Operations and Supply Chain Logistics Research
Our research group tackles complex supply chain issues using diverse methods. We impact academic, managerial, and policy realms.
Operations and supply chain logistics are fundamental to our economy and society.
Strategic management of supply chains drives resilience and innovation. This type of management is necessary, particularly due to external factors, including:
- exogenous shocks such as Brexit and Covid-19
- societal issues. This includes social value creation and the identification and elimination of modern slavery
- global challenges such as climate change, ageing, and digital transformation
Research themes
Our research examines multi-level supply chain problems. We incorporate individual, organisational, and network levels of analyses. We adopt a broad range of research methods, including:
- case studies
- process studies
- content analysis
- structural equation modelling
- analytic hierarchy process
- modelling methods
Through vigorous research, we aim to influence academia, practice and policy.
We work with organisations on pressing supply chain and operations management problems. We develop interventions to inform and improve practice and policy. Our research is frequently published in academic and trade journals.
We provide support and resources to various groups, such as:
- subject group members
- colleagues
- students
- external research collaborators
This helps them to further develop supply chain and operations research.
Sustainable supply chain
A truly sustainable supply chain does not just drive economic prosperity. It also meets social demands while safeguarding the environment. Our research focuses on the critical pillars of sustainable supply chain management:
- design
- organisation
- coordination
- control
Specifically, we explore sustainability from various key perspectives, including:
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- green innovation
- circular economy practices
- collaboration, integration, and relationship development within supply chains
- building trust at the supply chain, organisational, and interpersonal levels
- optimising sustainable manufacturing, project management, and supply chain systems
Digital transformation
Digital technologies are revolutionising business operations, enhancing efficiency, performance improvement, and customer engagement. However, profound change is needed to harness all the potential benefits. This needs to occur across all aspects of operations and supply chain management. Our research delves into a range of industries, including:
- healthcare
- manufacturing
- energy
- food service organisations
It covers critical areas such as:
- digital work and workflows
- human-centric digital transformation
- industry 5.0 advancements
- supply chain management in the metaverse
- digitally innovative supply chain solutions
Performance improvement
To improve organisational performance, we need to tackle complex decisions across operations and supply chains. Our research supports the creation, evaluation, and execution of high-quality decisions. We use a variety of methodologies, including:
- surveys
- modelling
- nature-inspired algorithms
- interviews
- case studies
- design science
- simulations
We address challenges across several domains:
- lean and agile operations
- supply chain finance
- resilience and risk management in supply chains
- logistics, transport, and supply chain systems
- intelligent transport systems
Transformational change
We are committed to:
- driving transformational change in business and supply chain operations
- fostering innovation
- creating a meaningful societal impact across various sectors, including both manufacturing and services
Our key areas of focus include:
- non-profit operations management
- quick commerce and ultrafast hyperlocal deliveries
- regional challenge-based transformation initiatives
- supply chain analytics
- business ecosystems development
External engagement and collaboration
We thrive on robust collaborations with a diverse range of partners and stakeholders. These include industry leaders, government agencies, non-profit organisations, and academic institutions. Our partnerships are essential in ensuring the relevance and applicability of our research.
Engaging with industry partners provides valuable insights into current challenges and emerging trends. This enables us to tailor our research to address real-world needs. Together, we share knowledge and co-create solutions. We drive technological advancement and societal progress.
