Hello and welcome to SCM 7202: Purchasing and Supply Chain Management.
My name is Dr. Disraeli Asante-Darko, and I’m truly excited to have you in this class. I am an Associate Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management with experience in both academia and industry, particularly in data analytics, operations strategy, and supply chain decision-making.
I’ve spent several years teaching and working in the areas of operations and supply chain management, and one thing I’ve learned is that some of the most important decisions in any organization happen quietly—through purchasing, sourcing, and supplier management. These decisions shape cost, quality, efficiency, and even how resilient an organization is in times of uncertainty.
In this course, I hope to create a learning environment where you feel comfortable to ask questions, share ideas, and challenge assumptions. My goal is not just for you to understand the concepts, but to help you think differently about how organizations operate and make decisions.
I’m looking forward to learning with you over the semester.
Benefits of This Course
This course is designed to give you practical skills and perspectives that you can apply immediately.
1. Learn How Real Decisions Are Made
You will gain insight into how organizations actually make purchasing and sourcing decisions—not just in theory, but in practice.
2. Build Confidence in Handling Complex Problems
Supply chains are often uncertain and unpredictable. This course will help you become more confident in thinking through challenges and making sound decisions.
3. See the Bigger Picture
You will understand how purchasing connects to other parts of the organization, including finance, operations, and strategy.
4. Develop a Practical Skill Set
The tools and concepts you learn here are useful across many industries and roles, whether you are interested in operations, consulting, entrepreneurship, or general management.
5. Prepare for Real-World Challenges
From supply disruptions to cost pressures and ethical considerations, you will be better prepared to navigate the kinds of challenges organizations face today.
Final Note
I encourage you to stay curious, stay engaged, and make the most of this learning experience. This course will be most valuable if you actively participate and connect what we discuss to real-world situations.
I’m really looking forward to the journey ahead with you.
- Lecturer: Disraeli Asante-Darko