Daniel M. Krassenstein, Global Supply Chain Director at Procon Pacific, brings over four decades of experience spanning across continents and industries. From sourcing in Asia to managing logistics across the Americas, Daniel has cultivated a unique perspective on supply chain resilience and innovation. In this interview, he shares insights into his career, the evolving landscape of supply chain management, and the critical skills needed to navigate the future.
How did you get into your current role (your prior background, experience, etc.)?
I have always been intrigued by the intersection of languages, cultures, and global trade. Prior to my current role, my career took me to Taiwan, Indonesia, China, Panama, Mexico, and the US, where I managed product sourcing, trucking, and ocean carrier logistics. In 2008, while serving on the board of the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, I came across a job posting for someone with global supply chain experience who spoke Mandarin. Right place, right timing – the rest is history.
What is your current role and responsibilities?
As Global Supply Chain Director, I oversee all activities outside of North America, covering vendor identification, qualification, pricing, order expediting, logistics, and finance. My teams in Shanghai and New Delhi support these functions. We rely heavily on a trusted 3rd party quality control inspection company and a couple of key freight forwarders that all act as our eyes and ears on the ground throughout India (our main sourcing origin).
How does a typical workday look for you? What time do you wake up? Do you have any morning routine?
My routine has evolved over the past 15+ years with Procon Pacific. Early on, I was based in Shanghai, spending Mondays and Fridays in the office and traveling to factories Tuesday-Thursday. After shifting production to India, I relocated to Los Angeles, traveling quarterly to India. Now, I am based in Lisbon, Portugal, allowing me to manage overlapping time zones with HQ in Chicago, India, and China. A typical day starts at 7 a.m. and can extend until midnight.
What are the biggest challenges you face on a day-to-day basis? How have you addressed them?
Challenges change daily – it feels like a game of whack-a-mole. Production delays, price changes, or logistics bottlenecks are common issues. Our resilience lies in quickly identifying and resolving problems faster than competitors. For production delays, we monitor sewing lines, worker productivity, and schedules closely – often catching potential delays before the factory does. Preparation is key.
What software or tools are you most excited about right now? Any that you are implementing or testing?
We’ve improved two areas through technology – our purchase order management system and information sharing. Automating PO management has reduced manual work and errors. I also use SmartSheet, which I learned about during my master’s at USC Marshall. It functions like Google Docs but is more customizable and bypasses firewalls without needing a VPN.
What is your take on AI? Is Gen AI or AI already impacting your supply chain operations?
I haven’t incorporated AI into my workflow yet. While I understand the basics, I haven’t found practical ways to make it enhance my day-to-day operations.
Q7: How do you prioritize sustainability and ethical practices within your supply chain operations?
Ethical responsibility is essential in global supply chain management. During quarterly audits, I personally inspect every supplier’s facility – covering worker safety, age verification, overtime records, and plant conditions. I pay particular attention to ventilation and exhaust systems in areas involving hazardous materials like paint.
What are the most important skills for supply chain executives today? How do you develop them?
Awareness and agility are crucial. You need to detect and respond to disruptions without hesitation. Staff must feel safe reporting problems without blame. I compare it to a basketball player – always on their toes, ready to pivot at a moment’s notice. Supply chain leaders must operate in the same way.
What trends will impact the supply chain profession in 2025?
Expect disruptions and polycrisis – predictable global trade is no longer guaranteed. The pandemic, geopolitical conflicts, cyberattacks, and extreme weather have reshaped supply chains. Companies must run simulations and prepare staff to make quick decisions with limited information, much like battlefield commanders navigating uncertainty.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to work in supply chain management?
Supply chain management is dynamic and rewarding. As President of the CSCMP Portugal Roundtable, I regularly encourage students to consider this career path. The industry offers roles in logistics, production, analytics, and more – all working harmoniously to manage the flow of goods. It’s an exciting field full of opportunities for those eager to learn.
Daniel M. Krassenstein is the Global Supply Chain Director at Procon Pacific with over 40 years of experience managing international supply chains. You can connect with Daniel on LinkedIn, through his Chain.NET profile, or reach him directly at daniel.krassenstein@outlook.com.
