The pandemic and related supply-chain challenges amplified the need in industry for more innovative and collaborative ways of working with key suppliers. As a result, in 2021 LyondellBasell developed its Advancing Strategic Potential (ASP) program. This program aims to transform relationships with LyondellBasell suppliers to create industry shaping opportunities and win-win solutions across the value chain.
“The outcomes of our strategic relationships are critical for driving transformation toward the asset of the future, sustainability and circularity, customer excellence, intelligent supply chain and innovation development,” said Anup Sharma, LyondellBasell’s senior vice president of Global Business Services. “Through this program, we can drive innovation, co-create and build industry shaping solutions while generating differential value together.”
As part of the ASP program, LyondellBasell hosted its first Accelerating Potential Forum on Tuesday, April 26, in downtown Houston. Value generation, relationship building and finding win-win solutions are what brought more than 100 executives and attendees representing more than 40 supplier companies to participate. Discussions focused on sustainability, digital transformation and innovation in the industry.
The summit opened with remarks by Ken Lane, LyondellBasell interim CEO, and was followed by Sharma who provided the keynote focusing on the company’s digital transformation journey to advance competitiveness. Tom Siebel, CEO of C3 AI, shared his thoughts on cultivating tech ecosystems within the industry. Schneider Electric’s Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer Gwenaëlle Avice-Huet delivered her perspective on how companies can create a path for a greener future. Keith Ferrazzi, founder and chairman of Ferrazzi Greenlight, highlighted how organizations can change the ways in which they work with one another to co-innovate in a modern workplace.
This future focused forum wrapped with attendees gathering for dinner and listening about the future of space exploration from Space Center Houston President and CEO William T. Harris and former NASA Astronaut, Leland Melvin.
The objective of this forum with key suppliers was to foster thoughtful, cooperative conversations and improve relationships where both parties are committed to each other’s success.
“The basis of Advancing Strategic Potential is both parties win. We go to work every day to fulfill stakeholder expectations. If we can get the benefit of our suppliers’ innovation and enthusiasm, it will be the opportunity of a lifetime,” Sharma said.