Supply Chain Essentials examines the core components driving modern supply chain management, from sourcing and procurement to logistics and distribution. Gain insights into optimizing operations and building resilient supply chains tailored for startup growth. Emerging technologies and data analytics are highlighted, with a focus on sustainability and agile risk management strategies. Designed for startups, this program equips teams with essential tools to drive efficiency and adaptability as they scale their supply chains.
This course is part of our 2025 Subscription Program.
COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
Starts: May 21st
Length: 5 Weeks
Type: Self-paced + Live Office Hours
Office Hours: Wednesday from 1 to 2:30pm ET
Offered: Once a year
Course FEATURES
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This course provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, combining pre-recorded sessions, expert presentations, thought-provoking case studies, and interactive group discussions. Designed to deliver practical insights and actionable strategies, this immersive program equips you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate complex challenges and propel you toward success.
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This course emphasizes the power of peer learning through collaborative, small-group sessions. By engaging with fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders, you’ll exchange insights, tackle challenges, and refine strategies in real time. These peer group discussions foster diverse perspectives, offering fresh ideas and practical solutions to complex problems. This collaborative approach not only deepens your understanding but also builds a supportive network of like-minded professionals to help you succeed long after the program concludes.
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This course features expert guest instructors who bring real-world experience and deep industry insights to the table. By learning directly from accomplished professionals, you’ll gain valuable perspectives on navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and achieving success. These sessions provide a unique chance to hear practical advice, ask questions, and connect with leaders who have excelled in their fields. This access to expertise not only enhances your knowledge but also inspires new strategies to apply in your own journey.
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As part of this course you’ll gain exclusive access to a dedicated learning portal, where all course materials, insights, and resources will be available for 30 days after the program concludes. This extended access allows you to revisit key learnings, dive deeper into the content, and apply what you've learned at your own pace. It’s an invaluable tool to reinforce your knowledge and ensure you maximize the impact of the course on your journey.
key topics
SUPPLY CHAIN FUNDAMENTALS
Supply Chain as a source of competitive advantage (definitions, metrics, best practices). Understanding the key differences between product and services Supply Chains.
MINIMIZING RISK AND DISTRUPTION
How to best build resilience and agility in your Supply Chain. Scalability as a source of profitable growth.
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
How to embed an ESG strategy in your start-up. General landscape for regulation and hot to adapt
TECH & DATA FOR SMART DECISIONS
The importance of Data and how to manage it. Selecting technologies to drive decisions and scale your business.
Who should TAKE THIS COURSE
ENTREPRENeurS & FOUNDERS
Why: To understand the fundamentals of supply chain management and build efficient systems that support business growth and scalability.
OPERATIONS & LOGISTICS MANAGERS
Why: To optimize workflows, reduce costs, and improve supply chain performance to meet customer demands effectively.
SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Why: To streamline inventory, enhance supplier relationships, and implement best practices for managing resources efficiently.
This course is included in the subscription program.
price
HarvardAE Members $299
Non Members $399
Does not include transaction fees. No refunds.
INSTRUCTORS
BLAKE LERNER holds a Bachelor’s in Systems and Industrial Engineering from Montana State University and a Master’s in Supply Chain Transportation and Logistics from the University of Washington. With 13+ years of experience in aerospace, supply chain, logistics, and manufacturing, he has excelled in supplier management, process improvements, and program management at Boeing. Now a Supply Base Manager, Blake leads a global team, driving quality, delivery, and cost efficiency through a systematic, customer-focused approach.
Module: Supply Chain Essentials
VICTORIA COBOS is a supply chain leader with experience at Unilever, Nomad Foods, General Mills, and Deckers Brands. She specializes in network design, end-to-end planning, Six Sigma, procurement, and innovation across global markets. A Venezuelan-Spaniard, she holds a Production Engineering degree from Simón Bolívar University, an Executive MBA from Oxford, and a Six Sigma Green Belt. Based in London, Victoria is recognized for driving value through agility and resilience in VUCA environments.
Modules: Minimizing Risk & Disruption; Sustainable Practices
JOSEPH FALVELLA is the VP of Program Management at LAB67, a global product design and strategic sourcing firm, and the CEO of Desoto Consulting, a management and strategy firm in Japan. Joseph has degrees in business and engineering from MIT and UVA, and 20+ years of experience and expertise in strategy and operations, finance, supply chain, and helping companies scale while reducing risk and realizing maximum profitability. Originally based in the USA, with the past decade covering the APAC region including Singapore, Vietnam, and Japan.
Module: Tech & Data for Smart Decisions
DAVID MCCALIB is the CEO and founder of LAB67, a global product design and sourcing firm, and LAB0, a stealth robotics company in the Pacific Northwest. With expertise in advanced manufacturing and product development for companies like Intel and Amazon, he holds 20+ patents. A thought leader in automation, he speaks at events like RoboBusiness and MIT conferences. David is also an executive producer of feature films and adviser to Bunafr Coffee in Seattle.