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The Value of Reflection

Author(s):

Sidney Johnson, CPSM

November 2012, Inside Supply Management^® Vol. 23, No. 9, page 6

Executive Access to the Chair
Taking time to reflect on the past can provide supply management professionals with lessons to build a better future.

A wise friend once told me reflection is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves; to me, that means taking a moment to think about the past in hopes of brightening the future. Times of change are often a great impetus for such examination. The passing of the mantle of Chair of the ISM Board is that kind of moment for me.

I am proud of what the organization has accomplished over the last two years. The team executed its plans to broaden ISM's reach and improve the offerings of the Institute. In addition to relentless efforts at continuous improvement, there have been game changers: We have completed our acquisition of ADR North America. This acquisition helps complete the offerings of ISM, which exists to "lead and serve the supply management profession." Our ability to aid both companies and individuals in their pursuit of supply chain excellence is as good as it gets. We can be proud of what our organization offers.

We have also broadened our reach by offering the new ISM Corporate Program, which allows membership opportunities for many individuals within a company. Through the Corporate Program, we have made access to our organization and its information available to many more people. In return, we receive significantly more exposure to the knowledge, information and developments generated by our community. Casting a wider net changes scope and influence; it helps us understand the past and manage the future. On reflection, these were two of the things that were high on the agenda when I started this journey as Board Chair.

Another major change has been the departure of Paul Novak, CPSM, C.P.M., MCIPS. Novak's decision to retire left us with a great hole to fill. As CEO since 1997, he led the organization in a major change in governance and the implementation of a leadership-based Board of Directors. He also broadened our focus from purchasing to supply management. He provided 15 years of masterful leadership, which has extended ISM's global reach.

We are confident that Thomas Derry, our new CEO, will continue the great work Novak has done in guiding the world's leading supply management association. Derry is focused on "continuing to build the strategic role the profession plays in our increasingly interconnected global economy." If there were any doubts about that role, the past several years have laid those to rest. Change keeps an organization dynamic, and reflection helps harness that dynamism.

Is there more I could have done? Probably so. However, the pursuit of perfection is a chase we should glory in for itself. Enjoy the successes, and let any shortcomings be inspiration for the future.

The time I have spent as ISM Board Chair has been priceless to me. The learning, the friendships and the team's work will be something I carry with me. My hope is that my contribution to the organization has been of value. My wish is for your continued success. And, of course, I will be watching.