Read about the people who make SCA: Matthew Venner

Our Engagement Managers are the lynchpin between our company and our valued clients.

We spoke to one of our Engagement Managers, Matthew Venner, who has been with Supply Chain Alliance (SCA) for over a year about his interests in Supply Chain and his professional journey at SCA. Matt’s role as an Engagement Manager involves guiding projects to fruition and ensuring successful client delivery and satisfaction.

Can you share what inspired you to pursue a career in supply chain?

My initial fascination with pursuing a career in supply chain management started during one of my first university lectures. In this particular lecture, the professor delved into the role of logistics during World War II, illustrating how strategic decisions regarding the distribution of vital resources influenced the war's outcome. I’m a big history buff, so this was probably the first catalyst for me into a career in supply chain.

What is the most unique part about working at SCA?

I moved over from the 3PL distribution sector over a year ago after working with several big brands in the Canadian market and managing their distribution within the country. Moving to the consulting side of the business at SCA has allowed me to work with even more tier-one companies and brands to support them in their supply chain journey and evolution. It’s incredibly fulfilling to support companies with the knowledge and experience I’ve been able to garner through my career thus far.

What are your thoughts on the future of our industry?

I believe COVID-19 and other major global geo-political events have brought to the forefront the importance of building robust, resilient and sustainable supply chains. Even events as minor as the Suez Canal blockage sent ripple effects through the supply chain for many companies.

I believe that in the future, companies will focus on diversifying sourcing, nearshoring, or reshoring production, to manage and mitigate risk to ensure a resilient supply chain.

What advice would you provide to young people thinking about a career in supply chain?

Supply chain can be an incredibly dynamic career path. It has an impact on almost everyday life, and that in itself is a rewarding aspect of the work we do.

For people thinking about getting into supply chain, the field continues to grow at a rapid rate, with significant opportunities across a gamut of industries and businesses. Companies are investing in supply chain strategies and capabilities as a point of differentiation in the market, and as such, people with experience in the industry can expect to have a plethora of opportunities to have an exciting and rewarding career.

What are some of your interests outside of work?

My wife and I have a very active life outside of our busy work schedules. We spend a lot of our time outdoors enjoying our hobbies together. During winters, we’re often up in Collingwood skiing on the weekends, either cross-country or downhill depending on the weather. In the summer, we enjoy tennis and golf together. I’m quite active in the tennis community in Toronto following my background in junior tennis. I also recently picked up a squash racquet... unfortunately, my tennis skills are not as transferrable as one might think!