Reflecting on Two Decades and Welcoming Our Next CEO

By Abe Eshkenazi, CSCP, CPA, CAE

For 20 years I have had the privilege of leading ASCM. Now, as I prepare to hand that responsibility to a new CEO, I find myself reflecting less on any single accomplishment and more on what it means to say farewell to an organization that means so much to so many people. For our global community, this transition marks an exciting evolution — one designed to bring you even greater value, expanded learning opportunities and a passionate advocate for your career. 

I have always believed that leadership is stewardship. I was given the opportunity to lead an organization with a long history, and my goal was to leave it better than I found it. Today, I believe ASCM is stronger, its future is bright, and it is fully prepared for a new leader to accelerate our momentum. 

Like most associations, we have an official mission statement that describes what we do and whom we serve. But internally, I have always thought of our mission much more simply: “We develop people.” If we enable supply chain professionals, they become better at what they do. Their organizations perform better, which creates greater economic and social opportunities for the people and communities they serve. The same principle applies inside ASCM: When we invest in our staff, they perform at a higher level, and the entire supply chain industry is better served. That simple idea has been a common thread throughout my tenure. Organizations don’t transform themselves; people create the transformation. 

During my tenure, APICS became ASCM, with a broader mission, a larger global footprint and a clearer voice in a profession that makes the world work. Together with the board, we have expanded how we serve individuals, organizations and communities. We have navigated mergers, a rebrand, economic upheaval, a pandemic, geopolitical disruption and extraordinary changes in the profession itself. Through every shift, our focus has remained constant: giving you the frameworks, credentials and insights needed to navigate an increasingly complex landscape. 

Again, what makes me most proud is not any single program, merger or milestone. It is that ASCM is ready for its next chapter. And that is where Elizabeth Usher comes in. Please join me in giving Elizabeth the warmest welcome as she guides ASCM into an exciting new era. 

The next chapter will not look exactly like the last one; nor should it. Elizabeth will bring her own experiences, instincts and leadership style. She will build her own relationships with our board, staff, members and partners — and take ASCM to unique opportunities ahead. Under her leadership, you can expect a sharp focus on innovation, fast delivery of emerging supply chain tools and continued investment in the programs that support your professional growth. 

I want Elizabeth to succeed because her success will directly support yours. It means ASCM will become even more relevant, more global and more impactful. It will mean that the people we serve are better equipped to strengthen the supply chains, organizations and communities that depend on them. And it will mean that I have fulfilled the final responsibility of my tenure: preparing ASCM for what comes next. 

The chain continues 

Just as leadership is stewardship, so is membership. ASCM’s strength is built on the passion, insight and dedication of people like you. For our next phase to be our most impactful yet, Elizabeth and our team need your voice. 

Volunteering is how our global community passes the torch of knowledge, strengthens our network, and ensures our education and tools evolve alongside the industry. Whether you’re interested in shaping our Top 10 Trends in Supply Chain report, guiding our Instructor Advisory Team or helping maintain exam standards for the CSCP program, your contribution directly powers the progress of our entire profession. 

I encourage you to explore our current open roles and apply by October 15 to help ASCM pave the way forward.