Supply Chain, Operations SVP Talks Agility and Collaboration in Leadership

As a former Brigade Commander, retired Army COL Fred Hannah understands what it takes to be an effective leader. As the Exchange’s senior vice president of supply chain, operations, he leverages lessons learned during his distinguished military career to effectively lead a team of logistics professionals that collaborates and innovates to achieve mission success.

“True leadership isn’t about controlling every outcome—it’s about equipping people to adapt, learn and grow together,” Hannah said during an Oct. 16 LINK (Leaders Inspiring Networks & Knowledge) presentation.

Being a Resource Provider

“We all have different experiences when it comes to leadership and operating in uncertain environments, but it is always about making sure others are equipped to be adaptable and flexible,” he said.

“Imagine if every single decision in the Exchange required Mr. Shull’s approval. He sees himself as a resource provider, so he empowers people across the organization to make timely and impactful decisions. That is what grows trust.”

Strategic Agility

“We operate in a volatile market,” he said. “Our supply chain is shaken up on an almost daily basis and shoppers’ preferences shift constantly, so that environment forces adaptability and flexibility.”

Hannah stressed the importance of training and ensuring those who work with him are fully equipped to identify and resolve challenges as they come along.

“Every associate is a leader and should anticipate challenges before they happen.

“I think back to my military experience. I always thought that if we ran scenarios time and time again, I would have Soldiers well trained to do their mission—I had the motto: ‘Have No Soldier Cry Out: Had I Been Properly Trained.’”

Vision as a Leader

“A leader cannot ask their workforce to do something that they’re not fully bought in on,” he said. “Building valuable collaboration and communicating exactly what needs to be done and why is key.

“People can tell when a leader is being halfhearted and just following suit. A leader must be committed themselves to whatever they’re trying to drive for change.”

Building Agility in Your Own Career

“We should always be looking up and out,” he said, stressing the importance of knowing what is going on throughout your organization.

“As a platoon leader, I wanted to know what was happening at the brigade level. If I was a battalion commander, I wanted to know what was happening at the division level and so on. I often tell my VPs, ‘I won’t try to do your job,’ because if I’m doing their job then neither of us are progressing and growing.”

“Missions Succeed Because People Adapt Together”

“If we can continue to grow as an organization, continue to lift up our fellow teammates and embrace our leaders, then I think that grows agility,” he said.

“I’ve always had folks pouring into me—I’ve always received great guidance, coaching, mentorship and advocacy along the way and that’s why I know to not make any position bigger than it is, because without the folks that were a part of my village in the past and passing that on, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

“If we all shed just a small light, then collectively we’re going to send off a huge projection reflecting the Exchange.”

LINK aims to strengthen workplace culture, boost morale and reinforce the value of connection. Each month, a senior leader hosts a session via Teams aligned to key business priorities.

Active associates who were unable to attend Hannah’s presentation can view it here.