Pinak Shah

AVP System Materials Management, North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, Bethpage, NY 

Joined AHRMM in 2012

1. Please share your history of involvement with AHRMM committees/task forces/activities:

I have been a member of AHRMM since 2007. I have not, as of yet, served on an AHRMM committee or task force.

2. Tell us more about your specific job responsibilities in your company/hospital/organization:

As Assistant Vice President of Northwell Health (formerly North Shore-LIJ Health System), I am responsible for Health System Purchasing, Integrated Distribution Center (IDC) and Materials Management. My role includes contract negotiations and the development of strategic relationships with direct manufacturers and distributors. I also lead supply chain expense reduction, inventory improvement, and product standardization initiatives.

3. How many years have you been in your current role; how many years in supply chain?

I have been employed with Northwell Health since 2007. I have 20+ years of experience in supply chain. Prior to my work at Northwell Health, I was with the healthcare consulting practices of Deloitte and PeopleSoft.

4. What aspect of your job do you like best?

I especially enjoy strategy, and working on automation and processes. I like to envision the big picture, knowing what the culmination of a project will look like, and then put a plan in place to achieve or arrive at that endpoint. At Northwell Health, I designed a model for centralized distribution, determined the method of PAR management, and implemented a POU system. This implemented model includes pick-to-voice, radio frequency devices and forecasting tools along with seamless integration between ERP and warehouse management systems.

5. What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

All challenges come with opportunities. The reduction in supply chain expense and process improvements are the challenges which I enjoy the most.

6. Who is your mentor/key influencer, and why?

My late father was my mentor. He was an accomplished entrepreneur and businessman.

7. What AHRMM board/committee/task forces/activity/experience stands out/is most memorable for you?

I haven’t been able to fully engage with AHRMM in this capacity, but I would be interested in opportunities that address processes and strategy.

8. Why did you join AHRMM/what keeps you coming back?

AHRMM has been an excellent resource of supply chain information and dealing with industry issues.

9. Name one AHRMM tool you “cannot do without”:

I enjoy reading the AHRMM newsletter.

10. What are key AHRMM resources you use to leverage your supply chain processes?

• Supply Chain Strategies & Solutions articles
• Case studies
• White papers    

11. What is the best part of being involved in your professional association?

Networking, and getting insight to future supply chain needs. I enjoy giving presentations and sharing my successes and challenges with my peers. I have benefited greatly from hearing what supply chain colleagues are doing in their organizations. Networking allows us to exchange ideas and see what is working for others in healthcare and hear about other industries as well.

12. What is something most of your peers don’t know about you?

I am a graduate in Engineering and earned my M.B.A. in India. I am on the faculty at Hofstra University in the Frank G. Zarb School of Business. I currently teach operations and supply chain management.

13. In my free time I like to:

Golf and spend time with my family. I also enjoy reading, including, but not limited to, books and articles on supply chain management.

14. Personal Motto or Favorite Quote:

Work smarter, not harder.