In a time when supply chains are more complex and less predictable than ever, AI offers a real opportunity to move beyond spreadsheets and firefighting. In this session, Richard Lebovitz, Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of LeanDNA, will demystify AI for supply chain and manufacturing leaders. He’ll explore how AI and prescriptive analytics are being applied today to reduce shortages, optimize inventory, and drive more confident decision-making. Drawing on real-world examples from global manufacturers, Richard will highlight specific use cases that show how AI is creating measurable improvements in supply chain execution — from automating procurement actions to identifying and mitigating supplier risk. Attendees will leave with a practical framework for thinking about AI and how to begin leveraging it in their own operations.

Presenter: Richard Lebovitz is the Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of LeanDNA, the intelligent supply chain execution platform that uses AI and advanced analytics to help manufacturers reduce shortages, optimize inventory, and improve delivery performance. With more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing, supply chain, and lean strategy, Richard has worked with companies around the world to transform complex global operations.

Prior to founding LeanDNA, he launched Factory Logic, a pioneer in lean manufacturing software acquired by SAP, where he led the development of solutions based on the Toyota Production System. His work has earned numerous industry accolades, including the Shingo Prize for Manufacturing Excellence and Supply & Demand Chain Executive’s Pro to Know of the Year.

Richard serves on the board of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence (AME) and contributes thought leadership to publications such as Forbes Technology Council, Supply Chain Brain, and Manufacturing Today.