In this episode, I am joined by Nitin Jayakrishnan, Co-founder & CEO of Pando. We discussed the evolution of his Pando, which focuses on AI-driven logistics and supply chain automation. He highlighted the shift in supply chain technology, focusing on the importance of talent, innovation, and agility.
Pando’s AI agents automate manual processes, integrating with existing systems like TMS and ERP. Success stories include a $250 billion pharmaceutical distributor saving 18-20% in direct costs and a $1 billion automotive manufacturer improving control and efficiency. Nitin also advised supply chain executives to focus on granular process improvements, staying informed about industry trends, and prioritizing agility.
Connect with the Guest:
Nitin Jayakrishnan is Co-founder & CEO of Pando a leader in AI for logistics headquartered in Mountain View, CA. Pando is backed by marquee investors, including Nexus Venture Partners, Iron Pillar, Uncorrelated Ventures, Chiratae Ventures & Siemens Next47, with customers like P&G, Dunkin’, Nestle, J&J, BP Castrol, Honda and Cummins. Nitin oversees Pando’s product & GTM strategy focused on global expansion. Before Pando, Nitin was co-founder and CPO of iDelivery, a digital freight marketplace. To discover more, visit www.pando.ai
Highlights & Show Notes:
- [01:06] Getting inspiration from the family business to focus on logistics led to the launching of two startups in the space.
- [03:01] Starting Pando, focusing on AI-driven automation to reduce manual processes, improve efficiency, and transform logistics for global brands.
- [09:14] Growing excitement in working in the supply chain space, both for existing and new talents.
- [11:24] Venture capital flowing into supply chain tech and the emergence of new startups.
- [14:37] AI is becoming the next major leap for supply chain tech, offering an opportunity for businesses to leapfrog traditional tech adoption.
- [17:38] Companies are turning to AI to automate logistics tasks and scale operations without relying on limited human resources.
- [22:53] Pando enhances existing systems by automating manual processes, helping businesses improve efficiency and focus on strategic growth.
- [27:22] Integrating a team of AI Agents who are logistics and supply chain experts to enable supply chain leaders to focus on delivering business processes with accuracy and efficiency rather than getting caught up in buzzwords or technology.
- [29:11] Automating routine logistics tasks with AI agents and allowing supply chain teams to focus on strategic work.
- [31:01] Customer success story of a global pharmaceutical distribution company using Pando to streamline their freight audit and payment process, leading to 18-20% savings in direct costs.
- [35:58] How Pando’s AI Agents are automating freight procurement to improve efficiency and reduce the need for manual intervention.
- [40:40] Customer success story of a $1 billion automotive manufacturer improving its logistics processes by integrating Pando
- [46:19] Key advice for supply chain executives: Stay informed, focus on small efficiencies, and embrace agility.
Quotes from the Episode:
About the Host:
A wonderful discussion with Nitin Jayakrishnan! I am your host, Andrei Palamariu, Founder of Supplify and Head of Innovation at Alcott Global. At Supplify, we connect the supply chain tech ecosystem via a digital platform. We match corporations with top tech companies to solve their supply chain and logistics challenges. If there is anything tech in the supply chain, contact me.
Alcott Global provides executive search solutions for key positions at all pillars of end-to-end value chains, from general management to overall supply chain operations, including executive and non-executive board roles.
On April 9-10, 2025, we are bringing together 80 C-level executives from multinational companies to connect, collaborate, and innovate on a forum focused on business value creation at Makers & Movers.
Yearly, we celebrate and award the Top 30 Supply Chain Leaders who push for excellence and inspire the future of the industry.
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