RLC Foundation 2019 Launch Event – Yodel – 28 February 2019

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RLC Foundation 2019 Launch Event Hosted by Yodal – 28th February 2019

On 28 February the RLC held its 2019 launch event at Waltham Cross, London. The event was generously hosted and sponsored by Yodel. The RLC Foundation theme for 2019 is “Demand forecasting, planning and risk management in logistics; from the commercial and military perspective”. The event focussed in one the use of data to manage risk and how we can use people to mitigate and manage risk with the demand forecast.

The event was opened by the RLC Foundation Chairman, Maj Gen (Retired) David Shouesmith who spoke about the aims of the Foundation and the need to foster strong relationships with industry to develop future military solutions.

Andy Mewes, Yodel Business Management Director, gave a fascinating insight into the integrated Planning and Development approach by Yodel to use data when identifying risk within its business model. He emphasised the need of accurate planning and accurate data otherwise the risk doesn’t matter because it has not been properly assessed. Yodel are in the process of internal structural review and have now established a direct linkage with their commercial and operational business which aids future demand forecasting. Yodel are further developing an incentivised Rewards and Recognition scheme to encourage all employees to embrace behavioural and cultural changes which will impact directly on company outputs.

Colonel Ian Skipper, Assistant Head of Operations, Defence Supply Chain Operations and Movements centre gave an overview of how the military co-ordinates defence supply on operations and on exercise by army, navy air force and commercial assets. When forecasting or planning demand to support operations or exercises comprehensive risk assessment is required to address future sustainment and the commanders future intent amongst a whole host of other considerations. This risk assessment is also a vital tool when recovering our armed forces back to the UK after a particular operation or deployment.

There followed a lively syndicate presentation debate which brought out interesting analysis of market challenges which affect the commercial sector and the armed forces.

At the end of the day people are our most precious commodity; if they are trained properly they can interpret data correctly, which directly impacts accurate demand forecasting and subsequent overarching risk management. Look after the people, the people look after the business!

This was an excellent event. Thank you Team Yodel!

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