Seraph.

Operational due diligence is crucial for successful manufacturing acquisitions. It goes beyond traditional financial reviews, uncovering hidden value and identifying risks. Expert teams provide industry-specific insights, benchmarking, and a roadmap for immediate improvements and sustainable growth. The best due diligence teams don't just avoid risk; they see where risks can become strengths. Comprehensive operational analyses can set the stage for rapid post-acquisition value creation. This approach helps acquirers make informed decisions and drive profitability. https://lnkd.in/ep52ZdhC

It's amazing to see more manufacturing startups getting funded. To transition from investor-funded to customer-funded, they need to move from prototype to production. Fortunately, they can learn from EV and auto tech companies that reached mass production, and those that didn't. Our latest article explores how eVTOL and hard tech startups can manage growing pains. Learn strategies for scaling, process development, and effective supplier evaluation. Download our industrialization checklist as a tool to review with your team. https://lnkd.in/eNaFuPdi

Ocean freight is experiencing disruption, with rates increasing on major routes. Despite decreased orders, limited capacity and many canceled voyages are causing prices to rise. This mismatch between supply and demand creates market instability, forcing shippers to use expensive spot market options. The industry faces logistical challenges. Port congestion leads to long ship wait times and cargo accumulation. A shortage of empty containers adds to these issues, making it difficult for shippers to obtain necessary equipment. These problems are reminiscent of the post-pandemic crisis, indicating reduced supply chain efficiency. Geopolitical tensions worsen the situation. Especially in the Red Sea, as we've previously shared, conflicts have required ships to take longer, more expensive routes, further straining limited capacity. These detours increase transit times and fuel costs, pushing rates per nautical mile to high levels similar to those seen during the pandemic. This week marks the highest FBX Global Container Index since Sept 2022 but remains substantially off the peak of February 2022, when the index was above $9,800. Unfortunately, no relief is in sight for this year.

A month after the event, we are still thrilled with the outstanding turnout for the 2024 Seraph Operations Excellence Awards. On Thursday, June 6th, 2024, the Seraph team celebrated the second annual Seraph Operational Excellence Awards alongside leaders from the automotive industry. The event welcomed over 140 guests representing more than 50 companies. This year's highlights included a keynote address by Jan Griffiths, CEO of Gravitas Detroit, and presentations by the winning students from the Manufacturing Excellence Leadership Program. Explore an overview of our memorable evening! https://lnkd.in/gg3gw74p #SeraphAwards #OperationalExcellence #celebrationlceremony #manufacturing #awardwinners #thankyou #logistics #humanresources #operations #quality #bestoverall

“Freedom is the open window through which pours the sunlight of the human spirit and human dignity.” - Herbert Hoover   Today, we celebrate the courage, change, and bold vision of our founders. Their pursuit of independence removed barriers and allowed new industries to flourish, setting the stage for America's pivotal role in global manufacturing.   To our American colleagues celebrating today, may freedom always guide and inspire us to strive for better. Seraph. #4thofjuly #independenceday #2024 #excellence

We are pleased to announce the promotion Alexandra Lipsky and Harrison Catlin have been promoted to Consultant at Seraph. In addition to their exceptional work for clients, they have made meaningful contributions to Seraph's systems and capabilities including: 📊 Alex helped hone our rapid deployment of the Managing Daily Improvement (MDI) system, enabling us to transform client operations on the shop floor and immediately drive the right behaviors. 🔎 Harrison re-vamped our quarterly auto reports, curating new sources, and developing clearer visuals. This work helps our clients and colleagues get a better view of the dynamic industry. To get our latest report and sign up for the next distribution in August visit seraph.com/subscribe

Seraph is pleased to announce our membership in Medical Alley, as we continue to grow our MedTech practice. Learn more about how Seraph. helps medical device manufacturers at seraph.com/medtech.

"Airbus is facing persistent specific supply chain issues mainly in engines, aerostructures and cabin equipment." Last night's guidance from Airbus indicated they will produce 30 fewer aircraft this year (770 vs. 800) and they pushed out the A320 family ramp-up 1 year. This will mean billions not flowing into suppliers. Seraph. Managing Director Jack Caccioppo recently shared our view on opportunities to improve across the aero supply chain. https://lnkd.in/eitMnxD5 It's possible to break these persistent setbacks.

Despite record-high airline travel and strong customer demand, manufacturers are struggling. Beyond the obvious headlines, a perfect storm of challenges is brewing: excess inventory is straining balance sheets, while operational discipline is eroding. This is compounded by a significant exodus of skilled personnel, leaving frontline managers ill-equipped to handle increasing demands. Meanwhile, HR departments are misaligned, focusing on cost control rather than the crucial task of talent development and retention. In our latest piece, Seraph. Managing Director Jack Caccioppo discusses solutions: ·      Cultivating talent ·      Strengthening operational discipline with simple tactics ·      Optimizing inventory management ·      Getting value from data (that actually shows up on the bottom line) Read here: https://lnkd.in/df_UUHw5 #AerospaceManufacturing #OperationalExcellence #IndustryInsights

This year, our event gained a new moment of shared insights. As we strive to continually enhance our awards ceremony experience, we are proud to have featured a distinguished keynote speaker. Jan Griffiths, CEO and Founder of Gravitas Detroit, led us on a deep dive into the transformational leadership needed for the future of the automotive industry. She shared insights from her interviews and a surprise from our assessments! Known for her dynamic and engaging speaking style, this was an opportunity not to be missed—even if you couldn't attend! Thank you, Jan, for enriching our evening and for all the dedicated work that you and your team put into delivering this amazing moment! Watch a sneak peek below, and catch the full ceremony: https://lnkd.in/gzX4eADA #seraph #keynotespeaker #leadership #automotivesupplier #automotiveoperations #recognition #operationalexcellence #manufacturing #authenticleadership