OPEX takes center stage at US Army Reserve workshop

The latest news and developments in operational excellence (OPEX) including partnerships, appointments and industry collaborations. 

This week features:

• OPEX in the spotlight at US Army Reserve workshop
• University of Johannesburg achieves OPEX with Project Portfolio Office
• Pricefx appoints new executive leaders to spearhead OPEX and growth
• ASPI honors Domtar’s Bill Edwards with excellence in leadership award

OPEX in the spotlight at US Army Reserve workshop

The 311^th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC) hosted its annual G4 Logistics Readiness Workshop at the George W. Dunaway Army Reserve Center in Sloan, Nevada. The event gathered logistics professionals from across the command to improve OPEX and streamline supply chain management. The 311^th ESC commands and controls units, elements and activities to provide operational and tactical level combat service support to US forces.

The workshop, led by chief warrant officer 3 (CW3) Christopher Pugh and Ms. Leticia Mendez of the G4 team, focused on addressing key logistics challenges and providing practical solutions. Participants engaged in scenario-based training and hands-on exercises, sharing innovative strategies and best practices to enhance mission readiness.

“We continue to refine our logistics processes to stay ahead of the challenges we face,” said CW3 Pugh. “This event provided a critical opportunity to strengthen our teams and improve our readiness.”

In closing remarks, Brig. Gen. Earl Sparks, commanding general, said: “The knowledge shared here will lay the foundation for greater success in our future operations.”

Read how process mining and automation are reshaping defense and industry

University of Johannesburg achieves OPEX with Project Portfolio Office

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) successfully unified project management practices across six key departments in its ongoing pursuit of OPEX and global recognition. The implementation of Project Portfolio Office’s project portfolio management solution, PPO, has provided the university with enhanced project visibility, governance and alignment with its broader strategic goals under its ‘OnePMO’ initiative.

UJ’s journey toward a unified project management approach began with the vision of Dr Mpoti Ralephata, chief operating officer (COO), who sought to standardize project management practices across his domain within the university. The ‘OnePMO’ approach and implementation of PPO have empowered UJ to align its projects with the university’s broader strategic objectives. By unifying project reporting and creating consistent data, the university can now make informed decisions and track progress toward its goals.

This alignment has been particularly impactful in the information communication systems (ICS) department. Dr Chelma Sliep, director of infrastructure and operations for the ICS department, highlighted the benefits: “PPO has transformed the way we manage IT-centric projects. It provides the governance and structure needed to ensure that our infrastructure supports UJ’s vision effectively.”

Watch Pradheep Kileti, director at National Grid, discuss balancing operations with innovation

Pricefx appoints new executive leaders to spearhead OPEX and growth

Pricefx, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) powered pricing software, announced the appointment of two new executive leaders to accelerate the company’s growth trajectory and track record of OPEX. The appointments of Gary Sher as chief financial officer (CFO) and Lindsay Sanchez as chief marketing officer (CMO) follow an exceptionally strong 2024 in which Pricefx grew subscription revenue 38 percent year-over-year and secured an impressive retention rate of over 97 percent, according to a press release. 

Sher will lead the company’s finance and data functions, focusing on delivering OPEX, driving financial discipline and supporting Pricefx’s growth plans. Sanchez will focus on elevating Pricefx’s global marketing strategy, increasing brand awareness and scaling marketing efforts with the company’s growth objectives.

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ASPI honors Domtar’s Bill Edwards with excellence in leadership award

Bill Edwards, SVP of paper and packaging operations at Domtar, a North American pulp and paper company, received the prestigious Excellence in Leadership Award from the Association of Suppliers to the Paper Industry (ASPI). The ASPI Excellence in Leadership Award is presented annually to an industry leader who demonstrates exceptional management skills, strategic vision and a commitment to advancing the pulp and paper sector. 

“I am truly honored to receive this award and grateful to be part of an industry that plays such a vital role in everyday life,” said Edwards says. “At Domtar, we are committed to producing essential paper, packaging and pulp products that people rely on daily.”

With more than three decades of industry experience, Edwards has championed initiatives that advance OPEX, product quality and innovation. His leadership has contributed to sustainable growth and strengthened partnerships for Domtar, while earning respect from peers and industry stakeholders.

“Bill’s dedication to guiding operational performance and fostering collaborative relationships has made a lasting impact on both Domtar and the broader industry,” added Steve Henry, president of paper and packaging at Domtar. “This recognition reflects his commitment to our core values of caring, accountability, collaboration and entrepreneurship.”

Watch Susan Jarrell Kushnir, VP, head of investment bank talent development at Deutsche Bank, discuss how leaders can help teams navigate transformation

READ MORE OPEX NEWS

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