Transformative Technologies in Operations and Supply Chain Management

Abstract

This seminar will delve into cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of operations and supply chain management, focusing on Industry 4.0 technologies, Artificial Intelligence, and Blockchain. These transformative technologies, while deeply connected to traditional strategies, are emerging as game changers for managing processes, capabilities, and goals within the supply chain and operations space.

Dr. Ciano will share findings from her research, drawing on multiple case studies, literature reviews, and Delphi studies conducted with industry practitioners. Her presentation will cover key topics, including the relationship between Industry 4.0 and Lean Manufacturing, the integration of Artificial Intelligence with Lean practices, the role of Artificial Intelligence within the supply chain processes and in enhancing digital capabilities, and the challenges faced when adopting Blockchain in the pharmaceutical sector.

She will also present open questions and research directions, particularly around using these technologies to achieve net-zero and Industry 5.0 goals in operations and supply chain management.  Rather than focusing on a single project or study, Dr. Ciano’s talk will connect overarching themes and explore how these technologies are reshaping the field. 

The seminar will foster a collaborative, interactive environment and encourage discussions that may lead to future collaborations among attendees.

About the Speaker

Dr. Maria Pia Ciano is an Assistant Professor of Operations Management at the Nottingham University Business School and Departmental Research Director and Research Series Coordinator for the Operations Management and Information Systems department.  

Dr. Ciano is actively involved in both teaching and research. Her research expertise spans Lean Manufacturing, Industry 4.0 and 5.0, Artificial intelligence-driven supply chains, andsupply chain decarbonisation. She has contributed to several impactful academic and industrial initiatives, including internationally recognised workshops and collaborative research projects. She serves as the module convenor for several undergraduate courses, including Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and supervises both Master's and PhD students.

Beyond academia, Dr. Ciano has collaborated on industrial and consulting projects focused on Lean, continuous improvement, digital transformation and smart manufacturing. 

She has extensive international experience, having collaborated with esteemed institutions such as LIUC Carlo Cattaneo University, Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering, Politecnico di Milano, Free University of Bozen, and the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) Mexico.