Focus on innovation at successful Smart 2009 conference

More than 500 supply chain management professionals attended this year’s Smart Conference at the Sydney Exhibition and Convention Cente, Darling Harbour.  Within the broad theme of ‘Bridging the Gap’, a full programme of seminars delivered insights from innovators and thought leaders from right across the supply chain field.

Sessions at Smart 2009, which took place on June 10 and 11, were based on new thinking for surviving and thriving during the economic downturn.  Content included lessons learnt through experience and advice for managing current industry pressures.

Chief Executive Officer of World Vision Tim Costello, who delivered the opening keynote address, spoke about the potential of partnerships between businesses and non-governmental organisations to address the wellbeing of communities  that exist at the end of most supply chains, often living on the borders of poverty, exploitation and abuse.  He gave some pointers from World Vision’s perspective for organisations considering the shape of their future supply chain strategies.

The Smart Awards dinner was a great success. Len Harper, Chairman of Smart Awards 2009, says the “quality overall of the entries we received this year was exceptional”.

The Awards celebrate exceptional corporate and individual performance in key supply chain and logistics industry sectors. 
This year, there was a particular focus on innovation and new business strategy, with judges looking for businesses who are addressing industry challenges in new and successful ways, and who are leading their peers in areas such as corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

Founder of Linfox, Lindsay Fox AC, was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Supply Chain Management in Australia accolade.

Click here to see all Smart Award winners.