InX Executive Exchange: C-Tech leaders unite to explore supply chain innovation
Guests enjoying some refreshments at the Hotel Du Vin in Birmingham
On Thursday 12th June, a group of technology leaders met to discuss how technology can empower supply chains in various ways, from aiding asset tracking and optimisation through IoT and analytics, to the effective use of digital twins, AI-augmented customer engagement, accelerating automation and machine learning.
Hosted by InX, in partnership with Investigo — also part of The IN Group alongside InX — and Bhushan Bagde, CTIO at Calor, it proved to be an insightful session filled with valuable knowledge sharing and real-world experience. It was clear from the discussion that technology can have a profound impact on driving efficiencies and revenue growth particularly at a time when political and economic factors are creating additional business pressures.
The power of data in asset tracking and forecasting
The initial discussion focused on the movement of assets through businesses and supply chains, and the role of data and data science in tracking them. Key themes included the importance of collaboration across the entire supply chain and partner ecosystem, capturing front-line employee insights, and having a clear focus on what data is collected and why to avoid unnecessary or redundant data capture.
Sample tracking (rather than attempting to track every single asset) was noted as a cost-effective approach that still delivers rigour, while historical or third-party data can support demand forecasting. However, participants also cautioned that pre- and post-pandemic trends along with black swan events can distort demand patterns and reduce forecasting accuracy.
Tackling complexity in modern supply chains
For businesses that have grown through acquisition or operate across borders, additional supply chain complexity was acknowledged. Technologies like Palantir Foundry and the broader value of unified data platforms were discussed as solutions to navigating complex data structures across multiple entities.
Staying agile with a diverse supplier base
The importance of maintaining a diverse supplier ecosystem rather than relying on a single-source model was also highlighted as critical to remaining agile, staying compliant with evolving legislation, and meeting changing business needs. Additionally, increasing labour costs and evolving customer expectations are impacting business location decisions and reshaping the global supply chain landscape.
AI in action: From operational efficiency to Agentic AI
With AI being top of mind for many IT leaders and executive boards, the group explored successful use cases of AI implementation particularly in solving business challenges and driving operational efficiency. There was also discussion around early steps being taken to productise Agentic AI within the group. Importantly, ethical considerations in the deployment of AI emerged as a shared priority, with leaders emphasising the importance of responsible and transparent AI use.
Strengthening cybersecurity
The session concluded with a wide-ranging discussion on cybersecurity, covering topics such as the pros and cons of cyber insurance, the integration of cyber and physical security measures, and steps being taken to reduce reliance on BYOD (Bring Your Own Device).
Simulated phishing attacks were widely recognised as common practice, with a strong emphasis on user education. For global organisations, participants stressed the importance of tailoring communications accounting for multiple languages and localisation to effectively engage users and mitigate risk.
TLDR: Key takeaways from the InX Executive Exchange
Data-led asset tracking: Prioritise purposeful data collection, leverage sample tracking, and use historical data to enhance supply chain visibility and forecasting accuracy.
Platform integration for complexity: Unified data platforms like Palantir Foundry help manage complexity across multi-entity or post-M&A operations.
AI with impact: AI is being effectively applied to solve operational challenges, with ethical and transparent deployment remaining a top priority.
Diversification is key: A diverse supplier base supports agility, compliance, and resilience in an evolving regulatory and geopolitical landscape.
Cybersecurity and communication: Cyber readiness requires a blend of user education, localised communication, and integrated digital-physical security strategies.
More from InX
Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to the discussion — it was a thoroughly insightful and engaging session. To find out about future events, make sure you subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
If you’d like to continue the conversation or explore how InX can support your technology talent needs, feel free to reach out to the team who hosted this event: Natalie Whittlesey, Dan Manton, Chris Seel and Helen Miller.
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