Michigan State University launches new partnership to drive supply chain innovation and train future leaders
Michigan State University (MSU) has launched a new partnership to better equip researchers with tools to translate their findings into actionable strategies for businesses and other stakeholders.
The collaboration involves MSU AgBioResearch, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the College of Natural Science, and the Broad College of Business. This initiative will also train future leaders in agriculture and natural resources sectors, with a focus on supply chain resiliency.
Ian Olson, an expert in supply chain resilience with over 20 years of experience at major corporations such as McDonald’s, has been appointed as MSU’s executive in residence for supply chain resiliency. Olson will lead efforts to bridge the gap between research outcomes and practical business strategies.
“This is a significant step forward in MSU’s mission to encourage scientists to transform their research into businesses and actionable solutions,” said Eric Hegg, dean of the College of Natural Science.
“Our faculty are engaging in groundbreaking research that could truly change the world, but many don’t have the experience needed to take the leap into the business world. This partnership will help them translate scientific discoveries into real-world action.”
A central objective of the partnership is to create new opportunities for collaboration between researchers, businesses, and government agencies. This includes leveraging research results to develop strategies that can be applied across various sectors, including corporate partners and agricultural organisations. Another key goal is to create a curriculum focused on supply chain resiliency for undergraduate and graduate students at MSU.
Olson will take charge of these curriculum development efforts and work closely with scientists to transform their research into practical strategies. He will also lead efforts to generate innovative research funding opportunities and partnerships.
“Ian’s extensive experience in the corporate sector and utilising his vast network will help to set future research direction and generate new collaborations, partnerships and opportunities for MSU,” said George Smith, director of AgBioResearch. “This is a unique position that prioritises innovative ways of thinking about the future of research and how our colleges partner to differentiate MSU.”
With leadership experience at McDonald’s, Darden Restaurants, and Ford Motor Company, Olson brings a wealth of expertise to the role. His focus at MSU will be on connecting research to real-world applications, particularly in sustainability and agriculture.
“It’s an honour to be joining a great team at MSU, and I’m thrilled at the prospect of exploring new opportunities to demonstrate how MSU can be a source of actionable innovation and intelligence,” Olson said. “Building on the incredible research to date, I believe MSU can be the global benchmark of developing inclusive and integrated approaches that support a thriving agricultural and natural resources system.”
Olson will also serve as co-director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at MSU. The centre promotes sustainable agricultural practices such as soil health, water management, and biodiversity. He will work alongside faculty members Jason Rowntree and Bruno Basso to advance the centre’s mission and strengthen the agriculture supply chain through partnerships with farmers, ranchers, and corporations.
Olson’s previous role at McDonald’s involved leading global supply chain sustainability initiatives. His efforts contributed to implementing sustainability strategies that reached millions of customers daily. He has also been recognised with several industry awards, including McDonald’s Circle of Excellence Award.
“I look forward to listening and learning as much as I can in the coming months,” Olson said. “Working together, we should accomplish this by driving impact locally, influencing nationally, and being recognised globally.”
