Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™

Adapt and Deliver with Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc.

Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc.

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Chad Whyte, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at Utz Brands, Inc. to discuss his career journey and the evolution of supply chain management in the consumables industry. Chad shares how his Penn State education prepared him for leadership, the challenges facing modern supply chains, and strategies for building agility and resilience in today's dynamic landscape. He provides insight into Utz's new state-of-the-art logistics center and how it's advancing supply chain efficiency, while also offering valuable perspectives on workforce development and student preparedness. Listeners will gain practical advice on supply chain flexibility, the importance of cross-functional expertise, and Chad's guiding principles for career success. 

Takeaways: 

• Career progression from Penn State to Executive VP of Supply Chain 

• Challenges and opportunities in consumables supply chain management 

• Building agile and resilient supply chains in a changing landscape 

• Utz's state-of-the-art logistics center and its impact on efficiency 

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Bio: 

Chad Whyte was appointed to Executive Vice President, Supply Chain for Utz Brands, Inc. in June 2022. As EVP, Supply Chain, he has responsibility for Procurement, Supply and Demand Planning, Distribution, Transportation and the Customer Logistics functions. Chad joined Utz in January 2022 as Senior Vice President, Supply Chain Planning and Logistics. He joined Utz with 25 years of experience in supply chain roles, most recently as President and Chief Executive Officer of Aloe Group, a consulting firm that has been working closely with Utz on several value creation initiatives. Prior to Aloe, Chad was Vice President, Supply Chain at Pinnacle Foods, where he was responsible for all transportation, warehousing and network optimization for a $3.5 billion revenue business. Prior to Pinnacle Foods, he was Senior Director, Logistics at Campbell Soup Company; Director, Logistics North America at Reckitt Benckiser; and Director, Supply Chain Planning at Church & Dwight Company. 

Chad received a B.S. in Supply Chain and Information Systems, as well as an M.B.A., from The Pennsylvania State University. He was also an adjunct faculty member for Penn State’s Executive Education Program on Achieving Supply Chain Transformation. 

Reimagining Restaurant Supply Chains with John Burke, Executive Chairman of Armada Sunset Holdings

In this episode, our hosts sit down with John Burke, Executive Chairman of ARMADA Sunset Holdings, to explore his over 30 year journey with one of the largest players in the food service supply chain. John shares insights into ARMADA's critical role in supporting the restaurants we frequent weekly, the biggest challenges facing the food service industry today, and the company's most successful strategies for overcoming them. He discusses how customer needs are evolving, lessons learned from the COVID era, and the supply chain technologies shaping ARMADA's future. As a Penn State graduate and long-time supporter of the Center for Supply Chain Research, John also reflects on advice he'd give his younger self and the guiding principles that have defined his remarkable career.

Takeaways:

• ARMADA's role in the food service supply chain ecosystem
• Navigating industry challenges and customer evolution
• COVID-era lessons applied to modern supply chain planning
• Technology priorities for future supply chain success

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Bio: 

As the Executive Chairman of Armada Sunset Holdings, John leads a supply chain management enterprise that support its clients competitive market positions by optimizing their supply chain networks. By emphasizing data-lead innovation and strategic partnerships, the companies of Armada Sunset Holdings work hard to improve operational processes, simplify logistics, and reduce costs.

As a supply chain industry professional for over three decades, he has dedicated his career to developing and implementing creative supply chain solutions for national retail brands. John came to Armada in 1992, co-founded Hub One Logistics in 1996, and established LXP in 2006. Both companies were consolidated under Armada in 2011. Following the strategic acquisitions of Sunset Transportation in 2022 and ATEC in 2023, Armada Sunset Holdings has evolved into a comprehensive, fully integrated supply chain service provider, boasting operations and offices spanning North America.

He holds a BS from Pennsylvania State University and an MSIA from the Tepper School at Carnegie Mellon University. John has served on the advisory boards of the Penn State Center for Supply Chain Research, Women’s Foodservice Forum, the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation. He formerly served on the Pennsylvania State Workforce Investment Board and on the Board of Directors of the American Textile Company.

From Line Operator to Logistics Luminary: Exploring the Career of Rob Haddock, Transportation Advisor at Albedo Logistics Solutions

In today’s episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Rob Haddock, Transportation Advisor at Albedo Logistics Solutions, to reflect on his career journey from entry-level at Coca-Cola to leading logistics operations and now consulting. Rob discusses how the logistics landscape has evolved, the challenges clients face today, and the strategies that can help organizations align transportation with broader supply chain goals. He highlights the technologies transforming logistics, the importance of adaptability, and the value of experience in guiding companies through change. Rob also shares personal insights on career success, advice to his younger self, and the guiding principles that have shaped his professional life. 

Takeaways: 

• Taking what was learned at Coca-Cola into Albedo Logistics Solutions 

• The alignment of logistics strategies with the broader supply chain to drive real business value. 

• Technology’s effect on logistics and the innovation that has come with it 

• Reflection on his career and advice Rob would have given to his 18-year-old self 

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Bio: 

Rob Haddock is a supply chain innovation leader driving industry modernization and collaboration with a passion for connecting, educating, and developing supply chain professions.  A recently retired seasoned professional with decades of supply and operations management experience with the Coca-Cola Company ranging from plant management, customer service, business liaison, vendor managed inventories, operational excellence, Sales & Operations Planning, transportation management, production & deployment planning, integrated business planning & SAP SME. In his final role, he was responsible for leading all Coca-Cola North America’s transportation & On Time In Full performance. Rob is an industry-wide driver for innovation, process improvement and a current CSCMP Board member. 

Trucks Move the World: Insights from Bill Lyons, President and CEO at Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, Inc.

In today’s episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Bill Lyons, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, to discuss his career journey and the company’s role in the global trucking industry. Bill shares how his early commercial experience prepared him for leadership, the challenges and complexities of today’s supply chains, and the importance of building resilience through people, processes, and technology. He also provides insight into the upcoming integration with Hino Motors, the future of sustainable and connected vehicle technology, and the value of mentorship in preparing the next generation of leaders.

Takeaways: 

• Supply chain resiliency and its dependence on strong people, clear processes, and adaptive technology 

• The complexity of tariffs and skills needed to overcome the challenges 

• Integration with and advancement in sustainable vehicle technology 

• The meaning of leadership and the values Bill holds close 

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Bio: 

Bill Lyons currently serves as President & CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America, Inc. (MFTA). Bill has served two stints at MFTA over the course of his career. Bill began his career in 1983 in Parts Operations at Iveco Trucks of North America, then moved to Vehicle Distribution. He then joined MFTA in March 1986, as Truck Sales Supervisor. For the next twenty-two years, Bill worked in the growing company, and was promoted several times, eventually attaining the position of Director, Select Sales and Vehicle Distribution.  He left MFTA in June 2008, when the company moved its headquarters briefly to Detroit. For the next six years he worked for ARI/Holman Global Fleet Management in Fleet Management Client Services. He returned to MFTA in 2014 as Vice President, Sales Operations, and assumed his current position as President & CEO in January, 2022. In his current role, he is responsible for all aspects of the company’s operations in the United Stated and Canada.  Bill has a B.S. in Marketing from Penn State University. He and his wife Susan reside in Sewell, New Jersey and have three children, Victoria, Lisa and Bill.    

LTL Unpacked with Eric Chambers, VP, LTL Services & Strategy at BlueGrace Logistics

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Eric Chambers, VP, LTL Services & Strategy at BlueGrace Logistics LLC, to reflect on his career, his role in the growth of BlueGrace Logistics, and his perspectives on the evolving transportation industry. Eric shares how BlueGrace has adapted over nearly two decades, highlighting the importance of leadership, technology, and customer strategy in driving success. He also emphasizes practical advice: work with experienced 3PLs, invest in culture to retain talent, and use predictive analytics and integrations to boost efficiency and customer service.

Takeaways: 

• Eric’s semi-retirement and roles with BlueGrace Logistics 

• Leadership philosophies in a growing and evolving company 

• The unique operations of LTL shipments and the attention given by broker and Managed Transportation services. 

• Retaining talent in an industry with high turnover rates 

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Biography:  

Eric Chambers grew up in Jersey Shore, PA and graduated from Penn State in 1981 with a degree in Business Logistics, where he had the privilege of studying under Dr. John Coyle. After graduation, he moved to Denver to begin his career and joined Roadway Express in 1982, later advancing into management roles with Yellow Freight across Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, and Kansas. In 1996, he relocated to Florida as Director of Business Development, where he met Bobby Harris, who would later found BlueGrace Logistics. Eric joined Bobby in 2007 and helped build BlueGrace from fewer than 20 employees into a company with over 600 employees across the U.S. and Mexico. Over the years, he served in leadership roles including Director of Logistics, VP of Sales, and VP of LTL Services and Strategy. As of July 2025, Eric entered semi-retirement and now consults with BlueGrace while enjoying golf, boating, and traveling with his wife, Roseann, of 30 years. Throughout his career, he has encouraged others in management to treat their people well, reminding them that one day they may end up working for those they lead. 

Dare to Be Great: Lessons from Jeff Douville, Director of Logistics at General Dynamics Electric Boat

In this episode, Donna and Tom sit down with Jeff Douville, Director of Logistics at General Dynamics Electric Boat to discuss supply chain leadership, logistics strategy, and lessons from a 40-year career spanning the military and industry.

Jeff explains how focus, collaboration, and flow efficiency keep production lines moving, and he outlines strategies for managing disruption, from red-team risk planning to building agility, resilience, and decision-ready analytics. He also highlights technology opportunities such as AI, reshoring trends, and the importance of turning data into actionable decisions.

Listeners will gain practical advice for supply chain professionals and students on leadership, teamwork, and preparing for a dynamic future in logistics.

Takeaways: 

• Introduction to General Dynamics Electric Boat 

• Exploring commonalities between military, to automotive, and defense systems industries that all logisticians can apply 

• How the supply chain may evolve in the next 5-10 years 

• Advice for mid-career professionals and those starting out in the supply chain management field 

Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr 

Guest Biography: 

Jeff joined Electric Boat as Director of Logistics in May 2023. He is a career manufacturing & distribution supply chain leader having served in the U.S. Army, Defense Industry, Automotive Industry, and Consumer & Industrial Products Industry. Jeff takes great pride in inspiring shared success with a people-focused, performance-driven approach. His academic credentials include a Master’s in Business Logistics & Operations Research from Penn State University, a Master’s in Strategic Planning from the U.S. Army War College, and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Jeff is an APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional and serves on the Advisory Board of Penn State’s Tarriff Center for Business Ethics and Social Responsibility. 

Welcome to Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™

The Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research is excited to announce the launch of its new podcast, debuting on November 5!

Hosted by Donna Palumbo, Executive Director of the Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State, and Tom Nightingale, Chief Executive Officer of MNC Transportation, Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™ brings you engaging conversations with top industry leaders, including many Penn State alumni, who share firsthand insights on how supply chains shape resilient, agile, and thriving organizations. 

From planning and procurement to logistics, manufacturing, and distribution, this podcast explores the full spectrum of supply chain functions and the leaders driving them forward. Whether navigating periods of growth or overcoming disruption, you’ll discover how strong supply chain strategies fuel business performance. 

New episodes are released every Wednesday and are available on all major podcast streaming platforms.

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Stay connected with CSCR on LinkedIn (Center for Supply Chain Research) and Instagram (@pennstatesupplychain), and be sure to follow us on Spotify, Apply Podcasts, or wherever you are tuning into Unpacked: Insights hosted by the Penn State Smeal Center for Supply Chain Research™. Thank you for joining us! 

Visit our website: https://www.smeal.psu.edu/cscr