On The New Warehouse Podcast, Kevin sits down with Oda Bolden. Oda is the Director of Supply Chain Network, RSD(Radiology, Sterile, & Disposable) Manufacturing at Bayer Healthcare. With over 35 years at Bayer, Oda provides invaluable insights into supply chain management in the medical industry. From handling warehousing and distribution to tackling labor shortages and optimizing operational efficiency, this conversation dives into how Bayer keeps its supply chain running smoothly. Oda shares how his team navigates sterilization, third-party logistics (3PLs), and technology-driven process improvements.

Strategic Distribution and Sterilization Processes

Bayer Healthcare’s supply chain structure is unique, requiring a balance of in-house and third-party partnerships to ensure efficiency. Oda explains, “We have a distribution center that’s operated by a large 3PL. My team is focused on moving material into that distribution center.” A key aspect of Bayer’s process involves sterilization, which adds an extra layer of complexity. After manufacturing, Oda’s team sends products to a third-party sterilization facility before transporting them back to the distribution center. “A good part of what we do is make sure, whether it’s one of our trailers or a trailer belonging to one of the freight companies we work with, we’re inspecting that trailer for damage prior to loading our product,” Oda notes. This rigorous quality control ensures medical products remain uncontaminated and meet strict safety standards.

How Bayer Embraces Technological Advancements

The transition from paper-based systems to digital solutions has been a crucial shift for Bayer’s supply chain operations. “We went from totally paper-based to starting to use some technology to help us track material and make sure we know where it is,” Oda shares. One key improvement was the introduction of dock scheduling software to regulate truck deliveries. “We receive a lot of full truckloads of raw material, but deliveries weren’t consistent. We implemented a dock scheduling software to get a handle on that.” Additionally, the team developed an app to streamline route management for in-house trucking, allowing drivers to update their progress in real-time. When navigating change, Oda emphasizes the importance of involving others, “ I think the biggest part of any change is to make sure that you’re getting feedback from the people that do the work and let them be a part of the solution.”

How Bayer Addresses Workforce Challenges

Labor shortages continue to be a pressing issue in warehousing, and Bayer has adopted a strategic approach to hiring and retention. Oda highlights, “The number one challenge in warehousing is staffing. It’s really hard to consistently get the staffing you need and to get them to stay.” To combat this, Bayer partners with temp agencies to test potential hires before offering full-time positions. “That allows us to bring them in and see what their work ethic is, to see if they fit on the team,” Oda explains.

Additionally, fostering a collaborative work culture is critical. “We don’t go with the traditional hierarchy model. We work together with one goal in mind—to get products to our customers.” By prioritizing team involvement and fit, Bayer ensures a more stable workforce and minimizes turnover.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Partnerships: Utilizing 3PLs and third-party sterilization services ensures efficiency in a complex supply chain.
• Technology Integration: Implementing digital tools, such as dock scheduling software and route management apps, enhances productivity.
• Workforce Management: Hiring through temp agencies ensures team fit and improves employee retention.
• Process Optimization: Reducing the number of material “touches” from receipt to end-use improves efficiency and lowers costs.