REAL ROI:  A PRACTICAL CONVERSATION ON AI IN SUPPLY CHAIN

Expectations for AI in the supply chain run high, yet there is little clarity about what the successful projects did differently. Four panellists from Australian manufacturing and IT solutions providers discuss data challenges, trust and security, practical tools, and governance — and where AI genuinely pays off. Networking with industry practitioners and light refreshments follow the panel.

Date:  Thursday 8 October 2026
Time:  6.00pm – 8.30pm (AEST)
Venue:  Minerva Partners, Level 18, Suite 1/60 Albert Road, South Melbourne
Cost:  Members – $15  /  Non-Members – $30

Registrations close at Noon on Wednesday, 7 October 2026
LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE

ABOUT THIS EVENT

This ASCLA thought leadership event brings together four panellists from Australian manufacturing and IT solutions providers for a candid, jargon-free discussion about what works.

The panel covers four areas that commonly derail AI initiatives: AI awareness and data challenges, where information sits trapped across disconnected applications; trust, security and uptake, including hallucination risk, data privacy and workforce resistance; practical AI tools already in use for writing, meetings and customer support; and data risks and governance, covering ownership, accountability and review cadence.

Attendees will leave with a clearer view of where AI genuinely pays off, how to map risk tiers before shortlisting solutions, and what to ask before committing budget. Networking with industry practitioners follows, with light refreshments provided.

PRESENTERS

	Jorge Mendoza – Co-Founder & CTO, Minerva Partners Jorge has extensive experience building and deploying BI, big data, data warehouse and AI solutions, products and platforms. He is a business operations leader, solutions consultant and dedicated problem solver whose focus has always been on leveraging the power of data and information to help global enterprises enter new markets, create efficiencies and drive innovation through sound decision-making. He partners with organisations to modernise connected business planning and enterprise data environments through AI-driven solutions and advanced analytics.
	Bahman Khalaj – Supply Chain Manager, ANCA Bahman is Global Supply Chain Manager at ANCA, a global high-tech manufacturing company, leading Procurement, Planning, Logistics and Warehousing. He has delivered a number of AI-enabled projects across different areas of the supply chain, with a strong focus on solving real-world business problems. His approach is deliberately practical: using AI to improve accuracy, cut manual effort, and move supply chains beyond automation towards intelligent, data-driven decision-making.
	Sheran Hettiarachchi – Senior Product Manager, Pronto Software Limited Sheran is a Senior Product Manager at Pronto Software Limited, where he leads the product roadmap for artificial intelligence and business intelligence capabilities within the Pronto Xi ERP platform. He brings over two decades of experience in the ERP sector, having previously worked as an Application Engineer at ATS Global and as a Software Engineer at Dilmah. His current role spans product lifecycle management and the integration of AI and analytics across Pronto Xi.
	Roydon D’Souza – Senior Engineer, Sutton Tools Roydon D’Souza is a Senior Engineer at Sutton Tools, specialising in automation, reliability engineering, lean manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Roy has played a key role in the company’s digital transformation, integrating AI, advanced manufacturing technologies and data-driven decision-making into factory operations. His focus is practical application: using technology to improve productivity, precision and long-term competitiveness.

MODERATOR

Serena Moreno
Serena is an industry leader with 20+ years’ experience spanning AI, engineering, technology, supply chain and the circular economy. She explores Industrial Innovation through Operational Reinvention, examining how emerging technologies, intelligent systems and new operating models can reshape how organisations operate, create value and compete.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

Leaders and practitioners across supply chain, operations, manufacturing and IT, along with business owners, transformation leads, and anyone with an interest in the field.

Event Access & Registration
To help us manage event access and catering, all attendees must be registered in advance. Please note that walk-ins will not be permitted on the day.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made 5 days prior to an event will receive a full refund.