Life at ZS

ZS harnesses AI and human insight for supply chain and manufacturing

By Kailah Peters

Oct. 21, 2024 | Article | 4-minute read

ZS harnesses AI and human insight for supply chain and manufacturing


ZS’s first-class record of achievement in driving value is distinguished by our people and culture. Together, we create sustainable advantages and innovations in supply chain management and manufacturing for various industries. Agile, adaptable and aligned in ambition, ZSers make it easier for clients and colleagues to tackle their most pressing challenges. And when it comes to improving supply chain and manufacturing, ZS leads with expertise that leverages data, analytics and technology.

Where passion changes lives



Decision analytics consultant Jose Quijano (JQ) exemplifies ZS’s commitment to excellence through his expertise in building resilient, client-focused supply chain and manufacturing operations. He brings more than a decade of hands-on experience in global supply chain management, encompassing inventory planning, procurement, distribution and materials management. With a strong foundation in actuarial science and advanced certifications from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), JQ has led supply chain transformations for Fortune 500 companies.

 

At ZS, JQ leverages his extensive industry knowledge and technical proficiency to deliver solutions that not only mitigate risks but also reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency. His approach balances human intelligence with AI, ensuring that the transformative power of AI is grounded in practical applications and tailored to each client’s unique needs.

“ZS captured my interest with its values and the measurable impact they deliver,” says JQ. “What solidified my decision to join ZS was the company’s culture of collaboration and innovation and the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry.”

 

What inspires him to build his career with ZS? JQ is particularly drawn to ZS’s commitment to empowering our people, which creates a supportive environment where team members can find a sense of purpose in their work and be recognized and rewarded for their contributions. “ZS stands out not only for the impact we deliver to clients but also for how we care for our people,” JQ notes. “This blend of professional excellence and genuine support is what inspires me to grow my career here.”

 

JQ credits much of his success—including a recent promotion—to his keen observations when working with clients. “Understanding what clients need goes beyond what they say,” he explains. “It’s about using my experience to assess the situation from multiple perspectives and uncover insights they might not see in their day-to-day operations.” This holistic approach enables JQ to deliver solutions that drive sustainable success for his clients.

 

He takes ZS’s core values—treat people right, get it right and do the right thing—to heart, especially as he gets to know his new team. As a hands-on leader, JQ’s focus extends beyond project delivery. He is deeply invested in building strong relationships with his team and fostering an environment where individuals feel seen and empowered. “Understanding the interests and experiences of the people I work with allows me to help them achieve their objectives, which, in turn, drives the results we need as a team,” JQ says.

 

JQ’s holistic leadership style and ability to balance technical expertise with a deep understanding of human dynamics sets him apart as a trusted adviser in the supply chain space.

 

As the supply chain landscape evolves with advancements in AI, JQ is at the forefront of integrating these technologies into client operations. “AI can vastly improve supply chain visibility and accuracy, but human insight remains essential to verify and interpret these insights,” he notes. His expertise in both realms ensures that ZS clients receive solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also practically applicable.

 

It’s the human touch ZS provides that makes all the difference for JQ. The dynamic nature of supply chain management requires adaptability, which is a quality JQ knows well, both professionally and personally. As a new father, JQ has balanced the demands of his career with those of parenthood. “My first son was born prematurely during a high-visibility project. ZS’s leadership fully supported me during that time, reinforcing the values that first drew me to the company. It’s not just about delivering results—it’s also about taking care of our people.”

 

His advice to others considering a career at ZS is to understand how our values align with your own.

 

“ZS is a company that truly cares for its people,” JQ concludes. “That is what makes my career here fulfilling and meaningful.”

 

Find out more about what it’s like to be a ZSer, and explore our open positions.

Life at ZS



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