agribusinessreview.comFEBRUARY 20268 opinionIN MYOvercoming Supply Chain Disruptions and Building Resilient Supplier RelationshipsThe past few years have provided invaluable lessons in managing unforeseen disruptions--from geopolitical tensions and trade wars to natural disasters and, of course, the pandemic. Early on, we established a clear purpose: "adding value to the business through sustainable relationships." This guiding principle drives us to increase efficiency, reduce risk and environmental impact, enhance profitability, develop people, and accelerate innovation.At the core of this strategy is relationship-building. Developing strong partnerships with suppliers proved essential in managing market volatility and ensuring business continuity. We began by conducting risk analyses for each strategic category, identifying key suppliers that required a more tailored, collaborative approach. Instead of focusing solely on price, we engaged in value-based discussions--understanding suppliers' needs, helping ease their operations, and working together to grow the pie rather than divide it. As a result, we maintained a supplier fill rate above 97 percent before, during, and after the pandemic.DRIVING PROCUREMENT EXCELLENCE IN THE FOOD INDUSTRYBy Javier Carnevali, Chief Procurement Officer, Grupo HerdezJavier CarnevaliWhile savings may fluctuate year to year, our consistent use of market intelligence ensures we are always ready to capture new opportunities.Javier Carnevali is the Chief Procurement Officer at Grupo Herdez, where he leads a team of over 70 professionals managing the complete source-to-pay process across raw materials, packaging, co-packers, CAPEX, indirect spend, and services. His journey in sourcing and procurement began in 2005 at a strategic sourcing consulting firm in Caracas, Venezuela, where he helped clients achieve cost savings through a high-stakes "no savings, no fee" model. He later transferred to the firm's Mexico office before joining Grupo Herdez as Deputy Director during a pivotal transformation of the company's supply chain. Within two years, he was promoted to head both Strategic Sourcing and Procurement, ultimately shaping and leading a value-driven, innovation-focused procurement function within one of Mexico's leading food companies.
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