How can tier two suppliers turn complexity into opportunity? In a recent episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets podcast, Jenni Smith, VP of Supply Chain at Royal Technologies, shares how her team navigates modern supply chain challenges with clarity, speed, and innovation. From leveraging automation and AI to applying MMOG/LE as a tool for process improvement, she highlights how proactive strategies unlock efficiency, reduce risk, and strengthen collaboration across the supply chain.
Key themes from this episode include:
Leveraging automation and robotics to reduce labor constraints and boost efficiency
Using AI for demand sensing, forecasting, and identifying risks months in advance
Applying MMOG/LE as a framework for profitability and process improvement
Communication speed and context as critical factors for supply chain stability
Strategies to prevent supply chain fatigue and burnout in small teams
Strengthening engagement between tier one and tier two suppliers
How AIAG membership supports training, collaboration, and supplier development
Jenni also emphasizes that visibility into the why behind OEM decisions is just as important as the numbers themselves and discusses the human side of supply chain management: rotating responsibilities, allowing recovery time, and joining teams in the trenches to help prevent burnout.
Check out the full episode to learn more.