What’s next? How finance can help reimagine the supply chain

Amid the excitement of getting back to a semblance of business as usual, you’re probably asking yourself a lot of questions—as in, what is the new normal and where do I go from here?  This podcast is the next episode in a new series for CFOs, controllers—really, anyone in finance—asking big questions, like: how do we emerge from a crisis stronger than before?  Each week, we’ll focus on a different area that may need your focus in this period of recovery. This week, host Heather Horn sits down with Kevin Keegan, a Partner in PwC’s strategy consulting business, to discuss supply chain risk and recovery planning for 2021. Topics include:0:59 - Overview. A new age of supply chain is coming. We begin by highlighting the emerging trends—and vulnerabilities that the pandemic uncovered—that are changing the way companies think about their supply chains. 6:06 - Strategic decisions. As the pandemic disruption taught us, lowest cost isn’t always the best strategy. Kevin covers how companies are rethinking their supply chain strategy—from better risk identification tools to alternative supplier sources and locations—and then shares the changes he’s seeing in supply chain financing. 16:20 - Where to start? Having back-up plans at the ready in the event of disruption is key to having a high-performing supply chain. Kevin and Heather discuss some of the changes companies can act on now and in the longer term.20:19 - The finance team’s role. Working together is key. There needs to be collaboration between the finance and supply chain teams, including on budgets and goal setting. 26:31 -  Supply chain FAQ. Kevin shares the top questions he’s hearing from companies, including how to account for and manage changes in fulfillment services.29:35 - The road ahead. Preparing the supply chain for the new environment will include new innovations. We close by discussing a few emerging opportunities and what makes Kevin optimistic for the future of supply chains.    Kevin Keegan is a Partner in PwC’s strategy consulting business working to improve business operations for the benefit of both current and future stakeholders. Kevin assists business leaders think through practical approaches to remove costs that are invasive to value and identify and firmly root new types of operating models that enhance growth.Heather Horn is PwC’s National office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 25 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].