Chad Schneider
Title: VP, Managed Services
Years with OSG: 7
Years in Supply Chain: 30
Ask the Expert
What does your day-to-day look like?
My day is a dynamic mix of strategy, problem-solving, and connection. I move between client meetings, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and coaching sessions. Change meetings and SOPs keep things evolving while Managed Services sales presentations keep me on my toes. No two days are ever the same, but that’s what makes the journey exciting!
How did you get started in supply chain?
I got my start in supply chain at McHugh, Freeman and Associates, an early player in what became Blue Yonder’s WMS product suite. As a rookie, I spent a lot of time in Macon, GA, gaining hands-on experience and refining processes.
How does supply chain impact a company’s broader strategy?
Supply chain plays a critical role in a company’s broader strategy, directly influencing customer satisfaction, retention, and profitability. Reliable, on-time delivery is essential – failures in this area can quickly erode trust and impact business success. Additionally, an efficient supply chain drives profitability by minimizing unnecessary steps, optimizing sourcing locations, and securing the best possible rates. When seamlessly integrated, supply chain operations enhance both experience and financial performance, making them a key pillar of strategic success.
What do you view as the biggest challenge in the current supply chain environment and how can it be solved?
Labor remains one of the biggest challenges in today’s supply chain environment. Every step – from port operators and truck drivers to warehouse teams handling receiving, picking, packing and shipping – relies on a stable workforce to keep goods moving. Without them, the flow of products from suppliers to consumers faces major disruptions. Addressing this challenge requires advancements in efficiency, improved shipping methods, and increased automation and robotics. These innovations can help alleviate labor shortages by streamlining processes.
What philosophy do you follow while working with customers?
I believe in keeping system configurations streamlined and adaptable. Overcomplicating setups can create rigidity, making it harder for the system to adjust to unexpected situations without manual intervention. My approach ensures flexibility, allowing the system to respond dynamically to unforeseen situations or shifts in business needs. A well-designed system should empower efficiency, not hinder it.
Please share your favorite success story.
Helping establish Open Sky Group’s Managed Services group has been an exciting journey. Managed Services plays a vital role in OSG’s supply chain operations, offering not just day-to-day support but also long-term strategic guidance to clients. It’s more than simply troubleshooting – it’s about proactively driving continuous improvement. Managed Services enables organizations to streamline their operations and maximize performance over time. It’s a long-term partnership dedicated to making supply chains more agile, resilient, and effective.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the supply chain industry?
Gain hands-on experience across multiple supply chain roles to understand their interconnections. The broader your knowledge, the better you’ll anticipate challenges and adapt when disruptions arise. A well-rounded foundation builds problem-solving skills and strategic thinking for long-term success.
What is a fun fact about yourself that your clients may not know?
I had a birthday that was 35.5 hours long!
