Brian Gronberg
Title: Sr. Director, Client Services
Years with OSG: 5
Years in Supply Chain: 24+
Ask the Expert
What does your day-to-day look like?
My days involve strategic project forecasting and client meetings. Managing teams across multiple active projects and formulating quotes and SOWs for upcoming new sites and enhancements.
How did you get started in supply chain?
I was working in an IT shop and the company needed a project manager to implement a WMS for them. I transferred to the logistics team and created a new inventory control department. Then, I moved onto managing the receiving and transportation groups all while working on the RFP for the WMS. It was a lot of work, but it built a solid foundation to be able to bridge the gap between IT and Ops. This foundation became vital for future WMS project work.
How does supply chain impact a company’s broader strategy?
We live in a global economy where immediate needs are paramount. Efficiently sourcing materials for consumer goods and delivering them promptly to customers are crucial. If you can’t deliver as promised, customers will move on and likely won’t return. A key factor in meeting these expectations is maintaining accurate inventory within distribution centers.
What do you view as the biggest challenge in the current supply chain environment and how can it be solved?
Labor is always a challenge. However, companies are hesitant to invest in technology that can provide a more efficient means of processing their orders which results in a better customer experience. An online retailer has set the bar high for processing orders, delivering sometimes the same day with real-time updates. Not all companies can compete with that, but the expectation is there. Investments in automation and technology will provide the best service to customers and minimize the burden on your distribution center staff.
What philosophy do you follow while working with customers?
Listen to their needs and find ways to provide solutions that meet or exceed those requirements; but try do it without customization where possible. That may be a discussion with them on process changes to accomplish ensuring there is little to no impact on labor. Encourage them to take a step back and embrace change and avoid making their new system the same as their old system.
Please share your favorite success story.
It’s much too difficult to narrow it down to one. All involve exceptional teams of people working in challenging environments.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the supply chain industry?
Try and work in as many logistics industries as possible. That experience is invaluable because each has their own nuances, varying requirements and helps build a toolbox of experience to use later in your career.
What is a fun fact about yourself that your clients may not know?
My passion is SCUBA diving, specifically shark diving. The best trip was diving with Great Whites off Guadalupe Island, Mexico. I also took up skydiving last year on a whim.
