Navigating the Tides of Change A Conversation with Özgür Mutlu, Head of Supply Chain at Wellspect, Turkey

In the industrial city of Kazan, just a short drive from Ankara, Turkey, Özgür Mutlu orchestrates and manages the supply chain of Wellspect’s second largest production site.  

Together with a team of ten dedicated professionals, he oversees a global process that begins with the purchase of raw materials and ends with the transport and delivery of medical devices and consumables to customers in countries around the world. 

“It is far more than sourcing and logistics”, says Özgür. “We’re not just managing orders; we’re nurturing a pipeline that connects customers, suppliers, and that upkeeps our operational excellence,” he explains. 

Supply Chain is a Journey of Conscious Choices 

Asked about the increased expectations on businesses to step up their environmental and social obligations, Özgür smiles and says that his 16 years in supply chain have enabled him to witness first-hand how the tides of change have influenced supply chain management.  

In his view, the journey towards a responsible supply chain is one of conscious choices and continuous improvements. “Getting the best price remains table stake, yes, but now we also want socially and environmentally responsibly sourcing while maintaining top quality,” he emphasizes. Adding that the requirements are increasing as time goes by.  

Forecasting the future, Özgür says he sees a landscape of constant change. “The supply chain world is evolving, just like we are. We’re becoming the next version of ourselves and so is the world of supply chain.” he reflects. 

Forecasting the Unpredictable 

Sourcing all compliant material to eventually be able to manufacture and deliver medical devices that are clinically reliable and price competitive, is no piece of cake. Because working in supply chain, you will always be at the mercy of a third-party (e.g., suppliers or transport companies) as well as the whims of nature,” explains Özgür who goes on to say that your supply chain must be bulletproof. You must always have a backup plan and be ready to adapt to the unexpected. Any loopholes will risk your business continuity. 

“It all boils down to honoring the commitments you have made as a business. If you have for example promised your customers in Iceland a delivery, that delivery must go through even if the famous Icelandic volcano temporarily disrupts air transports (true story!). And if your main supplier’s factory has burned down, you need to scramble for the material quantities you need from your secondary suppliers, and you need to that fast while doing your due diligence on the suppliers.” adds Özgür.  

Pushing for Positive Change 

Asked about where Wellspect ranks compared to other companies in Turkey, Özgür says that Wellspect has been a frontrunner when it comes to responsible supply chain management. Wellspect’s influence extends now beyond its immediate operations.  

Wellspect’s unwavering commitment to high social and environmental standards, has raised the bars for the suppliers it is working with across the world.” explains Özgür.  

 “You could say we’re not just adapting; we’re leading the change towards sustainability,” Özgür states proudly. “But even in Turkey, where social and environmental sustainability isn’t yet on everyone’s lips, we’re witnessing a rapid rise in awareness and action. So if you lay low, you will miss out quickly. Stepping up and acting as a catalyst for positive change is the way to go.” says Özgür.    

Spillover to family life 

Özgür’s commitment to responsible and ethical conduct, spills over into his personal life. He says he sees similar values in the younger generation, which stands out as incredibly passionate about the environment and social responsibility. This also includes his eight-year-old daughter. Seeing her dedication to making a difference gives him hope that the future is in good hands with such conscientious young leaders.