Ep. 3 - Tariffs, Chaos, and Tactical Supply Chains - Chris Clowes

In this episode of Chain Reaction, host Michael Ostroumov sits down with Chris Clowes, COO of FLOX, to tackle one of the most volatile moments in global logistics. With the recent 90-day pause on US tariff hikes, logistics leaders are scrambling to make critical supply chain decisions in an already crisis-ridden environment.Chris unpacks how businesses are shifting from strategy to survival, reacting tactically to stockpile inventory before potential tariff spikes. The conversation explores the domino effects of US import behaviors on global markets - especially Europe - and the mounting operational stress on logistics professionals. They also discuss the limits of enterprise systems and AI in today’s chaotic climate, the breakdown of traditional decision-making processes, and the opportunity hidden in supply chain adversity.Guest BioChris Clowes is the COO of FLOX, a next-generation logistics and supply chain technology firm built to bring agility and transparency to an increasingly chaotic industry. With two decades of experience, Chris has witnessed firsthand the seismic shifts affecting global trade - from Brexit and COVID-19 to inflation shocks and geopolitical disruption.He’s a vocal advocate for modernizing supply chain operations and an expert in balancing tactical responsiveness with strategic foresight. At FLOX, Chris leads efforts to reimagine how companies navigate complexity, leverage technology, and maintain resilience in the face of relentless volatility.TakeawaysThe 90-day tariff pause is driving a scramble to import goods before potential cost spikes.Supply chain leaders are operating more like traders, relying on instinct over systems.Traditional ERP tools are too rigid for today's rapid disruptions.AI offers support but can’t replace human judgment in high-stakes, fast-moving logistics decisions.Strategic planning is being deprioritized in favor of short-term, defensive actions.Chapters00:00 Intro & Tariff Pause Fallout 03:15 Cost Pressures & Freight Challenges 06:13 Shifting Global Trade Dynamics 08:08 Why ERP Systems Are Failing Logistics 12:13 AI’s Limits and the Importance of Trust 15:16 Strategic Blind Spots Amid Crisis 18:22 Risk vs. Opportunity in Supply Chains 20:52 Wrap-Up & Closing ThoughtsFollow Chris Clowes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠Follow Michael Ostroumov on LinkedIn