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Umesh Kumar Sharma, a supply chain leader at a major management consulting firm, has worked in supply chain management for two decades. His work in artificial intelligence and digital transformation has influenced how organizations approach supply chain operations in the global marketplace.
In response to supply chain vulnerabilities revealed by recent global events, Sharma has established himself in the industry through his work with advanced technologies. He discusses digital transformation, AI implementation, and current challenges in supply chain management.
Q: What industry are you in, and what does your role entail?
Umesh Sharma: I work in supply chain consulting at a Big Four management consulting firm. As a senior transformation leader, I manage projects for global organizations, including Fortune 100 companies. I work with SAP solutions to enhance supply chain planning. My role combines strategy, technology, and operations to help organizations develop integrated digital supply chain networks.
Q: What does your day-to-day work involve?
Umesh Sharma: As a global supply chain transformation leader, I assist companies in updating their supply chain processes. My work involves implementing digital supply chain solutions integrating planning, forecasting, sales and operations planning, supply and response management, and inventory optimization.
I use platforms like SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) and SAP S/4HANA to help organizations respond to demand changes and manage supply disruptions. The objective is to develop data-driven supply chains that support business competitiveness in current market conditions.
Q: How have you innovated or contributed to changing the industry?
Umesh Sharma: I developed attach rates in SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) to improve forecasting accuracy. This modification allows companies to shift from traditional planning to a unified, predictive approach.
I wrote “Introducing Operational Planning with SAP IBP for Response and Supply,” which guides organizations in managing disruptions and inventory while meeting customer demand.
I have developed several AI-driven tools for supply chain management. These include a Conversational AI-based chatbot for accessing key performance indicators, a Collaborative Event-Based Planning Tool for managing disruptions, and a Generative AI-Based Supply Chain Troubleshooter for identifying potential issues.
Q: Can you share some key milestones from your career?
Umesh Sharma: In recent years, I’ve worked with various industries, including high-tech, semiconductors, life sciences, and aerospace. A significant project involved working on supply chain resilience in the U.S. semiconductor industry, supporting domestic production initiatives under the CHIPS Act.
I have collaborated with approximately 35 U.S. companies, including Fortune 100 organizations, to revise their supply chain strategies, moving from reactive models to digital networks capable of managing disruptions.
Q: What challenges do supply chains face today, and how does your work address them?
Umesh Sharma: Current supply chain challenges include global disruptions, such as pandemics and geopolitical changes. Common issues involve limited flexibility, risk assessment capabilities, and cross-functional collaboration.
Using real-time data, predictive planning, and AI-driven solutions helps organizations address these challenges. This strategy has improved forecast accuracy, inventory management, and supply chain collaboration.
Q: You’ve authored thought leadership pieces and a seminal book. How does this reflect your role as a thought leader?
Umesh Sharma: My book on operational planning with SAP IBP combines practical experience with insights about transitioning from static to flexible operational frameworks.
I have published research in industry journals covering AI-driven S&OP and S&OE processes, demand and supply segmentation in the U.S. semiconductor industry, and AI and machine learning in demand forecasting. I also participate in university conferences, engaging with students and academics in the field.
Sharma’s work demonstrates practical applications of technology in supply chain management. His contributions are particularly evident in the U.S. semiconductor industry and align with the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022’s objectives to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
As demand for advanced chips increases, partly due to artificial intelligence applications, Sharma’s strategies continue to influence industry practices and sustainability efforts.
