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Thumbnail of Employee Spotlight with photo of Jamie Eldredge.

Employee Spotlight: Jamie Eldredge’s Journey in Blockchain Engineering

We are thrilled to spotlight one of our talented blockchain engineers, Jamie Eldredge, and learn from him what it’s like to work in the field of blockchain technology. With over five years of experience at Trust Your Supplier, Eldredge exemplifies the blend of technical expertise and adaptability needed to thrive in this dynamic industry. 

Jamie’s passion for technology began early in his life. Growing up, he was always fascinated by computers. High school career aptitude tests suggested paths like actuarial science or accounting, but the idea of working with spreadsheets all day wasn’t appealing. “Programming offered a perfect blend of something I was good at and something I enjoyed—problem-solving and variety,” he recalls. Jamie Eldredge working at computer.

His decision to venture into blockchain engineering was driven by the technology’s novelty and potential. At a time when blockchain was still an emerging field, it presented a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technology without the constraints of long-established practices. “It was thrilling to dive into a space where pioneering work was still possible,” he reflects. 

For Jamie, the most compelling aspect of his role is the constant variety and challenge it offers. “Every day brings something new,” he explains, highlighting how the dynamic nature of blockchain keeps his work engaging. Whether it’s tackling a new problem, acquiring a new skill, or diving into fresh research, the job is anything but monotonous. 

Jamie Eldredge riding a scooter in the office.Jamie emphasizes that problem-solving and adaptability are crucial skills for a blockchain engineer. Given the technology’s youth, there is a continuous influx of new information and developments. “Being able to critically evaluate situations and devise effective solutions is key,” he says. The ability to adapt and integrate new knowledge reliably ensures that professionals like Jamie stay at the forefront of this rapidly changing field. 

Reflecting on his journey, Jamie offers valuable advice to aspiring engineers: have confidence and persevere. “Life is full of ups and downs, and failures are inevitable,” he notes. However, maintaining confidence in one’s abilities and a steadfast commitment to moving forward are vital to finding success. 

Currently, Jamie’s work is focused on the development side of applications, specifically addressing production bugs and implementation issues. Ensuring that the app is user-friendly and efficient is a top priority. He also works on implementing new features and configurations for clients, continually enhancing the platform’s functionality. 

Jamie wishes more people understood that being a blockchain engineer isn’t about instant solutions. “Things take time, and prioritization is crucial,” he explains. Precision and a methodical approach are essential to achieving the best outcomes in this field. Jamie Eldredge and his collection of rubix cubes

Outside of his professional life, Jamie has a hidden talent for solving Rubik’s Cubes. This interest began as a high school fad but quickly turned into a passion. Over the years, his collection has grown, and he finds solving them to be a relaxing and enjoyable challenge. 

As Jamie continues to explore and contribute to this revolutionary technology, he has now become a mentor to others entering the field. His journey and insights serve as an inspiration, guiding new engineers as they navigate the complexities and opportunities of blockchain. Jamie’s dedication not only advances our projects but also fosters a collaborative and innovative environment at Trust Your Supplier. 

April Harrison Blockchain, Blog, Spotlight 0 Comments
TYS Precheck Blog image

Streamlining Supplier Engagement: The TYS Pre-Check Experience

As many of us prepare for summer holidays, the anticipation of travel often brings to mind the sometimes tedious experience of going through airport security. The long lines and exhaustive checks can turn what should be a seamless process into a frustrating ordeal. This got us thinking about an analogy that perfectly encapsulates the traditional supplier engagement process versus the innovative solution offered by Trust Your Supplier (TYS).

Traditional Supplier Engagement: The Airport Security Experience

⛔ Long Boarding Time

Just as waiting in line at the airport eats into your travel time, onboarding a new supplier can be a lengthy process. Traditional methods involve multiple steps, approvals, and verifications, leading to delays that can impact your project timelines and overall efficiency.

⛔ Redundant Administration

Imagine filling out the same forms over and over again for every trip you take. That’s how repetitive and cumbersome traditional supplier engagement can feel. Suppliers often need to provide the same information to multiple customers, causing unnecessary delays and administrative headaches.

⛔ Tedious Security Checks

The rigorous security checks at the airport, while necessary, can be time-consuming and exhausting. Similarly, traditional supplier vetting processes are thorough but often slow and labor-intensive, requiring extensive background checks, certifications, and compliance verifications.

The TYS Pre-Check: Revolutionizing Supplier Engagement

✔️ Immediate Onboarding

With Trust Your Supplier, the onboarding process is as smooth as breezing through the TYS Pre-Check. Our system significantly reduces the time it takes to get suppliers up and running. Immediate onboarding means no more waiting in line or dealing with prolonged processes.

✔️ AI-Driven Profiles

TYS leverages advanced AI to create comprehensive supplier profiles. These profiles are automatically updated and maintained, eliminating the need for redundant paperwork and ensuring that all information is current and accurate. This automation leads to a more streamlined and efficient engagement process.

✔️ Pre-Certified, Ready-to-Do-Business

Just like having a TSA Pre-Check status gets you through security faster, our pre-certified suppliers are ready to do business right away. Suppliers in the TYS network have their information and questionnaires completed, so you can confidently engage with them without the usual delays and uncertainties.

Experience the Difference with Trust Your Supplier

Say goodbye to the hassle of traditional supplier engagement and hello to streamlined efficiency with Trust Your Supplier. Our blockchain-based solution ensures daily monitoring, and historical, predictive, and prescriptive risk insights, enabling trusted data exchange and workflow automation beyond traditional boundaries.

Enjoy a seamless and efficient process that keeps your business moving forward. Safe travels to all!


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April Harrison Blog, Digital Transformation, Supplier Information Management 0 Comments
WTISD thumbnail

Celebrating World Telecommunications Day!

Innovation thrives on collaboration. This #WTISD, we celebrate the power of collective, multi-stakeholder initiatives to drive digital innovation for the prosperity of all. 

At Trust Your Supplier, we’re proud to partner with forward-thinking companies like BT Sourced, who “Source for a better future.”  

“BT Sourced is committed to driving positive change in the telecommunications industry, and our partnership with Trust Your Supplier amplifies our efforts to create a sustainable supply chain for generations to come.” – Cyril Pourrat, CPO, BT Group

Learn more from Melissa Reddy, who leads Risk and Sustainability at BT Sourced, on our podcast, “Sustainability Strategies to Empower Teams & Suppliers”. Watch Now  

Learn more about WTISD 2024

#WTISD2024 #Sustainability #SupplyChain #Partnership #Telecommunications #SustainableSourcing #EthicalSourcing   

April Harrison Blog, ESG, Telecom 0 Comments ,
Dr. Epstein's Spider Map Highlighting TYS

TYS Remains Focused on Innovation and Value

We are thrilled to announce a significant achievement for Trust Your Supplier (TYS) – our continued positioning at the center of Dr. Elouise Epstein’s latest Spider Chart. In a landscape characterized by continual innovation and creativity, TYS stands resiliently at the center, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to excellence in procure tech.

At Trust Your Supplier, we recognize the evolving nature of supplier and risk management within the procurement sphere. Leveraging the transformative capabilities of blockchain technology, our platform offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to optimize supplier relationships and mitigate risks effectively.

Our distinguishing features encompass real-time monitoring, comprehensive historical data analysis, and forward-looking predictive insights. By integrating these elements into our platform, we empower enterprises of varying scales to operate with heightened transparency, efficiency, and risk resilience.

As proponents of progress within the procurement sector, TYS is dedicated to pioneering advancements that redefine industry standards. From empowering mid-sized enterprises to supporting multinational corporations, our blockchain-based solution catalyzes transformative change across diverse organizational landscapes.

Yet, our journey is far from over. With each milestone achieved and accolade earned, Trust Your Supplier remains steadfast in our commitment to driving innovation and fostering positive change within procurement.

We extend our sincerest gratitude to our esteemed partners, stakeholders, and industry peers for your continued support and collaboration. Together, we are forging ahead, challenging conventions, and shaping the future of procure tech with integrity and ingenuity.

Stay informed as we embark on this journey of progress and innovation. 

April Harrison Blog, News 0 Comments
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TYS Podcast S2E6 – Sustainability Strategies to Empower Teams & Suppliers

In our TYS Podcast episode, Sustainability Strategies to Empower Teams & Suppliers, we spoke with industry leaders from global organizations, delving into the intersection of sustainability, supply chain management, and the global economy. 

TYS’s Michelle Armstrong sat down with Lazar Armianov from EcoVadis, Melissa Reddy from BT Sourced, and Alyssa Caddle from Thermo Fisher Scientific, and at the heart of our discussion was the concept of sustainability and its significance in today’s business landscape. From education and compliance to technology and geopolitical challenges, our guests shared valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of sustainability within supply chains. 

One key takeaway was the importance of education and awareness, not only within our organizations but also among our suppliers. By ensuring that all stakeholders understand the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, we can foster a culture of sustainability that extends beyond borders and generations. 

Another focal point of the conversation was the need for collaboration and transparency throughout the supply chain. As companies navigate new global regulations and geopolitical shifts, it’s essential to prioritize ethical sourcing and supply chain integrity. 

Technology also emerged as a powerful tool in driving sustainability efforts. From AI to cybersecurity, our guests highlighted the role of innovation in creating more efficient and environmentally friendly supply chains. 

Based on the rich discussion, here are actionable insights for listeners: 

  • Prioritize education and sustainability initiatives within your organization 
  • Proactively address climate change and compliance challenges 
  • Embrace AI and digital technologies for risk management and supplier experience enhancement 
  • Foster supplier diversity and engagement for long-term sustainability 
  • Strike a balance between compliance and sustainability goals for impactful supply chain management 

As we look ahead, the path to sustainability will require ongoing collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to responsible business practices. By leveraging the insights shared in this episode, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come. 

April Harrison Blog, ESG, Pharmaceutical, Podcast, Telecom 0 Comments , , , ,

TYS Podcast S2E5 – Empowering Equality: Strategies and Insights for Advancing Gender Diversity

In our most recent podcast episode, we had the honor of speaking to Renee Ure, a pioneer in promoting gender equality. With over 25 years of experience in various leadership roles at IBM and Lenovo, Renee brings invaluable insights and experiences to the table.

Renee shares her journey, including the challenges and setbacks she encountered along the way. From defining success metrics to measuring progress through concrete KPIs, she provides practical strategies for promoting gender diversity and inclusion at all levels.

The significance of mentorship, sponsorship, and the role of male allies in driving female empowerment within organizations are also discussed.

We invite you to join us as we explore strategies and insights for advancing gender equality in the workplace. Let’s break down barriers and create a more inclusive future for all.

April Harrison Blog, Diversity, Podcast 0 Comments , , ,

The Evolving Landscape of Data Validation and Supplier Discovery: Human Expertise Meets AI

by Michelle Armstrong, TYS Global VP of Value Engineering

In the digital age, businesses seek efficiency and accuracy in their supply chain operations, particularly in supplier discovery and data validation. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents promising solutions, it is not a panacea. At Trust Your Supplier, we recognize the unique value of combining AI with the irreplaceable insights provided by in-country verifiers, ensuring that our clients receive the most reliable and contextually accurate data.

The Limitations of AI in Supplier Discovery
AI is powerful and capable of processing vast datasets to identify patterns and anomalies at speeds no human could match. However, its effectiveness is contingent upon the quality and structure of the data it processes. In regions with less standardized digital data or where legal constraints limit data accessibility, AI alone may falter, yielding less than optimal results.

The Human Element: In-Country Verifiers
At Trust Your Supplier, we enhance AI’s capabilities with the local knowledge and expertise of in-country verifiers. These professionals are fluent in the local languages and business practices and familiar with regional legal nuances that might affect data collection and validation. This human element ensures that the data you receive is accurate and fully compliant with local regulations.

Balancing AI and Human Insight
Incorporating in-country verifiers into our process addresses the gaps left by AI. For example, when supplier data changes—such as updates in tax IDs or operational addresses—our local experts can verify these changes promptly and accurately. This approach reduces the risk of outdated or incorrect data, a common issue when relying solely on AI, particularly in dynamic markets.

Looking to the Future
While AI continues to advance, reaching new heights of data processing capabilities, the path to perfection is long. At Trust Your Supplier, we are committed to staying at the forefront of technology while also valuing the indispensable human touch. Our blended approach prepares us for today’s challenges and also sets a robust foundation for integrating more sophisticated AI solutions in the future.

Why Trust Your Supplier?
Choosing Trust Your Supplier means opting for a service that understands the balance between technology and human expertise. Our clients benefit from a hybrid model that leverages the best of both worlds—cutting-edge AI backed by the critical oversight of seasoned professionals. This ensures not only the accuracy of the data but also its applicability and compliance, giving businesses the confidence to make informed decisions.

In the evolving world of supplier management, Trust Your Supplier stands out by offering an innovative and balanced approach. While AI is a powerful tool that will continue to improve, the current landscape requires a human touch to ensure the highest standards of data validity and reliability. Trust us to be your partner in navigating the complex, ever-changing world of supplier discovery and validation.

 

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April Harrison AI & Automation, Blog, Supplier Diversity, Value Engineering 0 Comments , , ,

Trust Your Supplier (TYS) Completes SOC Examinations for Fourth Consecutive Year

In the fast-paced landscape of business operations, the secure exchange of information stands as a cornerstone of success across all industries. Cybersecurity, confidentiality, and data privacy remain paramount concerns, particularly in the realm of document exchanges and data transfers. Trust Your Supplier (TYS), a flagship initiative under the purview of Chainyard, acknowledges the critical nature of these issues within its network of participants. To bolster this commitment, TYS and Chainyard proudly announce the successful completion of SOC 1 & SOC 2 Type 2 examinations for the fourth consecutive year with no exceptions, reaffirming its dedication to meeting the most stringent data security requirements.

The examination was conducted by A-LIGN, a technology-enabled security and compliance firm trusted by more than 4,000 global organizations to help mitigate cybersecurity risks.

What is SOC 2 report?
A SOC 2 report  addresses risks associated with the handling and access of data, and can be used by a variety of organizations of any size (e.g. SaaS, colocation, data hosting, etc.) Rather than a cybersecurity assessment that evaluates specific technical configurations, a SOC 2 report focuses more on how an organization implements and manages controls to mitigate the identified risks to the different parts of an organization.
The SOC 2 audit testing framework is based off of the Trust Services Criteria (TSC), which are used to identify various risks (points of focus) an organization should consider addressing. Based on the TSCs the organization selects to be in-scope, the third-party compliance and audit firm evaluates whether the organization has the appropriate policies, procedures and controls in place to manage the identified risks effectively.

In order to pass a SOC 2 examination and receive a letter of attestation successfully, it means an organization is addressing controls in areas such as information security, access control, vendor management, system backup, business continuity and disaster relief, and more.

Trust Your Supplier & Chainyard performs SOC 1 and SOC 2 audits on an annual basis and reports are available to current clients upon request and to potential clients upon execution of a non-disclosure agreement. If you are interested in viewing these SOC reports, please contact us.

April Harrison Blog, Data Privacy & Security, News 0 Comments ,

TYS Podcast S2E4 – Unraveling the Global Tapestry of Politics, Economics, and Supply Chains

In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate web of global politics, economics, and supply chains, unraveling the complexities that shape the landscape of modern business. Join us as we explore pressing questions and uncover insights that shed light on the evolving dynamics of the global risk environment.

The volatile nature of today’s global political and economic climate reverberates across industries, making it imperative for supply chain and procurement professionals to stay vigilant. Every shift in geopolitics or economic policy can send ripples through the supply chain, impacting everything from sourcing strategies to operational efficiency.

So, why does this matter for supply chain and procurement? Simply put, businesses operate in a connected world where disruptions in one region can have far-reaching consequences. Whether it’s trade disputes, sanctions, or geopolitical tensions, these factors can disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and affect business continuity.

Tracking these issues requires a comprehensive approach, leveraging a mix of data sources, analytics, and expert analysis. By monitoring key indicators, companies can anticipate risks and identify opportunities, enabling proactive decision-making.

To gain deeper insights into these challenges, we asked the experts at Prism about the emerging trends in global politics and economics. Watch our conversation with them and read our blog, co-authored by TYS and Prism, on how the Swiss climate ruling reshapes supply chains and risk management.

April Harrison Blog, Data Privacy & Security, Geopolitical Issues, Podcast, Risk & Compliance, Supplier Information Management 0 Comments , , , , , ,

Navigating Geopolitical Shifts

How the Swiss Climate Ruling Reshapes Supply Chains and Risk Management

by Michelle Armstrong, TYS Global VP of Value Engineering and George Coe, Prism Cofounder & Partner

On April 9, 2024, a Swiss Court determined that the Swiss government had a legal obligation to combat climate change, based on European Human Rights Law. The case will have significant implications for ESG and supply chains. 

This adds to a wave of climate litigation, against both countries and companies, but stands as a landmark ruling due to the use of human rights law broadly, and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) specifically, for which a precedent is now set for all 46 countries that are signatories. 

The implications go far beyond the direct ruling. TYS partner, PRISM, a geopolitical risk advisory firm, breaks down the issues for supply chain leaders to watch in three categories. 

Risk of rapid regulatory expansion: the ruling implies that governments have an obligation to take appropriate measures to meet their stated climate goals. Current policy in almost every country comes far short of stated climate goals, such as the Net Zero by 2050 targets set in most Western economies. Legal obligations to put in place policies that match stated goals would mean transformative new climate regulations that would require far larger changes to supply chains than current law. This could range compliance burdens like greater disclosures, but the ruling implies effort aimed more directly at cutting climate risk, making it more likely that direct supply chain costs would be imposed by policies that require renewables investments, more ambitious emissions reductions, reduction of high emissions imports, and other more fundamental changes. 

More countries: a range of other cases exist using human rights and other laws. Other countries, from France to Portugal to India and beyond must be watched for similar precedent-setting rulings that would expand the implications of this legal framework beyond Switzerland and the ECHR. 

Direct corporate lawsuits: the ruling accelerates the impact of climate litigation from activists, which has also been aimed directly at companies. It can be expected to boost efforts to sue companies directly for failures on climate change, creating financial risk to companies and their suppliers, if more lawsuits are successful. 

More broadly, the case could act as a catalyst for enhanced international cooperation. By framing climate action as a human rights imperative, it may lead to a concerted effort among nations to standardize environmental policies and regulatory frameworks, especially at a time when human rights and environmental goals are being pursued in tandem in supply chain regulations like the EU’s CSDDD. 

The case itself is a crucial moment in the use of litigation by climate activists, bringing together years of work at the intersection of environmental advocacy, human rights, legal strategy, and political dynamics. If a precedent has truly been set that expands to more countries, we can expect a rapid rise in transformative climate action, rather than just stated goals, in the coming years. 

Learn more about our TYS partner Prism.

Read more about the landmark Swiss case.

#TYS #Prism #ClimateLitigation #ESG #HumanRightsLaw #RegulatoryExpansion #CSDDD #Sustainability #GeopoliticalRisk 

April Harrison Blog, ESG, Geopolitical Issues, Risk & Compliance, Risk Management, Value Engineering 0 Comments , , , , ,