News Archive
Alumni Spotlight: Stuart Kerr
TAMPA (June 8, 2020) --
Name: Stuart Kerr
USF Degree: Bachelor's degree in marketing with a concentration in supply chain management
Graduation Year: 2016
Employer: Saddle Creek Transportation and Logistics
Job Title: Operation Manager
Key responsibility: The financials, including billing, payroll, revenue and expenses
Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn
Q: How has USF helped you in your career development or your role with Saddle Creek Transportation and Logistics?
A: The supply chain management program at USF illustrated real industry-related scenarios through case studies, projects, process improvement planning, guest speakers and even games. My career in logistics and distribution is very textbook from all the classes offered in the program. Typically, most college courses offer a broad overview of the industry that you are studying; however, the texts from all my courses were brought to life once I entered the work force.
Q: What were some key transition hurdles and how did you overcome these challenges in your career?
A: A working challenge was when I was asked to supervise one of the most profitable accounts at Saddle Creek. Training was all on me. I got into the trenches with my associates and worked product alongside them. This assisted with understanding the processes and workflow. In turn, the associates came to respect me more. Earning the associates' respect is challenging, yet rewarding.
Q: What are key contributions/ successes in your company?
A: Being promoted twice within four years from supervisor to senior supervisor to operations manager were huge successes. Earning my Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification with a project that saves Saddle Creek $25,000 annually was another high point and reducing overtime percentage from an average of 40 percent to 10 percent also counts. I also assisted with the first robotic automation project at Saddle Creek.
Q: What advice do you have for current USF supply chain students?
A: Do not miss out on the CSCMP student organization. Guest speakers are full of useful information that will apply to your new career; plus you are going to start networking with supply chain professionals. Corporate tours are incredibly valuable and the comradery among your peers in an organization go much further than in the classroom. Take full advantage of the supply chain faculty. They come with real world experience and are extremely passionate about their industry