Supply Chain Networks and Personal Networking: A Conversation with Guy Courtin

What happens behind the scenes to get that package to your doorstep? Guy Courtin pulls back the curtain on the hidden world of retail logistics in this eye-opening conversation about supply chain innovation, technology adoption, and what consumers never see.

As a veteran supply chain expert with 25 years of industry experience, Guy brings refreshing clarity to complex topics. He explains how the digital revolution has completely transformed retail by shifting power from retailers to consumers. "Digital has given power to us as consumers," Guy notes, describing how his son would immediately search online when a store didn't have the Lego set he wanted. This consumer empowerment creates tremendous pressure on supply chains to deliver faster and more efficiently.

The discussion takes a fascinating turn when exploring technology adoption. Guy cautions against the blind pursuit of buzzworthy innovations without clear purpose, particularly with artificial intelligence. "We're trying to predict the future with the past. That doesn't work," he observes, sharing how Motorola once ramped up Razr production just as the iPhone was introduced. His balanced perspective emphasizes finding the right applications for technology rather than viewing it as either a universal solution or an existential threat.

Perhaps most compelling is Guy's insight into how supply chains are evolving from just-in-time models to more resilient systems in response to global disruptions. He explains how retailers are rethinking inventory strategies while simultaneously exploring personalization options that can customize products at the latest possible stage in production.

Whether you're a retail professional looking to understand supply chain dynamics or simply curious about how products move through our increasingly connected world, this conversation offers valuable perspective on the infrastructure that powers modern commerce. As Guy reminds us, "You have to be your number one champion" - advice that resonates far beyond supply chain careers.

Guy Courtin Bio:

Guy Courtin is a well-respected thought leader and speaker on the future of supply chain, automation, and technology trends. As the Vice President of Industry and Global Alliances at Tecsys, he leads their omnichannel supply chain technology go-to-market strategy and oversees the global alliance program. He brings over 25 years of experience in the supply chain industry, having held senior leadership roles at 6 Rivers, Infor, Progress Software, and i2 Technologies. In addition, he has been an industry analyst covering the supply chain space for SCM World, Constellation Research, and Forrester Research. Guy holds an MBA from the Olin School at Babson College, a Master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and a Bachelor’s degree from The College of the Holy Cross.

Guy is a RETHINK Retail Top Expert. He has been featured in numerous industry publications, podcasts, and panels speaking on the evolving supply chain ecosystem, the role of technology, and the interplay between physical and digital customer experiences. He proffers insight into the future of the supply chain and how evolving technologies are forging new paradigms.