50 Best Thought Leaders in Supply Chain (2026)
- Jonno White
- Mar 27
- 22 min read
If you are looking for the best thought leaders in supply chain to follow, learn from, or work with, you are in the right place. Supply chain management has evolved from a back-office function to one of the most critical strategic disciplines in business. The leaders shaping this field today are driving conversations around resilience, digital transformation, sustainability, and the future of global commerce.
This guide brings together 50 of the most influential supply chain thought leaders in the world. These are the people writing the books, hosting the podcasts, leading the research, advising the Fortune 500, and posting the insights on LinkedIn that help supply chain professionals stay ahead of the curve. Whether you are a supply chain executive looking for fresh perspectives or a professional building your network, this list will point you in the right direction.
How to Choose the Right Supply Chain Thought Leaders to Follow
With so many voices in the supply chain space, it helps to have a framework for deciding who to follow and learn from. Here are some criteria to consider:
Relevance to your role. A procurement specialist will benefit from different thought leaders than a logistics manager or a supply chain strategist. Look for leaders whose expertise aligns with your day-to-day challenges.
Active content creation. The best thought leaders do not just hold titles. They consistently share insights through LinkedIn posts, articles, podcasts, books, or conference presentations. Look for people who are actively contributing to the conversation.
Real-world experience. Academic research is valuable, but the most impactful thought leaders often combine scholarly knowledge with hands-on experience running supply chains, advising companies, or building businesses.
Diverse perspectives. The supply chain field spans continents, industries, and disciplines. Follow leaders from different regions and backgrounds to avoid blind spots in your thinking.
Engagement and community. The best thought leaders do not just broadcast. They engage with their audience, respond to comments, and foster communities of practice. This two-way dynamic makes following them far more valuable.
Track record of impact. Look for leaders who have demonstrable impact, whether through published research, successful consulting engagements, award-winning podcast episodes, or transformation projects that moved the needle.
The 50 Best Thought Leaders in Supply Chain (2026)
1. Jonno White
Founder, Consult Clarity | Certified Working Genius Facilitator | Author
Jonno White is a leadership team facilitator, keynote speaker, and bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out (with over 10,000 copies sold). As a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, Jonno works with leadership teams across industries, including supply chain and operations leaders, to unlock team dynamics, improve communication, and drive alignment.
His Leadership Conversations Podcast has featured over 230 episodes with leaders from more than 150 countries, and his 7 Questions Movement has engaged over 6,000 leaders globally. At the 2025 ASBA conference, his facilitation sessions achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating. While Jonno's expertise centres on leadership development and team facilitation rather than supply chain operations specifically, his work is deeply relevant to supply chain leaders who understand that the people side of the equation is often what makes or breaks operational excellence.
If you want help facilitating your supply chain leadership team, whether through a Working Genius workshop, a keynote, or an executive offsite, reach out to Jonno at jonno@consultclarity.org.
consultclarity.org
2. Yossi Sheffi
Professor of Engineering Systems and Director, MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics
Yossi Sheffi is one of the most cited and respected voices in supply chain risk and resilience. With more than four decades at MIT, he has shaped how organisations think about disruption, complexity, and recovery. His books, including The Resilient Enterprise, The Power of Resilience, and Balancing Green, have become essential reading for supply chain leaders navigating uncertainty.
Professor Sheffi is also a CSCMP Distinguished Service Award recipient and an active entrepreneur, having founded or co-founded five successful companies. His research blends academic rigour with practical relevance, making him a thought leader whose work translates directly to the boardroom.
sheffi.mit.edu
3. Knut Alicke
McKinsey Partner Emeritus | Professor, London Business School and University of Cologne
Knut Alicke is a globally recognised supply chain strategist who led McKinsey's European Supply Chain practice for two decades. Ranked among the top three global supply chain influencers, he advises organisations on digital supply chains, risk and resilience, advanced analytics, and large-scale supply chain transformations.
He holds a PhD in Logistics and a Habilitation in Supply Chain Management, and now serves as a visiting professor at London Business School and the University of Cologne. He also co-authored From Source to Sold, a book featuring insights from 26 supply chain leaders. His combination of consulting depth and academic credibility makes him one of the most authoritative voices in the field.
alicke-scm.com
4. Lora Cecere
Founder, Supply Chain Insights
Lora Cecere is a supply chain analyst, author, and researcher with over 30 years of experience helping organisations improve their supply chain performance. She founded Supply Chain Insights to deliver independent research that is free from vendor bias, and her work focuses on the intersection of strategy, analytics, and technology.
With more than 340,000 LinkedIn followers, Lora is one of the most widely followed supply chain voices on the platform. She publishes regularly through her blog, podcast, and research reports. Her ability to cut through hype and deliver data-driven insights has earned her a loyal following among supply chain executives.
supplychaininsights.com
5. Sheri Hinish
Supply Chain Queen | Senior Partner, Global Consulting Sustainability, Technology and Ecosystems, EY
Sheri Hinish, widely known as the Supply Chain Queen, is one of the most visible and influential voices at the intersection of supply chain, sustainability, and digital transformation. As a Senior Partner at EY, she advises Fortune 500 companies and governments on climate finance, circular economy, AI-driven supply chains, and regenerative business models.
She is the founding host of the Supply Chain Revolution podcast and has been consistently named a top supply chain influencer by multiple publications. Sheri's willingness to tackle big, systemic questions about the future of supply chains sets her apart from purely operational thinkers. She brings a vision for what supply chains can and should become.
supplychainqueen.com
6. Scott Luton
CEO and Founder, Supply Chain Now
Scott Luton is the founder and CEO of Supply Chain Now, one of the most listened-to supply chain media platforms in the world. Ranked the number one global supply chain thought leader and influencer by Thinkers360 in 2025, Scott has built a media ecosystem that includes podcasts, livestreams, and webinars featuring industry leaders from across the supply chain spectrum.
His background spans manufacturing, logistics, and corporate communications. What makes Scott particularly effective as a thought leader is his ability to make complex supply chain topics accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
supplychainnow.com
7. Adrian Gonzalez
President, Adelante SCM | Host, Talking Logistics
Adrian Gonzalez is a trusted industry analyst with more than 24 years of research experience in transportation management, logistics outsourcing, and global trade. He is the founder and host of Talking Logistics, an online video talk show that brings supply chain thought leaders and newsmakers to a global audience.
With over 250,000 LinkedIn followers, Adrian is also a LinkedIn Influencer who helps supply chain professionals stay current with the latest trends and innovations. He founded Indago, a market research community for supply chain practitioners, and holds a B.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Cornell University.
talkinglogistics.com
8. Professor Richard Wilding OBE
Emeritus Professor of Supply Chain Strategy, Cranfield University
Richard Wilding OBE is one of the world's leading academics in supply chain management and logistics. As Emeritus Professor of Supply Chain Strategy at Cranfield University, he has spent decades researching and teaching on topics including supply chain resilience, risk management, and digital transformation.
He received an OBE in 2013 for services to business and has served as Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK. His LinkedIn Learning course on building resilient supply chains has been widely subscribed, and his ability to bridge academic research with practical application makes him a go-to authority for supply chain professionals globally.
richardwilding.info
9. Daniel Stanton
Founder and CEO, Mr. Supply Chain | Author, Supply Chain Management for Dummies
Daniel Stanton, known as Mr. Supply Chain, has built one of the most accessible education platforms in the supply chain world. An MIT graduate and Navy veteran, his LinkedIn Learning courses have reached over 2.5 million learners globally. He is the author of Supply Chain Management for Dummies and has been recognised as an IBM Watson Supply Chain Futurist and a Pro to Know by Supply & Demand Chain Executive.
Daniel holds a Doctor of Business Administration from Cranfield University and lectures at the University of Arkansas. His mission is to inspire and empower millions of people by making supply chain management education accessible and practical.
danielstanton.com
10. Radu Palamariu
Managing Director, Alcott Global | Host, Leaders in Supply Chain and Logistics Podcast
Radu Palamariu is a prominent voice in executive supply chain leadership. As Managing Director of Alcott Global, he specialises in executive search and advisory for supply chain and logistics leaders across the globe. His podcast, Leaders in Supply Chain and Logistics, features in-depth conversations with some of the most senior supply chain executives in the world.
Radu co-authored From Source to Sold with Knut Alicke, bringing together insights from 26 global supply chain leaders. With more than 20 years of experience in consulting and executive search, he has a rare ability to connect the dots between talent, strategy, and operational excellence.
alcottglobal.com
11. Lisa Anderson
President, LMA Consulting Group | Supply Chain and Manufacturing Strategist
Lisa Anderson is the founder and president of LMA Consulting Group, where she specialises in manufacturing strategy and end-to-end supply chain transformation. She holds MBA, CSCP, and CLTD credentials and has been recognised as a Top 40 B2B Tech Influencer and a Top 50 ERP Influencer.
Lisa has built her reputation around reshoring strategies and advanced inventory management, topics that have moved from niche interest to mainstream urgency. She is regularly quoted by Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, Industry Week, and PBS, and her ability to connect supply chain strategy to broader geopolitical trends makes her insights particularly timely.
lma-consultinggroup.com
Digital Transformation and Analytics Leaders
12. Tom Raftery
Technology Evangelist and Sustainability Thought Leader | Host, The Resilient Supply Chain Podcast
Tom Raftery is a technology evangelist and sustainability thought leader who hosts The Resilient Supply Chain Podcast. Previously at SAP and Amazon, Tom brings a deep understanding of how technology intersects with supply chain operations. His podcast features C-suite executives, founders, and innovators from some of the world's most influential companies discussing climate, digital transformation, and supply chain resilience.
Ranked in the top five global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Tom's content consistently pushes the conversation forward on how technology and sustainability can drive supply chain innovation.
13. Bob Ferrari
Managing Director, The Ferrari Consulting and Research Group | Founder, Supply Chain Matters
Bob Ferrari is the founder of Supply Chain Matters, one of the longest-running and most respected supply chain blogs in the industry. As Managing Director of The Ferrari Consulting and Research Group, he provides strategic advisory services focused on digital transformation, technology architecture, and supply chain strategy.
His weekly columns and podcast episodes provide a consistently informed perspective on how global events, technology trends, and organisational dynamics shape supply chain performance.
theferrarigroup.com
14. Richard Howells
Vice President, Thought Leadership and Awareness, SAP
Richard Howells leads thought leadership and awareness for SAP's supply chain solutions. With decades of experience at the intersection of technology and supply chain, he consistently delivers insights on how digital tools, from AI and machine learning to IoT and digital twins, are reshaping the way organisations plan, source, make, and deliver products.
His writing and speaking regularly appear in top supply chain publications, and his ability to translate technical capability into business value makes him a key voice for technology-forward supply chain leaders.
15. Marcell Vollmer
CEO, Prospitalia Group | Former Chief Digital Officer, SAP
Marcell Vollmer is a digital supply chain leader who has held senior roles at SAP, Boston Consulting Group, and now Prospitalia Group. He is consistently ranked among the top global supply chain influencers and is known for his practical perspective on how digital transformation creates value across procurement and supply chain operations.
His LinkedIn presence is highly active, sharing insights on procurement innovation, digital strategy, and leadership. His experience spanning consulting, technology, and operational leadership gives him a well-rounded perspective.
16. Dr Muddassir Ahmed
Founder and CEO, SCMDOJO
Dr Muddassir Ahmed is the founder and CEO of SCMDOJO, a leading supply chain education and media platform. With a PhD in supply chain management, he has built SCMDOJO into a go-to resource for supply chain professionals seeking training, certification guidance, and career development support.
Ranked among the top 20 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Muddassir's content covers everything from supply chain analytics and planning to career strategy. His platform bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical professional development.
scmdojo.com
Procurement and Sourcing Thought Leaders
17. Kelly Barner
Owner, Buyers Meeting Point | Co-host, Art of Procurement Podcast
Kelly Barner is a procurement thought leader who runs Buyers Meeting Point, a procurement content creation and consulting firm. She is also co-host of the Art of Procurement podcast with Philip Ideson. Ranked second among global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360 in 2025, Kelly's writing and podcasting cover the strategic evolution of procurement.
Her work consistently challenges procurement professionals to think beyond cost savings and embrace their role as strategic business partners.
18. Philip Ideson
Founder, Art of Procurement
Philip Ideson founded Art of Procurement, one of the most influential procurement podcasts and communities in the world. His platform explores how procurement leaders can drive value creation, innovation, and strategic impact within their organisations.
Philip moved up 13 places in the Thinkers360 global rankings from 2024 to 2025, reflecting his growing influence. His background spans both practitioner and advisory roles, giving him credibility with procurement leaders at all levels.
artofprocurement.com
19. Omid Ghamami
The Procurement Doctor | Procurement and Negotiations Expert
Omid Ghamami is a globally recognised procurement and negotiations expert who has earned the title The Procurement Doctor. Named a Top 10 Procurement Influencer and Top 10 Supply Chain Influencer, he brings decades of Fortune 50 executive experience to his consulting and training work.
His approach combines deep technical knowledge with practical negotiation strategies that deliver measurable results. He is known for his no-nonsense style and his ability to help procurement teams achieve significantly better outcomes.
20. Sarah Scudder
Consultant | Procurement and Supply Chain Thought Leader
Sarah Scudder is a procurement and supply chain thought leader who combines expertise in digital transformation with a strong personal brand on LinkedIn. Ranked among the top 50 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, she actively shares insights on procurement technology, leadership, and career development.
Her content resonates with procurement professionals looking for practical guidance on leveraging technology and building strategic influence within their organisations.
Supply Chain Media and Community Leaders
21. Sarah Barnes-Humphrey
Founder, Let's Talk Supply Chain | Supply Chain Content Creator
Sarah Barnes-Humphrey is the founder of Let's Talk Supply Chain, one of the most recognised supply chain media brands. Her podcast and content platform have created a vibrant community of supply chain professionals who share knowledge, challenges, and solutions.
Sarah is known for championing diversity in the supply chain industry and for making complex topics approachable. Ranked among the top supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, she has built a platform that amplifies diverse voices and perspectives in the field.
letstalksc.com
22. Greg White
Principal and Host, Supply Chain Now
Greg White is co-host and principal at Supply Chain Now alongside Scott Luton. With deep experience in supply chain technology and strategy, Greg brings a practitioner's perspective to the platform's content. He is consistently ranked among the top global supply chain influencers.
His commentary is valued for its directness and depth. Greg is particularly effective at analysing supply chain technology trends and their practical implications for leaders.
23. Mike Mortson
Founder, Supply Chain Game Changer
Mike Mortson is the founder of Supply Chain Game Changer, a content platform dedicated to sharing supply chain best practices, trends, and innovations. Ranked among the top 20 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Mike's platform curates and creates content that helps supply chain professionals stay informed and inspired.
His consistent publishing cadence and focus on practical, actionable content have built a loyal following among supply chain professionals.
supplychaingamechanger.com
24. Maria Villablanca
Founder, Villablanca Consulting | Host, Transform Talks Podcast
Maria Villablanca brings 29 years of experience advising FTSE 100 brands and supply chain professionals on business transformation. She is the founder of Villablanca Consulting and host of the Transform Talks Podcast, and has been recognised as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Supply Chain Leadership.
Ranked in the top five global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360 in 2025, Maria's content explores the intersection of transformation, technology, and leadership. She is also a Gartner Peer Community Ambassador.
25. Patrick Van Hull
Supply Chain Storyteller
Patrick Van Hull has carved out a unique niche as the Supply Chain Storyteller. His approach to thought leadership emphasises narrative and storytelling as tools for making supply chain concepts more engaging and memorable.
Ranked among the top 25 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Patrick's creative approach to content sets him apart from more traditional analysts and commentators. His work demonstrates that effective communication is itself a critical supply chain capability.
Academic and Research Leaders
26. Hau Lee
Professor, Stanford Graduate School of Business | Director, Stanford Global Supply Chain Management Forum
Hau Lee is the mind behind the Triple-A Supply Chain concept, one of the most cited ideas in supply chain strategy. As a professor at Stanford GSB and director of the Stanford Global Supply Chain Management Forum, he has shaped how a generation of leaders thinks about agility, adaptability, and alignment in supply chain design.
His research has been published in the Harvard Business Review and other leading journals, and his frameworks continue to influence both academic thinking and corporate strategy.
27. Dr John Gattorna
Supply Chain Thought Leader | Author | Advisor
Dr John Gattorna is an Australian supply chain thought leader, author, and advisor who has spent decades researching and consulting on supply chain strategy and alignment. His work on dynamic supply chain alignment, which matches supply chain configurations to customer buying behaviours, has influenced organisations globally.
He is the author of several influential books, including Dynamic Supply Chains and Transforming Supply Chains, and is recognised as one of the most original thinkers in the field.
28. Lisa Ellram
Rees Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management, Miami University
Lisa Ellram is among the most cited supply chain scholars in the world. As the Rees Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management at Miami University's Farmer School of Business, her research spans sustainability, buyer-supplier relationships, services purchasing, offshoring, and supply chain cost management.
Her academic work has provided the theoretical foundations that many supply chain practitioners draw on in their daily decision-making. She is a recipient of the CSCMP Distinguished Service Award and a fellow of multiple professional associations.
29. Christopher Craighead
FedEx Chair in Supply Chain Management, University of Tennessee
Christopher Craighead holds the FedEx Chair in Supply Chain Management at the University of Tennessee's Haslam College of Business. His research focuses on supply chain disruptions, buyer-supplier exchanges, and the intersection of supply chain management and entrepreneurship.
His work is widely published and cited, and he regularly engages with industry practitioners to ensure his research addresses real-world challenges facing supply chain leaders.
30. Remko Van Hoek
Professor, University of Arkansas | 2025 CSCMP Distinguished Service Award Recipient
Remko Van Hoek is a professor at the University of Arkansas and the 2025 recipient of the CSCMP Distinguished Service Award, the highest individual honour in the supply chain profession. His career spans academia and industry, with senior roles at Nike, PwC, and Disney.
He is a prolific researcher and author, with a focus on supply chain leadership, talent development, and operational strategy. His recognition by CSCMP reflects decades of significant contributions to the field.
Sustainability and Circular Economy Leaders
31. Tom Linton
Supply Chain Executive | Co-author, Flow
Tom Linton is a veteran supply chain executive whose career includes chief procurement and supply chain officer roles at major corporations including Flextronics, LG Electronics, and Agility. He co-authored Flow: How the Best Supply Chains Thrive with Rob Handfield, exploring how velocity and visibility drive supply chain performance in the digital age.
His practical experience running large, complex global supply chains gives his thought leadership a distinctive operational credibility.
32. Robert Handfield
Bank of America University Distinguished Professor, NC State University
Robert Handfield is a leading supply chain academic at North Carolina State University, where he serves as Executive Director of the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative. He co-authored Flow with Tom Linton and has published extensively on supplier development, procurement strategy, and supply chain risk.
His work consistently bridges the gap between academic theory and industry practice, and he is a regular speaker at major supply chain conferences.
33. Joanna Martinez
Founder, Supply Chain Advisors LLC
Joanna Martinez is the founder of Supply Chain Advisors LLC, where she helps organisations improve their supply chain and procurement operations. Ranked among the top 25 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, she brings extensive practitioner experience to her advisory work.
Her LinkedIn content focuses on practical supply chain improvement strategies, leadership development, and procurement best practices. She is known for her generous sharing of knowledge and her commitment to developing the next generation of supply chain leaders.
34. Justin Goldston
Professor, Penn State University | Supply Chain and Blockchain Expert
Dr Justin Goldston is a professor at Penn State University and a recognised expert on blockchain applications in supply chain management. Ranked in the top 10 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, he combines academic expertise with a strong digital presence.
His research and content explore how emerging technologies, including blockchain, AI, and digital platforms, are reshaping supply chain transparency, traceability, and trust.
35. Atul Vashistha
Founder and Chairman, Neo Group
Atul Vashistha is the founder and chairman of Neo Group, a supply chain risk and ESG intelligence firm. He is a recognised thought leader in supply chain risk management, responsible sourcing, and ESG compliance, with particular expertise in helping organisations manage third-party and supplier risks across global supply chains.
His work sits at the critical intersection of supply chain operations and corporate responsibility, a space that is becoming increasingly important as regulations tighten globally.
Technology and Innovation Leaders
36. David Food
CEO, Prophetic Technology
David Food is the CEO of Prophetic Technology and a consistently ranked global supply chain influencer. His content focuses on supply chain innovation, technology adoption, and the future of digital supply chains.
Ranked among the top 10 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, David's thought leadership combines a deep technical understanding with strategic vision for how technology will reshape supply chain operations in the coming years.
37. Len Pannett
Founder, Supercharg3d Management Services
Len Pannett is the founder of Supercharg3d Management Services, specialising in 3D printing and additive manufacturing applications for supply chain. Ranked among the top 15 global supply chain influencers, he is a pioneer in exploring how additive manufacturing can reshape traditional supply chain models.
His unique niche, bridging 3D printing technology with supply chain strategy, makes him a particularly forward-looking voice in the field.
38. Susan Walsh
Founder, The Classification Guru
Susan Walsh is the founder of The Classification Guru, specialising in data classification and spend analysis for procurement and supply chain. She has built a reputation as the go-to expert on cleaning, classifying, and making sense of messy procurement data.
Ranked among the top 35 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Susan's work highlights the often-overlooked importance of data quality in driving supply chain decision-making. Her practical, down-to-earth approach to a complex topic has earned her a loyal following.
39. Gary Lynch
CEO, The Risk Project
Gary Lynch is the CEO of The Risk Project and an expert in supply chain risk quantification. His work focuses on helping organisations understand and measure the financial impact of supply chain disruptions, an area that has gained urgency in the wake of recent global events.
Ranked among the top 30 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Gary's approach to risk management is data-driven and financially grounded, making his insights particularly valuable for CFOs and board-level audiences.
Industry-Specific and Regional Leaders
40. Cliff Henson
Corporate Vice President, Cloud Supply Chain and Engineering, Microsoft
Cliff Henson was named the number one supply chain leader globally by Alcott Global in 2025. As Corporate Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain and Engineering at Microsoft, he oversees one of the world's most complex technology supply chains.
His recognition reflects the growing importance of digital infrastructure supply chains and the leadership required to manage them at scale. His perspective on building resilient technology supply chains is particularly relevant as more organisations depend on cloud infrastructure.
41. Melissa Drew
Founder, Simply Transformed
Melissa Drew is the founder of Simply Transformed and a consistently ranked global supply chain influencer. Her work focuses on helping organisations simplify and transform their supply chain operations.
Ranked among the top 15 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Melissa's thought leadership emphasises practical, people-centred approaches to supply chain transformation. Her content resonates with leaders who are looking for actionable improvement strategies.
42. Cristian Lienas
Founder, Mirihi
Cristian Lienas is the founder of Mirihi and a top 10 global supply chain influencer according to Thinkers360. His work spans supply chain strategy, innovation, and thought leadership, with a particular focus on helping organisations navigate digital transformation.
His consistently high ranking reflects the quality and relevance of his content, which reaches supply chain professionals worldwide.
43. Hervé Legenvre
Director, European Institute of Purchasing Management (EIPM)
Hervé Legenvre is the Director of the European Institute of Purchasing Management (EIPM), one of Europe's leading procurement and supply chain education institutions. His work focuses on procurement strategy, supplier innovation, and value creation.
Ranked among the top 30 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Hervé brings a distinctly European perspective to supply chain thought leadership, emphasising strategic procurement and collaborative supplier relationships.
44. Simon Geale
Chief Procurement Officer, Proxima
Simon Geale is the CPO of Proxima, a procurement consultancy that helps organisations unlock value from their supply chains. He is a ranked global supply chain influencer and a regular commentator on procurement trends, technology adoption, and the evolving role of the procurement function.
His perspective combines strategic thinking with practical execution experience, making his insights valuable for procurement leaders looking to drive change within their organisations.
45. Daniel Barnes
Founder, World of Procurement
Daniel Barnes is the founder of World of Procurement, a content platform dedicated to helping procurement professionals develop their skills and advance their careers. Ranked among the top 40 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Daniel's work fills an important gap in the market by focusing on professional development and career progression in procurement.
His content is particularly valuable for mid-career professionals looking to move into senior procurement leadership roles.
46. Nada Sanders
Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management, Northeastern University
Nada Sanders is a Distinguished Professor at Northeastern University and the author of Supply Chain Management: A Global Perspective, a widely used textbook that brings an international lens to supply chain education. Her research focuses on demand forecasting, supply chain analytics, and global supply chain strategy.
Her academic work has shaped how thousands of students and professionals think about supply chain management in a global context.
47. Dr Chris Caplice
Senior Research Scientist, MIT | Chief Scientist, DAT Solutions
Dr Chris Caplice is a senior research scientist at MIT and the chief scientist at DAT Solutions. He specialises in transportation planning and modelling, procurement and bidding, and supply chain education. His MIT courses on supply chain management are among the most popular on the MITx platform.
His dual role in academia and industry gives him a unique ability to translate cutting-edge research into practical tools and methodologies for transportation and logistics professionals.
48. Mark Perera
CEO, Vizibl
Mark Perera is the CEO of Vizibl, a supplier collaboration platform that helps organisations build more strategic, transparent, and sustainable supplier relationships. Ranked among the top 35 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, Mark's thought leadership focuses on the power of supplier collaboration to drive innovation, resilience, and ESG performance.
His work reflects a growing recognition that supply chain excellence depends not just on internal operations but on the quality of relationships across the entire supplier ecosystem.
49. Eric Wilson
Institute of Business Forecasting and Planning
Eric Wilson is associated with the Institute of Business Forecasting and Planning (IBF), where he contributes to advancing demand planning and forecasting practices. Ranked among the top 35 global supply chain influencers, his work focuses on one of the foundational capabilities in supply chain management: getting the demand signal right.
His expertise in forecasting and demand planning is critical for organisations looking to improve their S&OP processes and reduce the costly impact of forecast errors.
50. Norman Katz
President, Katzscan Inc.
Norman Katz is the president of Katzscan Inc. and a recognised expert in supply chain security and compliance. Ranked among the top 35 global supply chain influencers by Thinkers360, his work addresses the often-overlooked area of supply chain security, including customs compliance, trade security, and supply chain integrity.
His specialisation in security and compliance fills an important niche in the supply chain thought leadership landscape, particularly as global trade becomes more complex and regulated.
What to Expect When Following Supply Chain Thought Leaders
Following supply chain thought leaders is one of the most cost-effective ways to stay current with industry trends, learn new frameworks, and build your professional network. Here is what you can typically expect:
Regular content on LinkedIn and other platforms. Most of the leaders on this list post frequently on LinkedIn, sharing articles, research findings, and practical insights. Following them will enrich your feed with supply chain knowledge.
Podcasts and video content. Many of these thought leaders host or appear on podcasts, providing deeper dives into specific topics. These are excellent for learning during commutes or downtime.
Books and research reports. Several leaders on this list are published authors. Their books provide comprehensive frameworks that you can apply to your own supply chain challenges.
Conference appearances and keynotes. Many of these leaders speak at major supply chain conferences like CSCMP EDGE, Gartner Supply Chain Symposium, and NextGen Supply Chain. Attending their sessions provides an opportunity for deeper learning and networking.
Community and engagement. The best thought leaders foster communities around their content. Engaging with their posts and joining their platforms can open doors to meaningful professional connections.
Supply Chain Thought Leadership: Pricing and Access
Most supply chain thought leadership is freely accessible through LinkedIn, podcasts, and blogs. Here is a general guide to what different levels of engagement might cost:
Free resources. LinkedIn posts, podcast episodes, and blog articles from most leaders on this list are available at no cost. This is the best starting point for building your knowledge.
Books and courses. Expect to invest $20 to $60 for books and $30 to $200 for online courses. Many leaders offer courses on LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, or their own platforms.
Conferences and events. Major supply chain conferences typically cost $1,000 to $3,000 for registration, plus travel and accommodation. Many conferences offer virtual attendance options at lower price points.
Consulting and advisory. Working directly with supply chain thought leaders as consultants or advisors typically starts at $2,000 to $5,000 per day, depending on the individual's profile and the scope of engagement.
Executive education programmes. University-based programmes at institutions like MIT, Cranfield, or Stanford range from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on duration and depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a supply chain thought leader?
A supply chain thought leader is someone who consistently produces original, influential content that shapes how professionals think about and practice supply chain management. This can include academics, consultants, executives, podcast hosts, authors, and analysts. The common thread is that they advance the conversation in meaningful ways, whether through research, practical frameworks, or industry commentary.
How do I stay updated on supply chain trends?
The most effective approach is to follow thought leaders on LinkedIn, subscribe to supply chain podcasts like Supply Chain Now, Talking Logistics, and Leaders in Supply Chain, and read independent research from sources like Supply Chain Insights and Supply Chain Matters. Attending at least one major conference per year, such as CSCMP EDGE or Gartner Supply Chain Symposium, will also keep you connected to the latest thinking.
What skills are most important for supply chain leaders in 2026?
The most in-demand skills include data analytics and AI literacy, risk management and resilience planning, sustainability and ESG knowledge, strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management, and cross-functional leadership. Many of the thought leaders on this list offer courses and content that can help you develop these skills.
How can supply chain thought leaders help my organisation?
Supply chain thought leaders can help your organisation through consulting engagements, keynote speaking, workshop facilitation, and advisory services. Their value lies in bringing outside perspectives, frameworks, and best practices that your internal team may not have access to. Some leaders also offer assessment tools, benchmarking services, and training programmes.
What is the difference between a supply chain influencer and a supply chain thought leader?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a thought leader typically produces original research, frameworks, or methodologies that advance the field. An influencer may focus more on content curation, community building, and amplification of existing ideas. The strongest voices in supply chain, like many on this list, combine both qualities: they create original thinking and have the platform to share it widely.
Conclusion
The 50 supply chain thought leaders on this list represent the best minds working to advance how organisations plan, source, make, and deliver products and services. From MIT professors and McKinsey partners to podcast hosts and procurement innovators, these leaders offer a wealth of knowledge that is largely accessible for free.
Following these thought leaders is one of the simplest and most effective ways to sharpen your thinking, stay current with trends, and build the network that will support your career growth. The supply chain field is evolving rapidly, with AI, sustainability, and geopolitical complexity creating new challenges every day. The leaders on this list are the people making sense of these changes and helping others navigate them.
If you are a supply chain leader looking for help with the people side of your operations, whether through team facilitation, leadership development, or a Working Genius workshop, reach out to Jonno White at jonno@consultclarity.org. Great supply chains start with great teams.