How businesses can navigate changes in tariff policies from tms’ SVP of Supply Chain Management

As American businesses navigate changes in tariff policies which have disrupted supply chains across the globe, companies are looking to diversify by exploring new suppliers.
tms’ SVP of Supply Chain Management, Christina Slaughter, spoke with Supply Chain Strategy to share the key considerations companies should keep in mind when selecting a potential new supplier. In the article, Christina emphasizes that decisions should not solely be based on cost alone, but consider other factors such as logistics, infrastructure, sustainability goals, and government regulations. Businesses should also look to leverage and maintain existing supplier relationships throughout the process.
Through thorough desk research, questionnaires to prospective suppliers, tours of factories, and leveraging local knowledge that includes the know-how of employees and partners, businesses can build up a detailed picture of potential new suppliers before signing on the dotted line.
tms helps businesses proactively prepare for changes in tariff policies through Country of Origin Diversification (COOD), which reduces dependency on a single country, ensuring a more resilient and adaptable supply chain. Christina and her global team drive innovation and efficiency for our clients by overseeing product sourcing, supplier relationships, and compliance, enabling companies to manage shifts in supply chain operations and optimize their manufacturing strategies.
Read more of Christina’s insights on Supply Chain Strategy.
Biography
Christina Slaughter, tms’ Senior VP, Global Supply Chain & Operations, has deep end-to-end supply chain knowledge built over a career spanning 25+ years. A strategic and creative thinker, she is adept at managing effectively in a dynamic, highly competitive and often challenging environment.
A high energy leader, she is passionate about developing and advancing the team members she works with. Her passion for new business integration is matched by her ability to deliver effective collaboration.
Christina built extensive hands-on experience in sourcing, planning, logistics, manufacturing and retail management in a variety of previous roles, which include Principal Business Program Manager for Microsoft and Director of Store Delivery at Starbucks. She joined tms in 2023.
