083_Leading Through Change: Kevin Gordon on Healthcare Supply Chain Excellence

Send us Fan Mail Host: Jarvis T. Gray, The Quality Coaching Co. Guest: Kevin Gordon, VP of Supply Chain, Grady Health System Episode Highlights Leadership Mindset: Kevin shares his guiding principles: “To whom much is given, much is required,” and never asking his team to do what he wouldn’t do himself. Career Journey & Supply Chain Kevin describes transitioning from roles in food & beverage and retail to healthcare supply chain at Grady. He discusses the wide-ranging scope of supply chain, including equipment, procurement, contracts, and social impact. Pivot to Healthcare: The move into healthcare was inspired by the desire for a steadier schedule, leading to a fellowship that revealed the 24/7 nature of healthcare—but ultimately proved to be a worthwhile decision. Defining Excellence: Building a results-driven, best-in-class supply chain team has been central to Grady’s recent recognition. Kevin credits success to assembling a strong team and focusing on best practices, rather than external accolades. Technology & AI in Healthcare: Discussing current trends, Kevin points to technology and AI as game changers, especially for supply chain processes like contract management and procurement, emphasizing that AI should enhance—not replace—human roles . He gives practical examples of how AI can save costs and minimize errors. Leadership Lessons: Two pivotal stories: Choosing staff safety over operational loss when facing a hazardous situation in a previous job Learning from a micromanager what not to do as a leader, building a leadership “bucket list” of do’s and don’ts. Influences & Mentors: Kevin Gordon emphasizes the importance of a strong leadership network and calls out multiple mentors from each stage of his career who provided key opportunities and guidance. Opportunities & Challenges: Opportunity: Leveraging technology and improving supply chain processes remain critical for healthcare’s future. Challenge: Political instability, changing regulations, and moving financial targets make strategic planning difficult, especially in supply chain (e.g., tariffs, government funding). Developing Future Leaders: Kevin Gordon describes creating an undergraduate internship program at Grady for exposure to non-clinical business roles in healthcare. Personal Why: His commitment to improving healthcare was galvanized by negative experiences his father faced as a patient, inspiring Kevin Gordon to do his part to improve patient care, even in non-clinical roles. Connect with the Guest LinkedIn: Kevin D. Gordon Grady Health System: Visit their website or follow on LinkedIn. Internship Program at Grady Paid, 9–10 weeks summer internships in finance, IT, supply chain, HR, facilities, and other non-clinical areas. Applications open between Thanksgiving and winter break; final project presentation to health system leaders. For more information, check Grady’s career page or contact Kevin Gordon on LinkedIn. Is your healthcare organization ready to excel with Lean Six Sigma? Take our quick Readiness Assessment to uncover strengths and improvement opportunities for quality, safety, and efficiency  Start Now: Lean Six Sigma Readiness Assessment Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast for more insights into achieving healthcare excellence.

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