43: Supply Chain in a VUCA World: Priscilla Burke on Risk, Resilience, and Relationships

She Supply Chains Podcast
Sep 8
2 min read

Updated: Oct 6

How do you build a supply chain that not only survives disruption but thrives because of it?

In this episode, we sit down with Priscilla Burke, a seasoned supply chain leader whose career journey spans continents, industries, and disciplines. From her roots in Barbados to a career shaping risk management and resilience in global supply chains, Priscilla brings a perspective grounded in both engineering rigor and human-centered leadership. She reflects on how early co-op experiences shaped her career path, teaching her the importance of exploring different roles and staying open to change. Her own transition from engineering to supply chain was one of those pivotal pivots—proof that resilience begins with the willingness to adapt.

Priscilla dives deep into the critical role of risk management in supply chain resilience. She explains how proactive monitoring of suppliers, coupled with agile planning, helps organizations prepare for the unexpected before it becomes a crisis. Her practical insights make clear that resilience is not about eliminating risk—it’s about building the muscle to respond quickly and effectively. She also shares her thoughts on the growing importance of integrating ESG principles into supply chain strategy, reminding us that long-term sustainability and ethical practices are inseparable from operational excellence.

Beyond risk and resilience, Priscilla addresses the real-world challenges of software implementation in supply chains. From aligning stakeholders to overcoming resistance to change, she doesn’t shy away from the complexities but frames them as opportunities to strengthen culture and collaboration. Her concept of “Broadcast Impact”—the ripple effect of strong, clear communication across teams and suppliers—shows how a culture of alignment can unlock smarter decision-making and measurable results.

Throughout the conversation, Priscilla also speaks candidly about leadership, mentorship, and the evolving respect for supply chain professionals in the industry. For women in supply chain especially, she offers advice rooted in her own experience: be willing to pivot, build networks of trusted advisors, and lead with both courage and curiosity. Her story is a reminder that careers are rarely linear, but with resilience and purpose, every step prepares you for the next.

In this episode, we discuss:

(03:45) Transition from Engineering to Supply Chain
(05:50) Building Business Resilience through Risk Management
(11:02) Mitigating Risks and Monitoring Suppliers
(15:17) Integrating ESG Principles into Supply Chain Practices
(19:17) Challenges in Software Implementation
(22:41) Broadcast Impact and Supply Chain Optimization
(25:13) Cohesive Culture for Effective Decision Making
(28:53) Evolving Career Paths in Supply Chain
(31:04) Advice for Women in Supply Chain
(33:11) Measuring Success in Process-Oriented Roles

✨ This episode is packed with insights on resilience, leadership, and navigating the ever-changing supply chain landscape. Whether you’re early in your career or leading global operations, Priscilla’s perspective will leave you inspired to think bigger, adapt faster, and lead with intention.

Click here to listen!