Supply Chain Stories is a series of recorded interviews with Chief Supply Chain Officers, COOs and senior operations leaders to provide advice, guidance and mentorship to the supply chain community.
Alex Johnson, Chief Supply Chain and Business Transformation Officer, Clinigen
Sam Berke, Head of Global Supply Chain Search at Pod Talent, sat down with Alex Johnson, Chief Supply Chain and Business Transformation Officer at Clinigen. Alex’s career has spanned operational leadership, turnaround programs, and large-scale digital transformations, giving him a unique perspective on what drives lasting change in complex organisations.
Throughout the conversation, Alex reflects on lessons from leading teams through transformation, emphasising the power of empathy, simplicity, and clear communication. Having begun his career on the shop floor, he highlights the importance of understanding every layer of operations - and how that experience builds credibility and connection as a senior leader.
Alex discusses why 70% of transformations fail, the mindset shift required to make change stick, and how modern leaders can harness AI and technology to deliver real impact rather than chasing buzzwords. He also shares candid insights into life within private equity–backed businesses, where results matter but humanity and culture remain key to sustainable performance.
This episode offers actionable advice for aspiring supply chain and operations leaders - from how to stand out early in your career, to building cross-functional influence, to stepping into the C-suite with confidence and humility.