Episode
Episode 163: Supply Chain Logistics with Westernacher's Rafael Avila
- Podcast
- The Future of Supply Chain
- Published
- Jun 8, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1614
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
Today, we speak with Rafael Avila, who discusses how AI-powered logistics improves visibility, reduces emissions, and helps companies balance cost, service, and sustainability in transportation planning. Download the episode transcript ===== In this episode, Rafael Avila of Westernacher joins us to discuss the future of logistics. He explains how AI can make emissions visible earlier, improve mode and carrier decisions, reduce waste, and support better service. The conversation also explores workforce shifts and the importance of end-to-end supply chain visibility. ===== Guest: Rafael Avila, Supply Chain and Logistics leader, Westernacher Consulting Rafael Avila is a Supply Chain and Logistics leader specializing in SAP Transportation Management and end-to-end supply chain transformation at Westernacher Consulting. With over a decade of experience, he has worked across global organizations to design and deliver solutions that improve transportation planning, execution, and visibility across complex networks. A former IBM consulting leader, Rafael spent years supporting large-scale S/4HANA programs and shaping supply chain strategies across industries including consumer products, pharmaceuticals, automotive, and mining. His work has focused on helping organizations connect transportation with warehousing, trade, and order management to unlock more integrated and resilient supply chains. Today, Rafael continues to work closely with clients on modern logistics challenges, with a strong focus on simplifying complex topics, driving practical outcomes, and exploring how technologies like AI are reshaping transportation and supply chain decision-making. Host 1: Richard Howells Richard Howells has been working in the Supply Chain Managem…