2: Breaking Down Silos: The Art of Integrated Business Planning with Sabrina Carr

Sabrina Carr, the Director of Integrated Business Planning at the Clorox Company, is a powerful example of how determination and resilience can pave the way for a successful career in supply chain management. Hailing from the US Virgin Islands, Sabrina has journeyed from a background in chemical engineering to a leadership role where she emphasizes the importance of a cost-conscious mindset and effective communication. Her insights into integrated business planning and her commitment to diversity and inclusion highlight the critical skills and values that are essential in today’s dynamic supply chain landscape.

From the Islands to Integrated Business Planning

Growing up in the beautiful US Virgin Islands, Sabrina developed a unique perspective and a spirit of resilience that have propelled her throughout her career. With a love for sports and teamwork, she made a significant transition from chemical engineering to supply chain management. This pivotal shift marked the beginning of her commitment to building a cost-conscious mindset, which she argues is vital for effective integrated business planning (IBP).

Sabrina highlights that successful IBP involves anticipating and forecasting sales while considering potential risks and opportunities.

It’s about making strategic trade-offs to meet business goals effectively. “Speaking the language of different functions,” she notes, is crucial for driving alignment and ensuring that all parts of the organization work cohesively towards a common objective.

Bridging Gaps: The Role of Communication and Storytelling

In her experience, effective communication and storytelling are essential to bridging gaps and engaging business partners within the supply chain. By conveying information compellingly and clearly, Sabrina has been able to foster collaborations that yield innovative solutions. This skill is especially relevant in the face of diverse teams, where cultural commitment and a focus on diversity and inclusion are key to successful IBP implementation.

Sabrina's dedication to diversity and inclusion extends to her involvement in leading employee resource groups (ERGs) at Clorox. These groups not only create a meaningful work environment but also allow participants to develop valuable skills, gain visibility, and build important connections. “Joining and leading ERGs can provide invaluable experience that enhances your professional journey,” she emphasizes.

Embracing the Journey: Tips for Aspiring Supply Chain Professionals

For those who aspire to build a career in supply chain, Sabrina’s advice is to jump into different areas within the field. This exploration will broaden your understanding and make you a more valuable asset. She emphasizes the importance of being data-driven, strategy-led, and principle-based to achieve success in planning and logistics.

As part of her personal mantra, Sabrina encourages aspiring professionals to embrace bravery and take risks.

“Ask for forgiveness rather than permission,” she advises, sharing how this mindset has led to her own personal and professional growth.

Taking bold steps in your career—whether through innovative ideas or leadership opportunities—can yield transformative results.

Empowering the Next Generation

Sabrina Carr’s journey in supply chain exemplifies the power of passion, collaboration, and resilience. By embracing a cost-conscious mindset, engaging in integrated business planning, and championing diversity and inclusion, she continues to pave the way for future generations of women in supply chain. Let her story inspire you to embrace challenges, foster collaboration, and take bold steps in your own career.

Tune in to Episode 2 to hear more about Sabrina's experiences and insights. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this empowering journey with others aspiring to make their mark in the supply chain industry!

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Keywords: supply chain, integrated business planning, cost-conscious mindset, collaboration, storytelling, diversity and inclusion, employee resource groups, work environment, leadership, career development, planning, logistics, data-driven, strategy-led, principle-based, bravery, risk-taking.

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