Vice-President Value Chain, J&J Consumer EMEA

During the economic crisis it became obvious that companies need to maintain and build top line growth in order to survive. Declining sales cannot typically not be compensated for long through cost reduction initiatives. While Supply Chain has historically focused on its mission as a support function, ensuring service level and cost containment, it is in fact perfectly suited to play a vital role in a company's pursuit for growth.

· Shifting paradigms: from bottom and service level focus to holistic business contribution and partnering.

· Supply chain excellence as strategic company differentiator to delight customers.

· Enabling growth through sourcing in external innovation (product or service).

· Driving growth into new territory via extended distribution models.

· New skills and new metrics required to support broader and more strategic supply chain role.