Introduction

Christi Roorda, CMIR and Associate Director of Operations at Linde Gas & Equipment Inc., offers profound insights into the integration of Investment Recovery (IR) with supply chain management. Her presentation at the IRA Conference & Tradeshow in Nashville, TN, provides a roadmap for enhancing supply chain efficiency through strategic IR practices.

Supply Chain and IR: The Strategic Alliance

The supply chain, a complex network from raw materials to final products, traditionally viewed IR as focused solely on the end-of-life disposition of assets. Roorda’s transition from IR to supply chain management at Linde Gas & Equipment highlighted IR’s potential in adding significant value across the entire supply chain process.

Customer Service and Operating Costs

IR’s role in enhancing customer service is crucial. For instance, in the industrial sector, the customer experience often hinges on the seamless execution of various supply chain steps. Roorda illustrates this with an example from Cox Communications’ Net Zero program, where IR influenced more sustainable and user-friendly packaging designs. Additionally, IR functions can substantially reduce operating costs by offering cost-effective disposition options and advocating for sustainable sourcing of raw materials.

Asset Utilization and Flexibility

In large organizations like Linde, undiscovered idle materials present opportunities for repurposing and ethical disposition, a key aspect of IR. Roorda emphasizes the importance of collaboration with supply chain stakeholders to maximize asset utilization. Furthermore, the agility and adaptability inherent in IR professionals make them invaluable in responding to unexpected supply chain disruptions.

Supply Chain Disruptors

The presentation addresses various supply chain disruptors, both external and internal, and how they can be mitigated through proactive IR involvement. External disruptors like globalization, just-in-time inventory, and labor issues require contingency plans where IR can play a pivotal role. Internal disruptors, often stemming from poor planning or communication, can be effectively managed through expanded IR networking and collaboration within the organization.

Conclusion

Christi Roorda’s insights underscore the vital role of IR in strengthening supply chain resilience and efficiency. Her approach advocates for IR professionals to be proactive, collaborative, and resourceful, transforming IR from a ‘missing link’ to a strategic partner in supply chain management.