruption from tariffs and port strikes The evolution of value-added services in modern warehousing How automation enhances rather than replaces warehouse teams Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Alex Habbaz is the Owner and Managing Director of Fleet Distribution Centers, a New Jersey–based third-party logistics and warehousing company serving brands across apparel, consumer goods, and specialty retail.  He built Fleet with a simple idea: strong logistics isn’t just about moving product—it’s about building systems, people, and meaningful partnerships.  Alex leads a high-volume operation focused on warehousing, fulfillment, inventory management, and EDI integration. He is known for modernizing warehouse operations through smart use of technology, automation, and process design, while keeping people at the center of everything he builds.  A proud Penn State alum, Alex graduated in 2000 and remains deeply connected to the university and its community. He regularly engages with education-focused initiatives and leadership programs tied to student and alumni development.  Beyond operations, Alex works closely with clients on strategy, growth, and scalability—helping companies design logistics models that can grow with them. His leadership philosophy is built around accountability, developing people, and building systems that make the business better tomorrow than it is today.  Outside of business, Alex is active in community leadership, youth sports, and education-focused initiatives. Whether coaching, mentoring, or serving on nonprofit and community boards, he brings the same mindset everywhere: invest in people, raise standards, and build for the long term.

    19 min

  3. JAN 28

    Punching Above Your Weight: Navigating Change in the Trucking Industry with Joe Morrissey, President of Groendyke Transport, Inc.

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Joe Morrissey, President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., to explore the evolving landscape of trucking and logistics. Joe shares insights from his 40+ years in the industry, discussing the critical challenges facing transportation today, from driver retention and operational costs to technological integration. Drawing from his extensive career across marquee companies, Joe emphasizes the power of mentorship and authentic leadership in building high-trust cultures that drive operational excellence. He offers practical advice for navigating industry volatility while maintaining agility in high-pressure environments. Joe also discusses his work with the Florida Trucking Association and the importance of advocacy in shaping the future of transportation. Whether you're a seasoned executive or aspiring professional, Joe's perspective provides invaluable guidance for leading in today's dynamic supply chain landscape. Takeaways: Navigating the primary challenges of the modern trucking industry Leadership strategies for building trust and operational agility The impact of mentorship on career development Career advice for the next generation of logistics professionals Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Joe Morrissey is President of Groendyke Transport, Inc., a well-respected 93 year old bulk trucking company based in Enid, OK, and Vice Chairman of the Florida Trucking Association, a premier state trucking association. With more than 40 years of domestic and international experience, Joe has led across transportation and logistics, chemical, and technology companies, with a career-long focus on strategic sourcing, supply chain optimization, and delivering exceptional value through operational excellence.  An accomplished senior executive, Joe brings hands-on leadership experience spanning sales and marketing, service delivery, operations, safety, strategic planning, logistics, and procurement. Prior to joining Groendyke, he held senior leadership roles including President and CEO of CTL Transportation, Vice President of Commercial Services at Schneider National Bulk Carriers, and executive positions with ChemConnect (now Intercontinental Exchange), RubberNetwork (now Elemica), and Chemical Leaman Tank Lines (now Quality Carriers).  A Philadelphia area native, Joe’s career has taken him to 7 states, and he is currently primarily based in Tampa. Joe is a proud graduate of Penn State University holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Supply Chain and Information Systems. He also earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Wilmington (DE) University.

    30 min

  4. JAN 21

    Leading with Purpose: Lessons from Marty Duff, SVP of Supply Chain & Operations at YETI

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Marty Duff, SVP of Supply Chain & Operations at YETI, to explore the complexities of managing a global supply chain for one of the world's most iconic premium brands. Marty shares insights into YETI's product-driven approach, emphasizing innovation across their food and beverage, gear and equipment, and soft goods categories. He discusses strategies for building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification, maintaining three key sourcing markets to mitigate risks like tariffs and global disruptions. Marty delves into essential leadership skills, particularly curiosity, and how empowering teams to make data-driven decisions drives organizational success. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on navigating industry transitions across technology, CPG, and retail, and learn how to build high-performing teams in volatile markets. This conversation offers a masterclass in balancing operational excellence with the unique demands of a premium consumer brand. Takeaways: Building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification Leading product-driven innovation at YETI Empowering teams for data-driven decision-making Leadership lessons across diverse industries Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Marty Duff has been with YETI since November 2022 as SVP Supply Chain & Operations, overseeing all global sourcing, planning, quality, logistics, fulfillment and inventory controls and continuous improvement initiatives for the Company. Before joining YETI, Mr. Duff spent 11 years at VF Corporation in several supply chain leadership roles, most recently as the Vice President, Supply Chain – America's Region, where he led all supply chain and operations planning and logistics for brands including The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Dickies across the US, Canada, Mexico and distributor markets. Prior to his time at VF Corporation, Marty spent nine years at Johnson & Johnson in a number of operational leadership positions for brands like Neutrogena, Aveeno, Johnson's Baby. He holds a B.S. in Marketing and International Business and an MS, Business Administration, from Penn State University.

    21 min

  5. JAN 14

    Rewiring Supply Chains: Lessons from Andy Mowery, Adjunct Instructor at Smeal and Former SVP, Chief Product Supply Officer at The Clorox Company

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Andy Mowery to explore his distinguished 34-year career journey through Johnson & Johnson and The Clorox Company. Andy shares insights on leading global supply chain operations, driving operational excellence, and building resilient organizations in today's volatile market. He discusses the strategic role of technology in advancing supply chain capabilities, offering practical advice for companies without extensive resources. Andy reflects on fostering collaboration and innovation both internally and externally, and shares how his consulting experience prepared him for executive leadership. Now an adjunct instructor at Penn State's Smeal College of Business, Andy offers wisdom for the next generation of supply chain professionals navigating their career paths. Takeaways: Leading and scaling global supply chain operations across healthcare and CPG industries Leveraging technology to build agile and resilient supply chains Fostering collaboration and innovation with limited resources Career guidance for aspiring supply chain leaders Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio:  Andy Mowery is a seasoned supply chain professional with a 34-year industry career, predominantly with Johnson & Johnson and The Clorox Company. In his time at The Clorox Company he led Global Strategic Sourcing, Supply Chain Strategy, Global Operations and he concluded his career as the Senior Vice President and Chief Product Supply Officer, retiring in December 2020. In addition to his supply chain and Executive Committee responsibilities he was the Executive Sponsor for the Veterans ERG, and a member of the Compliance and Ethics, Enterprise Risk Management, and Employee Benefits Steering Committees. After retiring from industry, he has remained actively engaged in entrepreneurial ventures as a Board Member and Advisor to Oii.ai and as an advisor for the Happy Valley Launchbox. Andy is also an adjunct instructor at The Smeal College of Business where he shares his experiences and passion for supply chain with Penn State students. Andy is a third-generation Penn State alumnus and holds a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Business Analysis and a Master of Business Administration from Villanova University.

    32 min

  6. JAN 7

    From Farm to Fork: Inside the High-Velocity Perishable Supply Chain with Eric Peters, CEO of Procurant

    In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Eric Peters, President and CEO of Procurant, to explore his journey from consulting to entrepreneurship and his vision for transforming agriculture supply chains through technology. Eric shares how his early career at Accenture prepared him for leadership, the evolution of technology as an enabler in supply chain management, and the unique challenges of the agriculture sector that demand agility and resilience. He discusses Procurant's mission to improve agriculture supply chains globally, offers insights on where students are most and least prepared for the workforce, and provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating their own journeys. Takeaways: Transitioning from consulting to CEO and co-founder Technology's role in enabling modern supply chains The unique dynamics and challenges of agriculture supply chains Entrepreneurial advice and career wisdom Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio: Eric Peters, President and CEO of Procurant, brings extensive experience and vision in supply chain technology to a series of successful software companies he has founded and led. He has been featured and quoted in hundreds of articles on supply chain, retail and the food industry, and is a contributing author to 5 books. Peters was previously CEO of SensorThink, the first digital platform built to support the digital warehouse, and Foodlink, acquired by Roper Technologies in 2014. Foodlink, the leading network for fresh food and a pioneer in perishables supply chain solutions, was twice named to the JMP Securities Hot 100 Private Software Companies list. Prior to joining Foodlink Peters co-founded TrueDemand Software, one of the first IoT technology companies to use predictive analytics to help the largest retailers in the world reduce lost sales due to out-of-stock inventory at the shelf. He continued to lead TrueDemand following its acquisition by Acosta Sales & Marketing. Peters has also served as EVP of Strategy and Business Development at Manhattan Associates and Senior Executive in Accenture's Global Supply Chain Strategy Practice. He speaks regularly at industry events around the world and serves as a board advisor to a number of startup companies.

    29 min

  7. 12/17/2025

    AI Data Centers and Power Demand with Jaime Butler, CEO for Control Solutions and Services at GE Vernova

    Join Donna and Tom as they sit down with Jaime Butler, CEO for Control Solutions & Services at GE Vernova, to explore her dynamic career journey and the evolving landscape of power generation supply chains. Jaime shares insights on navigating GE's unprecedented transformation into three separate businesses, driving lean manufacturing practices, and managing inventory efficiencies at scale. She discusses the unique business cycles of power generation, the surge in demand from AI data centers, and strategies for successful M&A integration. Listeners will gain practical advice on supply chain design, legal entity readiness, and the leadership principles that have guided her path from plant manager during the shale boom to CEO. Takeaways: Navigating large-scale corporate transformations and M&A integration Implementing lean manufacturing and inventory optimization strategies Understanding power generation supply chains and AI's impact on energy demand Career development lessons from diverse supply chain roles Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio:  Jaime joined Baker Hughes in 2001 based in Houston, TX and moved to GE Vernova in April 2023 with the Nexus Controls acquisition. She is currently the Controls Business Line Leader, based in Longmont, CO.  Over the course of her 24 years, she has held roles in Region P&L leadership, manufacturing operations, commercial, key accounts, supply chain, finance, and product line technology. Jaime holds a Masters in Supply Chain Management and Bachelors in Business Marketing.  In 2020, she received a Hart Energy award for 25 Most Influential Women in Energy and in 2021 she received recognition from Insight Magazine as the 10 Most Empowering Women in Business.  Her experience has fostered a unique skill set across several functions and technologies in the energy industry, driving both horizontal and vertical connections with successful outcomes. Jaime enjoys supporting and developing women in the energy industry through mentoring and volunteering.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time and playing sports with her family. She is happily married to her husband Matt, and they have two sons, Brennan 20 years old and Liam 16 years old.

    31 min

  8. 12/10/2025

    Adapt and Deliver with Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc.

    Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc. In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc. to discuss his career journey and the evolution of supply chain management in the consumables industry. Chad shares how his Penn State education prepared him for leadership, the challenges facing modern supply chains, and strategies for building agility and resilience in today's dynamic landscape. He provides insight into Utz's new state-of-the-art logistics center and how it's advancing supply chain efficiency, while also offering valuable perspectives on workforce development and student preparedness. Listeners will gain practical advice on supply chain flexibility, the importance of cross-functional expertise, and Chad's guiding principles for career success.  Takeaways:  Career progression from Penn State to Executive VP of Supply Chain  Challenges and opportunities in consumables supply chain management  Building agile and resilient supply chains in a changing landscape  Utz's state-of-the-art logistics center and its impact on efficiency  Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us!  Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr  Guest Bio:  Chad Whyte was appointed to Executive Vice President, Supply Chain for Utz Brands, Inc. in June 2022. As EVP, Supply Chain, he has responsibility for Procurement, Supply and Demand Planning, Distribution, Transportation and the Customer Logistics functions. Chad joined Utz in January 2022 as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain Planning and Logistics. He joined Utz with 25 years of experience in supply chain roles, most recently as President and Chief Executive Officer of Aloe Group, a consulting firm that has been working closely with Utz on several value creation initiatives. Prior to Aloe, Chad was Vice President, Supply Chain at Pinnacle Foods, where he was responsible for all transportation, warehousing and network optimization for a $3.5 billion revenue business. Prior to Pinnacle Foods, he was Senior Director, Logistics at Campbell Soup Company; Director, Logistics North America at Reckitt Benckiser; and Director, Supply Chain Planning at Church & Dwight Company.  Chad received a B.S. in Supply Chain and Information Systems, as well as an M.B.A., from The Pennsylvania State University. He was also an adjunct faculty member for Penn State’s Executive Education Program on Achieving Supply Chain Transformation.

    21 min
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About

Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ explores the strategies, challenges, and opportunities that define today’s supply chains through biweekly conversations with industry leaders on the critical role supply chains play in business success. ________________ Hosted by Donna Palumbo, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State, and Tom Nightingale, Chief Executive Officer of MNC Transportation, Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ brings you engaging conversations with top industry leaders, including many Penn State alumni, who share firsthand insights on how supply chains shape resilient, agile, and thriving organizations.  From planning and procurement to logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, this podcast explores the full spectrum of supply chain functions and the leaders driving them forward. Whether navigating periods of growth or overcoming disruption, you’ll discover how strong supply chain strategies fuel business performance.  New episodes are released every other Wednesday and are available on all major podcast streaming platforms, as well as on the Center for Supply Chain Research website. 

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