In the Spotlight: James Foran

04 May In the Spotlight: James Foran

Passion is contagious. In the workplace, it makes those around you feel excited — and everyone wins. At FourPL we nuture the passion that enables our team to lead, support, and mentor others with that ‘zeal and zest’ for everything supply chain and it’s people, This month we put a spotlight on one of our TM consultants who does just that and talks about the next big thing in SCM.

What industry are you currently working in and what is your role?

Currently deeply imbedded within the Transport Industry. My specific specialty of Transport Management Systems keeps me very busy.

What are the key challenges you clients are facing?

There is a very strong push in the IT industry to move to standardization, and COTS systems, however, this requires very intimate understanding of both IT and Business. Compromises will have to be on IT, or Business. Finding out when to push back on a business requirement vs bending/customizing an IT system is a critical skill.

What are the things you are working on to help your clients overcome these challenges?

Clear communication on both sides is even more important now with the change in focus. Working with the business to gain detailed insights into the business, while always presenting options, and rational. Make recommendations with options – not decisions for the business.

What do you think is the “next big thing” within SCM or, what should we all keep an eye out for?

Cryptography. Creating trustless systems, which may or may-not be built on blockchain technology. Enabling end to end visibility, and very fast settlement of transactions, with no reconciliation required.

What traits and skills do you think are necessary to be able to succeed in the role you do?

Listen, before speaking. Asking the dumb questions to validate understanding, and not being afraid to make mistakes.

What song best describes your work ethic?

Butterflies and Hurricanes, Muse. The band has really south since the first two albums but hey, what can you do.

What would a perfect day look like to you?

Any day that starts with a bike ride, and ends with a beer.