Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Sign In

Untangling Supplier Data: The Hidden Risks in Your Procurement Systems

The Problem: Disconnected Supplier Data

Many organizations believe their procurement and supplier management processes are working smoothly—until they take a closer look. Procurement leaders often rely on multiple systems, such as ERP platforms, risk intelligence providers, and supplier management tools, each handling a different piece of the supplier lifecycle. While these systems may function well in isolation, the lack of integration creates data silos, inefficiencies, and risks that can go unnoticed until a disruption occurs. 

Imagine this common scenario: A procurement leader insists their internal systems manage supplier data effectively. But when asked where banking validation occurs, they reference their ERP. Supplier onboarding? That happens in a separate workflow tool. Risk profiling? That data sits in multiple third-party solutions that offer no integrated view. And ongoing supplier updates? Those are rarely monitored in real-time and often are updated only at contract renewal.  

This disconnected approach leads to manual data entry, duplicate records, and outdated information—all of which expose businesses to financial, operational, and reputational risk. 

The Hidden Costs of Dirty Data

Supplier data inconsistencies may seem like only an administrative headache, but they can also have significant financial implications. Consider these risks:

  • Compliance Failures: Outdated supplier information can lead to non-compliance with regulations such as DORA, SCDDA, and ESG mandates, resulting in fines and legal action. 
  • Fraud & Payment Errors: Manually entered bank details increase the risk of fraud and payment misdirection. 
  • Operational Bottlenecks: A lack of real-time updates causes delays in supplier vetting, onboarding, and risk assessment, slowing down procurement cycles. 
  • Missed Risk Signals: Without a unified view, businesses may overlook financial instability, sanctions, or cybersecurity vulnerabilities in their supplier base. 

The Business Case for a Centralized Supplier Data Solution

Procurement leaders facing resource constraints and growing regulatory complexity need a better way to manage supplier data. A centralized, integrated approach—like the one offered by Trust Your Supplier (TYS)—eliminates data silos, ensuring that supplier information is accurate, up-to-date, and easily accessible. 

With TYS, organizations can: 

  • Automate Supplier Onboarding & Updates: Streamline data validation and risk profiling across multiple sources.  TYS integrates with multiple risk data providers, allowing you to seamlessly bring 3rd party risk analysis and insights into the platform. 
  • Ensure Compliance & Reduce Risk: Maintain up-to-date supplier information to align with regulatory requirements.  TYS’ Connect allows suppliers to securely store up-to-date documentation, including validated bank account information, in one place.  
  • Enhance Decision-Making: Gain a holistic view of supplier risk and performance with real-time insights. Drill down into key data points and access supplier profiles directly from dynamic reports. 
  • Reduce Costs & Improve Efficiency: Minimize manual work, reduce errors using TYS’s intelligent workflow modeling to accelerate procurement cycles and leading to measurable ROI.  

In today’s volatile business environment—where geopolitical risks, cyber threats, and supply chain disruptions are increasing—accurate supplier data is not just a convenience, but a necessity. Companies investing in a comprehensive supplier management solution like TYS gain not only operational efficiencies but also a competitive advantage. By eliminating data chaos and ensuring real-time visibility, procurement teams can make faster, smarter decisions that protect their business and drive long-term value. 

The question isn’t whether businesses can afford to centralize supplier data—it’s whether they can afford not to. 

Stay ahead of the latest supplier management insights! Follow us on LinkedIn for expert tips, industry trends, and updates from Trust Your Supplier. 

April Harrison Blog, Supplier Information Management 0 Comments ,

A Day in the Life of a Global Business Leader: Sri Mudunuri

As a co-founder and CFO of Trust Your Supplier, as well as a co-owner of IT People Corporation and Chainyard, Sri Mudunuri plays a vital role in shaping global business strategies. Balancing leadership across multiple companies while working closely with teams in both the U.S. and India requires focus, resilience, and a deep commitment to collaboration. In honor of International Women’s Day, we take a closer look at Sri’s approach to leadership, problem-solving, and balance in an exclusive Q&A. 

What does a typical morning look like for you? 

Sri Mudunuri: A typical day starts with the news. After I get up, I put on the local news just to understand what’s going on at the local level. Then, CNBC—it’s a must for me. The first part of my day is understanding what’s going on in the world. 

I usually arrive at the office around 9:30 AM. I’m not a morning person because I work late with the India team. By the time I go to bed, it’s around 1 AM. Once I’m at the office, I review the list of items that I didn’t complete the previous day. Then, I check for any new, time-sensitive issues before diving into meetings and calls. 

How do you approach problem-solving when faced with unexpected challenges? 

Sri Mudunuri: First, I assess whether it’s a problem I’ve encountered before. If I have, I categorize it as less challenging and set it aside until the evening, when I can formulate a plan—what’s the timeline, do I need help, and if so, from whom? The next day, I notify those involved and provide the necessary details. 

For new challenges, I start by understanding the liability and business impact—whether financial, operational, strategic, or logistical. I consult the right experts, research solutions online, and even use AI tools to gain insights. I believe in taking the help that’s available and being hands-on in analyzing all the details. 

Experience equips you to handle challenges. Every problem has an outcome—it might not always be the one you wanted, but there’s always a resolution. 

What role does collaboration play in your leadership style? 

Sri Mudunuri: My personal belief is that collaboration and ownership are separate. I love collaborating—gathering insights, seeking input, and working as a team. But when something is on my plate, I take full ownership. 

At the end of the day, I am responsible for providing leadership and direction. While I rely on my team, it’s my role to ensure alignment and drive execution. 

How do you balance long-term strategic thinking with daily business demands?

Sri Mudunuri: You don’t work on planning strategy every day. You set a strategy at the beginning of the year, define quarterly and monthly priorities, and then execute daily. 

It may seem like I’m just focusing on day-to-day tasks, but each of those tasks ties back to a larger, strategic plan. The key is understanding that daily work is just small steps toward executing a bigger vision. 

How is your workday different when you’re in India compared to when you’re in the U.S.? 

Sri Mudunuri: In India, my workday starts in the late afternoon, around 4:30 PM. I’m more physically exhausted when working in India because I cannot just sleep or take rest in the daytime. While I’m there, I also have family and social obligations during the day, which are different from my routine in the U.S. Since I don’t see my family in India often, I make it a priority to spend time with them while I’m there. This means balancing both personal and professional commitments, so I really have to be motivated and increase my drive level when in India. 

How does the collaboration between teams in the U.S. and India strengthen the company’s overall success? 

Sri Mudunuri: Businesses today are global—there are no physical barriers or boundaries. Having teams in different locations strengthens our ability to operate seamlessly, no matter where we are. 

How do you manage stress and maintain resilience? 

Sri Mudunuri: Having a good, collaborative team keeps stress at a manageable level. That’s the key. 

Personally, when I feel stressed, I turn to numbers. I’ll dive into financial data, analyze key indicators, and crunch numbers. Numbers don’t carry opinions or biases—they’re purely data-driven. As a CFO, that kind of clarity helps me reset and refocus. 

What advice would you give to women navigating leadership while maintaining balance? 

Sri Mudunuri: Women sometimes drift away from the logical path, letting emotions influence decisions. I’ve seen young women mix personal and professional matters, but work is for a purpose—it’s not personal. 

Communication is key. Don’t internalize everything—speak up and express your concerns. And most importantly, learn to say no. Saying no is perfectly fine. 

What are you reading?

Sri Mudunuri: The most recent book I read was Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck. I’m also part of an online CEO book club and enjoy Reese Witherspoon’s book club picks. I’m a big fan of Malcolm Gladwell’s work as well. 

I also highly recommend the video series Moments That Make Us by Melinda French Gates. It’s incredibly insightful. 

How do you end your day? 

Sri Mudunuri: Sometimes, I’ll have a glass of wine, but more often, I wind down by talking things through with a few trusted mentors—people who have a vested interest in my growth and aren’t afraid to challenge me. I’ll ask, Did I mess something up? Am I wrong? Could I be missing something? I don’t want people who just tell me I’m right—I want honest feedback to help me see the big picture. 

A Leadership Approach Built on Insight, Adaptability, and Collaboration 

Sri Mudunuri’s leadership is a testament to balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution. Whether she’s navigating global business operations, problem-solving with her team, or gaining new perspectives from trusted advisors, she approaches every challenge with resilience and curiosity. 

Her ability to adapt—whether working in the U.S. or India—reflects the power of collaboration and diverse thinking in today’s borderless business world. And through it all, she remains focused on what matters most: driving success, fostering innovation, and continuously learning along the way. 

 

 

April Harrison Blog, Spotlight 0 Comments ,