As global supply chains navigate through cybersecurity threats and rapid technological integration, companies must rethink their strategies to stay competitive. Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting corporate systems through sophisticated tactics, such as email infiltration, to gain access to sensitive data, including bills of lading. This underscores the need for organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity and ensure their supply chains remain secure.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton and Karin Bursa sit down with Gustav Khambatta, SVP, Head of Freight Payment Sales at U.S. Bank, to explore key themes in supply chain management. They discuss the evolving role of cybersecurity, AI's impact on the industry, and the challenges posed by cargo theft and security breaches.

They talk about the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, highlighting how technology is transforming business operations. AI is being integrated into supply chain processes, with use cases ranging from fraud prevention to streamlining document verification. However, as AI adoption accelerates, so does the potential for security vulnerabilities. The conversation underscores the importance of continuous adaptation in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape, where technology and security will play a central role in shaping the future.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:02) Sports talk: Patriots, Falcons, F1

(06:19) Gustav’s professional journey

(08:01) US Bank Freight Payment Index insights

(14:39) Cybersecurity in the corporate world

(20:22) AI in supply chain and cybersecurity

(23:28) AI and cybersecurity integration

(24:08) Regulatory environment and leadership challenges

(24:38) Supply chain evolution and technology

(27:26) AI in supply chain management

(29:35) Reflections on 2025

(32:29) Energy demand and AI

(37:02) Predictions for 2026

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Gustav Khambatta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gustav-khambatta-384852/
2. Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com/index.html
3. Download the most recent edition of the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: bit.ly/scn-us-bank
4. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
5. Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
6. Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join

Disruptions in global supply chains, from trade uncertainties to the rapid integration of AI, are challenging companies to rethink their strategies. At the same time, businesses must address talent shortages, enhance workforce capabilities, and navigate an ever-evolving technological landscape. The result is a supply chain ecosystem at a pivotal moment, requiring leaders to blend policy, talent, and technology to stay competitive.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton is joined by Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, to reflect on the state of supply chain in 2025 and beyond. Together, they explore the significant challenges and opportunities in supply chain planning, including AI adoption, talent strategy, and the impact of tariffs.

Scott and Mike discuss how AI is moving from pilot to scale, helping businesses unlock significant value across sourcing and logistics. They highlight the importance of integrating AI with talent strategies to empower workers rather than replace them. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of trade policy and how companies must build it into their long-term strategy. The episode concludes with insights into navigating the complexities of modern supply chains and the imperative for businesses to embrace innovation while managing uncertainty.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(03:05) Impact of the space shuttle program

(05:17) Overcoming setbacks in large-scale initiatives

(07:25) Shifting from AI pilots to scaled solutions

(09:11) Space exploration’s unexpected byproducts for innovation

(10:07) Reflecting on supply chain performance in 2025

(12:42) Adapting supply chain strategies to tariffs

(15:05) Balancing AI implementation with talent development

(16:19) Upskilling talent in the age of AI

(19:31) Evaluating AI’s role in workforce reductions

(21:13) Connecting AI, talent, and corporate strategies

(23:24) Aligning AI and talent strategies for 2026

(27:05) Supply chain leaders embracing complexity and uncertainty

(34:05) Targeting AI solutions to specific business problems

Additional Links & Resources:

1. Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
2. Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en
3. Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
4. Check out Gartner's "Year in Review: Supply Chain 2025" by Stan Aronow and Wade McDaniel: https://www.gartner.com/en/supply-chain/insights/beyond-supply-chain-blog/year-in-review-supply-chain-2025
5. Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
6. Watch and listen to more

In this classic episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton welcomes Dr. Stephanie Thomas and Dr. Rod Thomas, associate professors of Supply Chain Management at the Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of supply chain education, talent development, and the critical role of collaboration between academia and industry.

Stephanie and Rod share insights on preparing the NOW generation of supply chain leaders, discussing the increasing awareness of supply chain careers, the importance of experiential learning, and how companies can build stronger internship pipelines. They also dive into the intersection of retail media networks and supply chain strategy—an emerging opportunity to shape demand and improve operational efficiency.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Rod: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-thomas-a409a41/
• Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniethomasuark/
• Learn more about the Sam M. Walton School of Business: https://walton.uark.edu/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/classroom-boardroom-preparing-now-generation-supply-chain-leaders-1404