On Your Behalf by Julie A. Fream

On Your

Behalf

As we begin 2023, the OE supplier community is increasingly concerned that 2023 will be a continuation of the past few year – and the industry will not yet find the “new normal.” The industry has preserved through a numerous unprecedented issue during the past few years, including the global coronavirus pandemic, exploding transportation costs, numerous material shortages, labor issues, all while meeting the growing demand for new technology. These items weigh heavily on suppliers, and to frustrating many of them remain.

It is now time for suppliers to recognize that level of uncertainty and difficulty is the “new normal” for the industry. OE suppliers need to evolve their planning and operations to permanently account for a significantly increased risk level due to disruption and change. For many companies, this means rethinking product offerings, adapting business operations, and reskilling the workforce. For public companies, this also means educating board members and investors so they can better understand the new inherent industry risks.

Suppliers must not underestimate the magnitude of the changes necessary to be successful in this new environment. A business transformation of this scope requires a strong vision, consistent leadership and a collaborative effort from all parts of the organization. Regardless of your company’s many different internal processes, systems, and culture, a key element of success is a shared sense of the organization’s goals and direction, all while accepting a “plan B – or C or D” when the business situation inevitably changes.

MEMA and OESA are not immune to these changes. As such, we are realigning to better support the various vehicle supplier market segments that we serve. I invite you to click here to learn more. Additional details will be announced in mid-January.

OESA is excited to continue to serve the OE supplier community. We look forward to the new opportunities and challenges it will bring as we navigate the industry’s new norm.

As always, please feel free to contact me at 248.430.5963 or jfream@oesa.org.

Julie A. Fream President and CEO OESA