Leading with Purpose: Lessons from Marty Duff, SVP of Supply Chain & Operations at YETI

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Marty Duff, SVP of Supply Chain & Operations at YETI, to explore the complexities of managing a global supply chain for one of the world's most iconic premium brands. Marty shares insights into YETI's product-driven approach, emphasizing innovation across their food and beverage, gear and equipment, and soft goods categories. He discusses strategies for building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification, maintaining three key sourcing markets to mitigate risks like tariffs and global disruptions. Marty delves into essential leadership skills, particularly curiosity, and how empowering teams to make data-driven decisions drives organizational success. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on navigating industry transitions across technology, CPG, and retail, and learn how to build high-performing teams in volatile markets. This conversation offers a masterclass in balancing operational excellence with the unique demands of a premium consumer brand.

Takeaways:

• Building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification
• Leading product-driven innovation at YETI
• Empowering teams for data-driven decision-making
• Leadership lessons across diverse industries

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Guest Bio:

Marty Duff has been with YETI since November 2022 as SVP Supply Chain & Operations, overseeing all global sourcing, planning, quality, logistics, fulfillment and inventory controls and continuous improvement initiatives for the Company. Before joining YETI, Mr. Duff spent 11 years at VF Corporation in several supply chain leadership roles, most recently as the Vice President, Supply Chain – America's Region, where he led all supply chain and operations planning and logistics for brands including The North Face, Vans, Timberland, and Dickies across the US, Canada, Mexico and distributor markets. Prior to his time at VF Corporation, Marty spent nine years at Johnson & Johnson in a number of operational leadership positions for brands like Neutrogena, Aveeno, Johnson's Baby. He holds a B.S. in Marketing and International Business and an MS, Business Administration, from Penn State University.