Alumni Success Story: Jesús Ríos, ZLOGb Alumni 2023 and Strategic Sourcing Manager at Microsoft. See Linkedin.
The ZLOGb program offers a unique combination. You’ll gain access to the prestigious MIT network and immerse yourself in the beautiful country of Spain. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with supply chain leaders from Fortune 500 companies and visit operations in a different country.
Could you share a bit about your background and how you ended up pursuing the blended program at the MIT Zaragoza Master of Engineering in Logistics and Supply Chain Management?
My initial exposure to the program occurred through edX, where I actively participated in business-related courses alongside modules focused on optics and network infrastructure. Drawing from my background in sourcing, I intentionally sought out courses that could enhance my supply chain skills. This pursuit culminated in my completion of the MicroMaster certificate—an achievement that solidified my resolve to pursue the full master’s degree at the MIT Zaragoza Logistics Center. From the very outset of the program in Cambridge, I immersed myself in real-world logistics challenges, engaging in spirited debates on supply chain strategies. Throughout this journey, I benefited from the rich blend of academic rigor and industry insights shared by my peers from ZLC and other MIT SCALE campuses.
How did the ZLOGb program shape your understanding of supply chain dynamics and global logistics? Were there any specific courses or experiences during the program that stood out to you?
The ZLOGb program significantly enhanced my understanding of supply chain dynamics and global logistics through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experiences. It delved into the complexity of supply chains, teaching me how various components interact and affect performance, particularly through courses on supply chain modeling and simulation. The program emphasized system dynamics, enabling me to model supply chain systems for better decision-making. It also stressed the importance of aligning supply chain strategies with business goals for greater efficiency. Managing global supply chains and understanding international logistics were standout experiences, along with a strong focus on risk management and resilience, equipping me to identify and mitigate potential risks effectively, especially with the current geopolitical threats that could substantially affect supply chains.
The blended program starts every January at MIT with students from other MIT SCALE centers to be continued in Spain at ZLC campus. What specific aspects of the MIT experience had the most significant impact on you?
From day one at Cambridge, you are thrust into competition mode, immersed in real-world logistics challenges. Rapidly, you need to transition to collaboration mode with highly specialized professionals from different MIT SCALE campuses whom you have just met. This experience was invaluable as, in a very short time, you must identify the strengths within your team to develop solutions for real problems faced by actual companies. This process not only hones your managerial skills but also requires you to absorb a vast amount of technical knowledge quickly, akin to drinking from a fire hose. The intensity and collaborative nature of the MIT experience had a profound impact on my ability to tackle complex supply chain issues effectively.
Right after completing the program, you joined Microsoft as a Strategic Sourcing Manager. Can you share an example of a supply chain challenge you’ve successfully addressed to date?
Network infrastructure upstream supply chains are heavily dependent on the manufacturing footprint located in the APAC region, making them highly susceptible to disruptions due to geopolitical issues in that area. Consequently, many of my projects have focused on risk management and resilience, aiming to identify and mitigate potential risks effectively. This approach ensures the stability and continuity of our supply chain operations while aligning supply chain strategies with business goals for greater efficiency.
How can a tech company like Microsoft enhance supply chain agility, automation, and sustainability?
At Microsoft, our mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. To support this mission, we have developed solutions that enhance supply chain agility, automation, and sustainability through our Microsoft Supply Chain Platform. This platform integrates advanced AI, collaboration tools, low-code solutions, and SaaS applications to create a flexible and open foundation for supply chain management. It increases visibility across data sources, predicts and mitigates disruptions, and streamlines collaboration. The platform also includes the Microsoft Supply Chain Center, a command center that works with existing supply chain data and applications to provide real-time insights and order management. By leveraging the full Microsoft Cloud, including Azure, Dynamics 365, Microsoft Teams, and the Power Platform, organizations can develop custom workflows, enhance data visibility, and ensure sustainable practices.
What advice would you give to potential ZLOGb candidates who are currently completing the MITx microcourses?
When you commit to something, strive for excellence and go the full distance. MITx courses are a fantastic source of knowledge, but it’s equally important to practice and strengthen your network. The ZLOGb program offers this unique combination. You’ll gain access to the prestigious MIT network and immerse yourself in the beautiful country of Spain. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with supply chain leaders from Fortune 500 companies and visit operations in a different country. This experience not only broadens your knowledge but also provides invaluable practical insights and networking opportunities that are crucial for your career growth.
