The consumer-packaged goods (CPG) business is an entangled mix of functions involving procurement, planning, manufacturing, and movement. Experts are tasked with aligning the functions in a way where free flow of products happens from suppliers to end consumers. As the business grows, digitalization and automation need to be applied to compete effectively and streamline processes. Conagra Brands’ Vice President of Customer Supply Chain and Logistics, Deirdre Elter, comes with almost three decades of innovation-driven experience while creating an open company culture throughout the CPG supply chain.
Deirdre Elter has held various roles during her career, moving from procurement to planning, production, logistics, and even advertising. All these have given her an understanding of business leadership from a broad perspective. Possibly one of the most important crossroads in her career was when she entered into an operations leadership role, exposing her to deep insights into the world of production. She credits her mentors, especially women, who advised her on her career path to the leadership role. At Conagra Brands, Deirdre embodies diversity and inclusion at the leadership level. She is co-founder of the Women in Supply Chain Employee Resource Group, with more than 250 members. She is also a strong proponent of building relationships with third-party logistics providers, carriers, and customers as key elements of success. Deirdre also emphasizes that how automation and other new technologies, such as Conagra’s Connected Shop Floor program, can optimize supply chains.
She stresses Conagra’s supply chain operations to be energy-efficient in use through to water stewardship. Deirdre’s leadership also involves the development of internal cooperation and empowering her employees. Conagra’s digitization is clear, focusing on data-driven decision-making as well as risk mitigation. Even with further supply chain management development, Deirdre still focuses on innovation as well as providing safe and healthy products to the consumer.
Recognized by Chief Women Leaders as one of the Top 10 Influential Women Driving Supply Chain Excellence in 2024, Deirdre Elter’s extensive experience and leadership in the supply chain industry, particularly within the consumer-packaged goods sector, have made her a pivotal force at Conagra Brands.
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