Tough trading environment calls for supply chain innovation

Linda Reddy, supply chain director for Nando’s IMEA

In the midst of an ever-volatile economy, rising unemployment and a highly competitive business environment, Reddy believes that South Africa’s fighting spirit is a driving force for better things to come.

She believes the region is bursting with possibility and that the key to developing local supply chain is through investing in the potential of South Africa’s people; driving win-win partnerships and unlocking innovation, ultimately enabling the country to compete with the global landscape.

Reddy’s approach is using the power of the collective to create meaningful opportunities for local suppliers, generate employment and drive growth and skills development. She believes strongly in cutting-edge innovation within every link of the supply chain and in championing and supporting local suppliers to help them grow their efficiencies.

With over a decade of experience in the supply chain industry, Reddy has played a pivotal role in driving Nando’s local supply chain. This Women's Month, she shares some valuable insights.

Could you describe a typical day in your job?
I start every day with an update on our economy and exchange rate movements along with what’s going on in the other African countries, the Middle East and India.

Since we export products manufactured in South Africa to 16 other countries, it’s imperative to keep abreast of customer satisfaction levels so that our restaurants are not affected. We regularly invite our supply partners to join us for a casual lunch at our beautiful Nando’s Central Kitchen offices where we touch base on supply, quality, new product developments, and the industry in general.

If I am abroad, in one of our Nando’s markets, it’s engaging with local suppliers at one of our restaurants. Then there are continuous engagements with my fellow exco peers on the challenges we are facing and collectively finding ways to overcome them.

I also make time for my team members to pop into my office to run an idea past me or keep me abreast of plans that haven’t come to fruition - an important check-in.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
An architect. Having a dad that was a builder may have had something to do with this. At high school, I was the only girl in my class to do technical drawing and I loved it!

How did you get into the supply chain space?
A contract opportunity in the RCL Foods buying department came my way straight after high school, and I seized the opportunity to gain financial independence. I completed my procurement studies, part-time, and I’ve never looked back!

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What was the best advice anyone ever gave you?
My mother taught me to never give up on my dreams, despite the odds and my dad taught me to always treat people with respect and care.

What advice do you have for the future generation of women wanting to get into the retail/logistics space?
Typically supply chain doesn’t feature in the lists of jobs you’re exposed to in school but is an integral part of any major business. If you’re looking for an integral business role within an organisation, I suggest reaching out to the big brands you admire and asking for an internship or a shadow role to get a feel for how your day-to-day will look.

With international and online trade increasing daily and, faster and slicker supply and demand of goods, innovation in supply chain has become the competitive advantage for many successful businesses.

My family, close friends and work colleagues. Each and every one of them possesses positive attributes that have impacted me in some or other way.