525: Activate Your Supply Chain's Data, with Google Cloud

Paula Natoli of Google Cloud talks about 2026 supply chain challenges & opportunities; AI & data; and what teams can do now to build a better tomorrow.     IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: [04.20] An introduction to Paula and her decades-long supply chain career. [06.15] The single biggest mindset shift supply chain leaders need to make this year to stay ahead of the curve. "2026 is going to be a pivot point... Decades ago our brains, as supply chain professionals, were wired to solve for least cost… But now it's not just a cost center mentality… It's a mindset shift that has exploded into a new foundational element that gets away from traditional siloed thinking, and moves us into a value creation model." [10.39] Why organizations need to move past a focus on resilience, the next frontier for competitive advantage, and how Google Cloud is guiding leaders to think beyond just surviving disruptions. "The move from just efficiency to overall agility becomes key." [13.42] Why companies are still struggling to turn data into action, and how Google Cloud helps bridge the gap. "We're not short of data! We're capturing and storing data at crazy amounts but, as organizations, we still haven't fully unlocked the value associated with that." [17.18] The role of technology, particularly AI and data, in helping companies meet aggressive sustainability goals, and why achieving a unified data platform is critical. [20.52] Why powering its own global supply chain is a big advantage for Google, and how it informs customer conversations around making their operations more resilient, efficient, and sustainable. "It establishes a level of proven solutions and credibility." [23.31] The multi-layered approach that sets Google Cloud apart and makes them the ideal partner for companies dealing with immense complexity. "It's the full stack that allows us to work with customers wherever they are on their AI journey." [27.21] How Google Cloud is making powerful AI and analytics tools accessible to the everyday supply chain planner or logistics operator. "It's really being democratized. This AI is being injected into the tools and technologies that supply chain professionals and frontline workers are using every day." [30.26] Beyond faster insights, how Agentic AI is fundamentally changing how supply chain teams interact with their data and systems. "We're moving from a passive level to actually executing things… Don't just tell me what my options are. Find the right option, and execute it." [34.05] As AI takes on more of the analytical heavy lifting, how the role of the human supply chain professional is going to evolve, and the new skills that will be most valuable in 2026 and beyond. [36.07] Paula's one piece of advice for C-Suite Leaders and Chief Supply Chain Officers who want to build a truly AI-driven, future-ready supply chain. [39.54] The combination of emerging technologies that will have the biggest impact on supply chains in the next five years. [41.09] The one thing every supply chain professional needs to do differently today to start building a better supply chain.   RESOURCES AND LINKS MENTIONED:   Head over to Google Cloud's website now to find out more and discover how they could help you too. You can also connect with Google Cloud and keep up to date with the latest over on LinkedIn, X (Twitter) or YouTube, or you can connect with Paula on LinkedIn. If you want to hear more from Google, check out 507: Logistics Providers: Ready For An AI-First Approach? Then Discover Your Biggest Opportunity, with Google Cloud. Check out our other podcasts HERE.