Blockchains for Supply Chains

There is increasing interest in blockchain technology as a way to improve supply chain visibility and security, both internationally and domestically.

This seminar will explore what blockchain technology can and cannot achieve for supply chains, where the technology is most applicable, and where alternative solutions would be more appropriate.

To help us navigate through these complex issues, Max Soyref, Director in KPMG's in Innovation, Solutions and Ventures division will play the role of protagonist. Over the last three years, Max has led the development of KPMG Origins, a blockchain-based data sharing platform that helps global trading partners codify trust for more streamlined interactions across organisations and borders.

He has extensive experience in helping organisations transform their business models using emerging technologies across supply chain, agriculture, financial services and infrastructure and construction sectors. Max has a PhD in Business Information Systems from the University of Sydney with the focus on cybersecurity, as well as a Master of Commerce in Finance/Supply Chain and Logistics Management.

Jonathan Kempe from Verifai will play the role of antagonist. Jonathan is a Founder/CEO with over 20 years’ experience as a systems administrator across a broad array of disciplines. He has held a number of diverse roles from senior positions in large corporates; founding and running several businesses; holding trusted positions in nationally accredited NFPs and NGOs, and working in an Australian Defence Force endorsed satellite communications provider.

As Founder and CEO of Sydney-based supply-chain technology company, Verifai, Jonathan engages with the complexities of supply-chain functions and dysfunction on a daily basis. Verifai deploys unique technologies that protect assets at rest and in transit, through the deployment of physical Seals and Sensors, paired to a cloud-based data-analytics platform.

Jonathan Kempe speaks and lectures globally, actively contributing to a variety of forums on a range of emerging technologies: IoT, biometrics, the protection of critical infrastructure and trends in global supply-chain. Jonathan is a NSW Cybersecurity Ambassador, certified in Maritime Cybersecurity through Lloyds Academy, and was recently appointed to the VCARE Academy’s supply-chain Education and Research Practitioners Board. Jonathan is also the host of the Let’s Talk Supply Chain Asia Pacific podcast, where he has the privilege of engaging with practitioners and prominent industry voices from the local region and across the world.