Optimization Catalyst #008: Optimization Reimagined

How do strong digital and AI foundations unlock smarter optimization? 

Digital transformation is most powerful when it creates the foundation for smarter, faster, and more scalable decision-making. In this episode, Karan Gill, Head of AI for Supply Chain Optimization at Nestlé USA, joins David O'Keefe , Director of Alliance Americas at Gurobi, to discuss how Nestlé is leveraging digital infrastructure, optimization, and AI to generate measurable business impact across its supply chain.

The conversation explores how Nestlé’s transformation journey began with the creation of a centralized data lake that improved data quality, governance, and agility, enabling more reliable and timely analyses. Building on this digital foundation, the company redesigned its optimization models to support end-to-end manufacturing and distribution decisions, increasing analytical capacity by 50% while delivering three times more business value.

Beyond technology, the episode highlights the importance of strong collaboration between technical and functional teams, clear prioritization of high-value analyses, and the role of Communities of Practice in scaling successful initiatives across the organization.

This discussion offers valuable insights for leaders looking to combine AI, optimization, and digital transformation to drive operational excellence and long-term business impact.