From Code to COO: An Unconventional Path to Logistics Leadership - with Erin Mitchell

Featuring Erin Mitchell, Chief Operating Officer at YMX LogisticsIn this episode of the Supply Chain Careers podcast, we sit down with Erin Mitchell, COO of YMX Logistics, to explore her remarkable career journey from software developer at Kraft to leading logistics integrations and scaling a fast-growing startup.Erin shares how a company-sponsored MBA opened doors into operations, and how servant leadership, stretch assignments, and a bias for action helped her navigate major mergers, build high-performing teams, and drive innovation in supply chain.We discuss:The skills Erin looks for when hiring logistics talentLeading during high-pressure M&A integrationsTransitioning from shipper to logistics service providerWhy operations experience is critical for long-term career growthBalancing sustainability, customer success, and profitabilityHow to lead through change, even when the plan goes off-courseWhether you're just starting out or leading a global supply chain, Erin’s story offers practical advice and inspiration for supply chain professionals at every stage.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we dive deep into the world of operations leadership with Fabio Paniza, Director of Operations for a leading global medical device and pharmaceutical company. Fabio oversees global manufacturing operations spanning the U.S. and Switzerland, managing everything from component warehousing and kitting to final assembly, packaging, and service support for life-saving medical devices.Fabio shares his inspiring journey from his family business in Brazil to leading complex global operations for one of the world's top healthcare companies. Whether you're just starting out or seeking your next leadership role in supply chain, Fabio’s career path and perspective on people-first operations will leave you both informed and inspired.🔗 Connect with Fabio on LinkedIn: Fabio Paniza 🎧 Powered by SCM Talent Group – the industry-leading supply chain recruiting and executive search firm.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with award-winning supply chain leader, Moonmoon Rathod, for an inside look at what it’s like to work as a Supply Chain Manager. With over a decade of experience at global powerhouses like Amazon, Apple, Daimler Mercedes-Benz, and William Sonoma, Moonmoon shares her career journey, daily responsibilities, and the skills—both technical and soft—that are essential for success in logistics and operations.Tune in as Moonmoon discusses:How a career-shaping internship led her into supply chainWhat she likes about being a Supply Chain ManagerWhat her main day-to-day job duties consist ofHer passion for problem-solving, innovation, and mentorshipWhether you're a student exploring career paths, a mid-career professional seeking advancement, or a leader shaping supply chain strategy, this episode offers actionable insights from one of the industry’s rising stars. Moonmoon also shares advice for breaking into the field, the value of rotational programs, and how to build a career that thrives in a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment.🎧 Presented by SCM Talent Group – the industry-leading supply chain recruiting and executive search firm.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers podcast, we talk with Jenny Yao Harrison, a seasoned global supply chain and business transformation executive with over two decades of experience leading cross-functional teams across continents and industries. Currently serving as the commercial leader for a strategic customer at Niagara Bottling, Jenny shares insights from a career that has taken her from Coca-Cola’s global operations to leading supply chain strategy at Finlays in London.We explore Jenny’s journey—from her unexpected entry into the supply chain world to building a T-shaped leadership profile through roles in operations, R&D, and innovation. She unpacks the contrasts between public and private companies, the realities of international assignments, and how she’s navigated career transitions while balancing personal and professional growth.Whether you’re starting out or leading supply chains at scale, this episode offers valuable lessons in adaptability, leadership, and creating a fulfilling global career in the ever-evolving beverage industry.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Scott Mason, a seasoned supply chain leader whose career spans high-impact roles in industry, academia, and now at Amazon, where he leads optimization efforts for under-the-roof operations.Scott shares how his early experiences in semiconductor manufacturing and consulting laid the groundwork for a career focused on modeling, analytics, and systems thinking. He reflects on his academic tenure at Clemson and the University of Arkansas, and what ultimately brought him back into industry to help Amazon move over 100 million packages a day with precision and efficiency.We explore:The evolution of supply chain modeling — from spreadsheets to AIThe critical balance between hard skills and soft skillsWhy empathy, communication, and self-awareness matter more than everHow Amazon's culture fosters innovation at scaleLeadership lessons across academia, consulting, and techWhether you're a student, a seasoned professional, or someone exploring a pivot in supply chain, Scott’s insights offer a grounded roadmap for building a meaningful, impactful career.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers podcast, we sit down with John Peoples, a seasoned supply chain and operations leader whose career spans major organizations like Ford, Halliburton, Coca-Cola, and Domino’s.John shares how he built his career from the plant floor to multi-site operations leadership—emphasizing the importance of curiosity, continuous improvement, and a people-first leadership style. From leading startup facilities to turning around underperforming sites, John reveals how emotional safety, empowerment, and team culture drive performance at scale.You’ll hear:Why frontline experience is critical to long-term leadership successThe difference between managing a single site vs. multiple operationsHow to build trust, drive metrics, and develop high-performing teamsThe role of mentorship, networking, and advocacy in career growthAdvice for young professionals looking to lead in manufacturingWhether you're early in your career or looking to step into senior operations leadership, John offers grounded, practical insights you can apply today.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this insightful episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Lotardo, consultant, writer, training creator, and author of "Leading Yourself." This episode is part of our "Talent Building and Engagement" podcast series. Elizabeth shares powerful insights on overcoming burnout, finding true meaning at work, and driving personal and professional motivation. Learn how to distinguish between compliance and commitment, the critical importance of soft skills, and how emotional intelligence and effective communication can transform your career. Elizabeth emphasizes the role of self-leadership, offering actionable strategies to help you navigate changes, foster deeper engagement, and create lasting fulfillment at work. Whether you're feeling stuck, searching for motivation, or aiming to build a more meaningful professional life, this episode provides valuable guidance to empower your career journey.Watch more Supply Chain Careers podcast episodes:Click hereNeed help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Bob Ferrari, a seasoned industry analyst, consultant, and founder of Supply Chain Matters. Bob shares his incredible career journey, from an unexpected start in logistics to becoming a thought leader in supply chain strategy, technology, and workforce trends.We explore the evolving landscape of supply chain management, the role of AI and machine learning, the impact of reshoring and nearshoring, and how professionals can future-proof their careers in an ever-changing industry. Bob also highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and adaptability, emphasizing that supply chain is more than just processes and technology—it’s a relationship-driven community.Tune in for valuable career insights, thought-provoking discussions, and a look at what’s ahead for supply chain professionals in 2025 and beyond.Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, hosts Rodney Apple and Chris Gaffney sit down with David Shillingford, CoFounder of Everstream Analytics, to explore the evolving landscape of supply chain risk management. David shares his unconventional career journey—from the British Army to leading analytics-driven startups—and provides invaluable insights into how businesses can proactively manage risk in today's complex global supply chains.With real-world examples and expert advice, this episode is a must-listen for supply chain professionals, business leaders, and aspiring risk managers looking to stay ahead of industry challenges.🎧 Tune in now and learn how to build a more resilient, risk-optimized supply chain!Need help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing

In this episode of the Supply Chain Careers Podcast, we sit down with Erin Horvath, former Chief Operating Officer at United Natural Foods (UNFI), to explore her remarkable journey from project management to the C-suite. Erin shares how her early experience in project management shaped her leadership style, the importance of execution in driving career growth, and the pivotal moments that defined her rise to executive leadership.She dives into how an enterprise mindset, curiosity, and cross-functional collaboration played key roles in her success—and why making bold career moves, embracing transformation, and learning from every experience can set aspiring leaders apart. Erin also discusses the future of supply chain leadership, the impact of AI, and why decisiveness and urgency are more critical than ever.Whether you're an early-career professional looking to break into leadership or a seasoned supply chain executive navigating transformation, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead with confidence and drive real impact.🎧 Tune in now and learn how getting things done can define your path to leadershipNeed help hiring top talent? Engage SCM Talent Group, a supply chain recruiting & executive search firm that specializes in your hiring needs: Continuous Improvement Engineering Inventory Planning Logistics & Transportation Manufacturing Operations Robotics Sales & Business Development S&OP Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Supply Chain Management Technology & Automation Warehousing