CSCMP CEO Appointed to Serve on US Department of Commerce Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness

Lombard, Illinois USA (October 29, 2012) -- The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals'(CSCMP) president and chief executive officer, Rick Blasgen, has been appointed to serve on the US Department of Commerce's Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness. Blasgen has more than 20 years' experience in the supply chain management industry, holding senior-level positions at companies such as Nabisco, Kraft, and ConAgra Foods.

Acting US Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank recently announced the launch of the new committee in recognition of the critical role that supply chains play in enabling products to be made in America and exported around the world. The Committee, comprised of 40 senior-level private sector representatives of multiple industries and supply chain experts appointed by the Secretary of Commerce, will advise the Secretary, the US Department of Transportation, and other US agencies on supply chain issues that affect the international competitiveness of US businesses.

"I am honored to serve on this important committee," said Blasgen. "Efficient supply chain management is now widely being recognized as a critical component in ensuring that the United States remains competitive in today's global marketplace. CSCMP is committed to advancing the disciplines of logistics and supply chain management, and enhancing the value that we as professionals offer our companies, our country, and the economies we serve. I, along with the other members, will work hard to provide relevant insights and guidance to Department of Commerce leaders so they can achieve their supply chain goals."

Committee members are leaders in their fields of expertise and represent supply chain firms, associations, stakeholders, community organizations, and also include experts from academia. The Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson will serve on the Committee as non-voting members, and Department of Commerce officials will work closely with those and other agencies to coordinate government activities and programs to implement Committee member recommendations.

"The Obama administration recognizes that in order to be competitive in today's global economy, American manufacturers need to be able to move products and goods securely, quickly, and efficiently within our borders and beyond," said Acting US Commerce Secretary Blank. "The Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness will provide crucial input on issues related to national freight infrastructure and policies so that we can best help millions of US businesses export goods, compete domestically and globally, and support American jobs."

The Advisory Committee on Supply Chain Competitiveness will act as a liaison between industry and government, and is an important step toward ensuring regular contact with the supply chain industries, including manufacturers, distributors, and exporters. Committee members' advice will also be useful in the development of a national freight policy and in executing the President's National Export Initiative, which aims to double US exports by the end of 2014.

US supply chains are critically dependent on the quality and capacity of America's freight transportation network, the largest and most extensive freight infrastructure in the world. The network serves over 7.5 million US business establishments, carrying some 13 billion tons of raw materials and finished goods annually between production and consumption centers.

?Blasgen and the other members will serve on the Committee until November 20, 2013. To learn more about the Committee and to view a complete list of members, visit http://ita.doc.gov/td/sif/DSCT/ACSCC/.

About CSCMP:
 
Founded in 1963, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals is the leading worldwide professional association dedicated to education, research, and the advancement of the supply chain management profession. With more than 9,000 members globally, representing business, government, and academia from 63 countries, CSCMP members are the leading practitioners and authorities in the fields of logistics and supply chain management.