Academic Symposium 2024

Reimagining Contracts for Evolving Supply Chains

Tuesday 3rd December - Wednesday 4th December | Online & free to all

The Academic Symposium, spearheaded by the WorldCC Foundation, aims to foster a collaborative environment where academics and contracting practitioners can converge to explore and identify new research opportunities within the broader context of supply chain networks and ecosystems. This symposium will delve into the evolving role of contracts in supply chains, emphasizing the need for adaptive and proactive approaches to contract management.

There is a groundswell of opinion that we must do things differently - and a fresh approach to contracts is an essential element in achieving change. The 2024 Symposium seeks to bring academics and practitioners together in a forum where they will turn theories into practice and identify a forward-looking research agenda.

Don't miss out! Register to join us virtually!

Secure your place at this inspiring event. Day One will feature a host of panel discussions and academic paper presentations. Virtual attendees will be able to access a special session on Day Two, which features the harvest of insights from the in-person hubs.

Reimagining Contracts for Evolving Supply Chains

This year's agenda bridges the gap between academia and industry by spotlighting key challenges and innovative solutions in contract management. With a line-up of leading academics and practitioners, the sessions feature real-world applications and research insights addressing global risks, technology's impact, and collaborative practices. Through paper presentations, engaging panels and discussions, this event connects research and practice, pushing the boundaries of what contracts can achieve and guiding future exploration in the field.

This FREE event is available in 11 LANGUAGES, with all virtual content available ON DEMAND, so register today to gain access to all the career enriching content available over the next 12 months. Don’t miss out!

World-renowned supply chain expert from NC State University, Rob Handfield, will lead a panel delving into the evolving landscape of global supply chains and how contracts can work to manage risks, foster innovation, and adapt to the disruptions brought by emerging technologies and global shifts.

Paper title: Sustainable competitive advantage in supply chains via the role of contracts
Presented by: Suvi Hirvonen-Ere, Experienced legal, commercial and contract management executive, Advisory Board Member, Doctor of Laws, World Commerce & Contracting Fellow

Moderated by:
Rob Handfield, Professor of Supply Chain Management, NC State University
Dr. Rajinder Bhandal, Lecturer in Management, Leeds University Business School
Kevin J Edwards, PVP Corporate Supplier Engagement, Bechtel Global Corporation
Daniel McLuskie, Corporate Manager of Subcontracts, Bechtel Global Corporation

In today’s supply chain landscape, clear and effective contract design is critical for improving performance and ensuring smooth flows of information. This session, led by Rob Waller from the University of Leeds, will bring together both academics and practitioners to explore how simplified, well-structured contracts can reduce disputes, enhance collaboration, and drive strategic alignment. By focusing on contract design, this session addresses a fundamental aspect of the supply chain that impacts efficiency and resilience. Join us to gain insights into how thoughtful contract design can support organizational goals and strengthen overall supply chain effectiveness.

Paper title: Contracts as co-created scripts
Presented by: Petra Hietanen Kunwald, University Lecturer/Business Law, Aalto University

Moderated by: Rob Waller, Visiting Professor, University of Leeds
Dr. Anne Ketola, Senior Researcher, Tampere University
Dr. Clive Rees, SVP Head of Global Supply Chain Unit, Fujitsu Limited
Hal Bretan, Contract Standards Executive in Residence, World Commerce & Contracting