AI, Accountability, and Sustainability: The New Supply Chain Playbook

Send me a message In this episode of The Sustainable Supply Chain podcast, I’m joined by Spencer Malcolm, Principal at Forsyth Advisors, to delve into a pragmatic approach to supply chain sustainability. Spencer brings over 20 years of experience in leadership across multiple industries, from manufacturing, to distribution and strategic sourcing. Throughout our conversation, Spencer outlines how supply chains are evolving, with a particular focus on balancing the capital-S Sustainability (environmental impact) with lowercase-s sustainability (ensuring initiatives are both long-term and viable). We discuss the pitfalls companies often face when trying to "check the sustainability box" without real commitment, and why focusing on real, measurable returns can ensure a sustainable future. Spencer also shares his views on reshoring as a growing trend in response to global disruptions and explains how finding the right partners, and maintaining diversity in supply sourcing, is crucial for both environmental and operational sustainability. We explore how technology, while promising, should be used wisely—particularly AI, which Spencer cautions against over-relying on as a silver bullet. Finally, we touch on a key theme: accountability—whether that’s holding vendors to higher standards or measuring KPIs that ensure both sustainability and profitability. As Spencer notes, supply chain leaders must be armed with the right data and prepared for the long haul if they want to make a real Elevate your brand with the ‘Sustainable Supply Chain’ podcast, the voice of supply chain sustainability. Last year, this podcast's episodes were downloaded over 113,000 times by senior supply chain executives around the world. Become a sponsor. Lead the conversation. Contact me for sponsorship opportunities and turn downloads into dialogues. Act today. Influence the future. Support the show Podcast supporters I"d like to sincerely thank this podcast"s generous supporters: Lorcan Sheehan Olivier Brusle Alicia Farag Kieran Ognev And remember you too can Support the Podcast - it is really easy and hugely important as it will enable me to continue to create more excellent episodes like this one. Podcast Sponsorship Opportunities: If you/your organisation is interested in sponsoring this podcast - I have several options available. Let"s talk! Finally If you have any comments/suggestions or questions for the podcast - feel free to just send me a direct message on LinkedIn, or send me a text message using this link. If you liked this show, please don"t forget to rate and/or review it. It makes a big difference to help new people discover it. Thanks for listening.