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In the rapidly evolving global trade landscape, industry leaders are intensely discussing the future of supply chains and procurement.
As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges—from geopolitical tensions to technological advancements and environmental concerns—one expert stands out for his insightful perspectives: Dennis Hernandez.
With over a decade of experience in logistics and procurement, Hernandez has become a trusted voice in navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.
“I love the continuous challenge of logistics. There is always something new to learn,” he says.
Hernandez is a renowned senior logistics consultant with expertise in procurement and supply chain. With over a decade of experience in international logistics and strategy, he was previously the logistics supervisor for Suzano in North America.
Hernandez oversees the activities of managing stevedoring, warehousing, transportation, and third-party logistics suppliers. He has implemented an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) setups with multiple third-party suppliers, enhancing automation and customer service levels.
Hernandez is responsible for designing and proposing several Request for Proposal (RFP) documents sent to terminal operators at various states across North America. This is a critical component of Suzano’s operations as it is the contractual basis for establishing operations with the company’s partners.
Hernandez is also committed to sustainability, having designed a carbon emissions measurement methodology for transportation modes, and Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG) standards.
His role includes delivering training sessions to enhance staff skills and ensuring operational continuity.
“There is a constant evolution in this field of work, and learning keeps me motivated and excited about my career. I also love educating others so they can seek and achieve new possibilities and improve their skills. It means we can all grow and enhance not only our own performance but that of the company. And that of course results in a better customer experience.”
Previously, as Logistics Supervisor at Suzano, Hernandez significantly improved logistics efficiency by optimizing entry port configurations and establishing warehousing best practices, leading to substantial time savings and enhanced supplier management.. He also expanded international markets and improved marketing strategies at Blichmann Engineering.
Hernandez holds a Fulbright Scholarship, an MBA from Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management and a Master’s Degree in Finance and Global Business from the Institute of Business Administration and Economics in El Salvador.
He is also certified in Business Strategy from Harvard University and Global Supply Chain Management from the GSCM Institute. Hernandez also recently earned a merit-based membership at a professional organization. I am now a “Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CMILT)
Hernandez says global supply chains are the backbone of international trade, enabling the flow of goods and services across borders.
This presents multiple challenges and means he must be able to communicate with several different companies.
“There is always the need to understand global macro trends,” he reveals. “This requires a comprehensive awareness of events worldwide, not just in North America, where I am based.
“For example, container movements in Asia or trade disruptions in Europe can significantly impact our supply chains. Staying informed about global events, like potential railroad strikes in Canada, allows me to map risks and develop proactive risk management plans. This strategic planning is both challenging and rewarding.”
The global nature of his role means Hernandez also works with multicultural teams, which he loves: “My company employs people from various nationalities, including the Philippines, India, South and Central America, Europe, and more.
“This diversity necessitates cognitive dexterity to navigate different cultural norms and communication styles.”
He adds: “ For instance, when working with German colleagues, I send structured emails with bullet points and color-coded action items.
“In contrast, when dealing with teams in Mexico or Spain, it’s essential to build a personal connection by discussing family or other topics before diving into work-related matters. This cultural adaptability enriches our company’s dynamic and fosters a collaborative environment.”
Maintaining these relationships has been especially important in the last few years, as recent disruptions have exposed vulnerabilities and inefficiencies in traditional supply chain models.
From the COVID-19 pandemic to geopolitical conflicts and climate change, these disruptions have underscored the need for more resilient and adaptable supply chains.
Hernandez, known for his strategic vision and practical expertise, emphasizes that the future of global supply chains hinges on adaptability and innovation: “We are at a pivotal moment,” he says.
“The challenges we face today demand a fundamental rethinking of how we design and manage supply chains. It’s about building efficient but also resilient, and sustainable systems.”
Embracing Technological Advancements
One key driver of change in global supply chains is technology. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionizing how goods are tracked, managed, and delivered. Hernandez highlights the transformative potential of these technologies.
“Throughout my career in logistics, I’ve worked with numerous companies and systems, ranging from those still using manual processes like typewriters to those at the forefront of technology, incorporating AI into their operations,” says Hernandez.
“My goal has always been to bring technology into my work. It is a game-changer for supply chains,” he explains.
“AI and machine learning can optimize inventory management and demand forecasting, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
“Blockchain technology ensures transparency and traceability, which is crucial for maintaining ethical and sustainable practices.”
Hernandez has already implemented a more sophisticated aspect of technology into the systems at Suzano: “I have conducted Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) implementations across various suppliers in the United States,” he reveals.
“EDI allows different systems to communicate seamlessly, reducing manual work and increasing automation. This ensures efficiency and accuracy in data transmission, such as with barcode scanning, which minimizes human error.”
Hernandez says the process has enabled him to gain a key insight; that the best technology isn’t necessarily the newest; it’s the one that works effectively across different parties and systems.
“For example, when working with outdated systems in ports for import and export documentation, it was essential to understand and navigate these systems despite their age,” he reveals.
“The ability to adapt and use technology that is understood and accepted by all parties involved is crucial.”
Hernandez believes as technology evolves, the role of supply chain professionals is also changing: “I think the future lies in creating value and managing supply chains more strategically, rather than being bogged down by manual tasks.
“By understanding and leveraging technology, supply chain professionals can focus on innovation and optimization, driving greater efficiency and effectiveness in operations.”
Hernandez points to several successful implementations of these technologies. For instance, blockchain is being used to track the provenance of raw materials, ensuring that they are sourced responsibly.
“Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the tracking of raw materials by ensuring their provenance and responsible sourcing,” he reveals.
“By providing a transparent and immutable ledger, blockchain allows every step of the supply chain to be recorded and verified, from the origin of raw materials to their final destination.”
This increased visibility helps companies ensure ethical practices, prevent fraud, and maintain regulation compliance.
Hernandez adds: “Consumers can have greater confidence in the products they purchase, knowing they come from responsible sources.”
IoT devices are another sustainable practice providing real-time data on the condition and location of shipments, enabling more proactive and responsive supply chain management.
“These devices enable companies to monitor various parameters such as temperature, humidity, and location throughout the supply chain,” reveals Hernandez.
‘They ensure that products are transported under optimal conditions. This monitoring level helps maintain product quality, reduce waste, and ensure timely deliveries.”
By collecting and analyzing this real-time data, companies can proactively address issues, optimize routes, and improve overall logistics efficiency.
An example is how IoT sensors can alert supply chain managers about potential issues like temperature deviations in perishable goods, allowing for immediate corrective actions to prevent spoilage.
This capability not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports sustainable practices by reducing resource wastage and improving energy efficiency.
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Sustainability has become a critical consideration for modern supply chains. Consumers and stakeholders increasingly demand that companies take responsibility for their environmental and social impacts.
Hernandez strongly advocates integrating sustainability into every aspect of supply chain management.
“Sustainable supply chains are not just about reducing environmental impact; they are about creating value for all stakeholders,” he asserts.
“This means ethical sourcing, reducing carbon footprints, and ensuring fair labor practices. Companies that embrace sustainability will be better positioned to thrive in the long term.”
Hernandez adds: “I believe sustainability will shape the future of our industry, especially those of us involved in emissions-related sectors.
“Keeping abreast of trends and regulations in the sustainability movement is crucial. Understanding how we, as a company and as individuals, can minimize our environmental impact is a significant focus of my work. It’s rewarding to explore ways to optimize our transportation methods to reduce our emissions footprint.”
Hernandez emphasizes the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainability goals: “No single company can do it alone,” he says.
“It requires partnerships across the supply chain—from suppliers to customers and even competitors. We can create more sustainable and resilient supply chains.”
Building Resilient Supply Chains
Resilience is another key theme in Hernandez’s vision for the future of supply chains. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the fragility of global supply networks, with many companies struggling to cope with sudden disruptions.
He says: “The biggest stressor in my work often comes from disruptions that aren’t anticipated. While risk management allows us to foresee and prepare for many issues, there are always external factors that can’t be predicted.
“These unexpected disruptions require immediate attention and quick problem-solving to mitigate their impact on the supply chain.”
Hernandez advocates for building more robust supply chains that can withstand shocks and adapt to changing conditions.
“Resilience is about being prepared for the unexpected,” he says. “This involves diversifying suppliers, investing in local and regional logistic capabilities, and leveraging digital tools to improve visibility and agility.”
Hernandez also highlights the role of scenario planning and risk management in building resilient supply chains.
“Companies need to anticipate potential disruptions and have contingency plans in place,” he says.
“This proactive approach can help mitigate risks and ensure continuity of operations.”
The Human Element in Supply Chains
While technology and innovation are crucial, Hernandez underscores the importance of the human element in supply chain management: “At the end of the day, supply chains are about people,” he says.
“It’s about our relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. Effective communication and collaboration are essential for success.”
Hernandez reveals that negotiation is a significant part of his role in supply chains: “I frequently negotiate with suppliers for logistics procurement. I strive for transparency in these negotiations, ensuring that both parties understand each other’s perspectives and work towards mutually beneficial outcomes.
“Building long-term partnerships based on trust and shared value is crucial. I take pride in creating negotiation results that benefit both my company and our partners. That human element is absolutely essential to secure a positive outcome.”
Hernandez also advocates for investing in talent and developing the skills needed for the future of supply chains: “We need to attract and retain the best talent in the industry. This means providing ongoing training and development opportunities and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.”
Stefan Braren Damato is the Logistics Procurement Manager for Suzano and has worked with Hernandez since 2019.
Image source: Dennis Hernandez/ SuzanoUSA
“Dennis has always been outstanding in his knowledge of logistics,” he reveals.
“For example, in 2019, he was sent to Brazil to budget for the US office. Even our peers in Brazil recognized his importance, noting that he handled almost everything related to US operations. He’s talented, and skilled, and constantly seeks to expand his knowledge and improve himself. He’s also passionate about enhancing our work environment, pushing for sustainability initiatives.”
Damato adds: “He also engages everyone in sustainability discussions, trying to broaden their knowledge and improve our work environment.”
Raymond Medley is the North American Pulp Commercial Manager for Suzano America.
Dennis has implemented numerous creative strategies. During the global shipping crisis, he expanded this strategy to other locations. He has also improved service, optimized costs and developed systems that provide better service and faster deliveries.
“Dennis brings immense value to the people he works with. His knowledge and experience in logistics and procurement can help create better and more sustainable systems and services.”
Matt Janne is Senior Logistics Operations Manager, for Suzano, North America and has worked with Hernandez for just over a year.
He says, “Dennis is extremely detail-oriented and considers all potential implications that might affect our operations and our ability to meet the service level expectations of our customers.”
Revealing Hernandez is the “go-to” person in times of potential or actual crises he adds: “Dennis has substantial experience on the inner workings of knowing the right people to talk to, how to develop plans and put them into action, and how to think of multi-layer contingency plans to keep our customers happy.”
Speaking to Hernandez’s ability to offer support and education to others in the field of procurement, Janne reveals: “He helps younger employees continually develop and improve their understanding of each business unit that they work in.
‘To help with this, Dennis created multiple game-based training scenarios that he presents to our employees to present a difficult situation, and as they work through the exercise, he added additional layers of complexity, such as changes to the scenario, and asked the employees how they would use the resources available to them to work through the problem to reach the desired solution.
“Afterwards, he provided feedback on the areas they performed well in, and what could be considered should the scenario present itself in a real-world application. This training is ongoing with employees and has been a huge help to their learning and development.”
Hernandez says he remains optimistic about the potential of global supply chains to drive positive change: “The challenges we face are significant, but so are the opportunities,” he concludes.
“By embracing technology, prioritizing sustainability, and building resilience, we can create supply chains that are efficient but also ethical and adaptable.”
Dennis Hernandez’s insights provide a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern supply chains.
His emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and resilience reflects a forward-thinking approach essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.
As businesses continue to adapt to changing conditions, the guidance of experts like Hernandez will be crucial in shaping the future of procurement and logistics.
“My experiences have taught me the value of organization, cultural adaptability, and lifelong learning,” he concludes.
“By leveraging these skills, I can effectively manage the complexities of logistics and contribute to the success of my team and company. As the world faces new challenges and opportunities, staying informed, organized, and adaptable will remain key to thriving in this dynamic field.”
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