AI in Supply Chain

AI is becoming a regular topic in supply chain discussions, and many teams are starting to separate useful applications from hype. Leaders are being asked to explore AI tools while being mindful of concerns about data quality, employee adoption, cost, and where these technologies actually fit into existing processes and tools. This session will focus on practical, real-world uses of AI in supply chain operations and where organizations are seeing measurable value today.

We will be joined by Madhav Durbha, Group Vice President, CPG & Manufacturing at RELEX Solutions, who will discuss his personal learning journey on AI uses cases in supply chain the past several years, and how to improve both your personal readiness and organizational readiness to adopt these new technologies.

Using additional examples from UWEBC member organizations, this session will explore practical applications such as:

• improving demand planning by identifying patterns and exceptions faster
• automating repetitive reporting, data cleanup, and routine communications
• using AI tools to summarize supplier, inventory, or logistics data for faster decision-making
• helping teams identify risks, delays, or unusual trends earlier
• setting realistic expectations for where human judgment and intervention is still necessary

We’ll also discuss common implementation challenges, including data readiness, change management, and how to start small without overcommitting resources. Participants will leave with specific ideas they can apply right away, along with a clearer understanding of where AI can support supply chain work today—and where it may not yet be worth the investment.