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Raj Saran
Supply Chain Planning Intern at Formlabs - Purdue - Seeking Fall’22 Internship Opportunities
Professional Background
Raj Saran is a dedicated and skilled professional with extensive experience in supply chain management, data science, and analytics. Currently serving as a Supply Chain Planner at Formlabs, Raj has continually demonstrated his ability to optimize supply networks and enhance operational efficiencies. His educational background in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University coupled with a strong foundation in Civil Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology gives him a unique perspective on the intricacies of supply chain processes.
Before joining Formlabs, Raj made significant contributions to ACC Limited as a National Supply Allocation Specialist. In this role, he was responsible for analyzing demand and supply dynamics to ensure optimal allocation of resources. His analytical skills and expertise in data-driven decision-making allowed him to streamline allocation processes and support the company's overall supply chain objectives. Raj also held the position of Project Engineer - Supply Chain at ACC Limited, where he collaborated on numerous projects aimed at improving supply chain efficiency through innovative process improvements.
Raj’s career began as an Industrial Trainee at Larsen & Toubro, where he gained fundamental insights into industrial operations and project execution. This early exposure was pivotal in shaping his career trajectory and fostering a keen interest in leveraging data analytics to drive performance in supply chains.
Education and Achievements
Raj Saran’s academic journey is marked by excellence and a commitment to learning. He earned his Master of Science (MS) in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University, a renowned institution known for its rigorous engineering programs. This degree provided Raj with a deep understanding of systems optimization, operations research, and the analytical skills essential for tackling complex supply chain challenges.
Prior to his master's, Raj completed his Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Civil Engineering at the Vellore Institute of Technology, achieving an impressive aggregate of 8.46 out of 10. His strong foundational knowledge in civil engineering plays a critical role in his strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities in supply chain scenarios.
Technical Expertise
Raj possesses a robust set of technical skills that complements his experience in supply chain and logistics. His proficiency in statistical analysis is showcased through his command of tools such as Microsoft Excel and Minitab, enabling him to process data and extract meaningful insights effectively. In terms of data visualization, Raj is well-versed in Microsoft Power BI and QlikView, allowing him to transform complex datasets into user-friendly dashboards that aid in decision-making.
Programming is another area of expertise for Raj. Skilled in Python and R, he leverages these programming languages to conduct advanced analytics, automate processes, and improve efficiencies within supply chain operations. His knowledge of database management systems, including PostgreSQL and SQLite, further strengthens his data management capabilities.
Raj has also demonstrated a solid understanding of ERP systems, such as SAP and Oracle NetSuite, which are integral to modern supply chain management. His familiarity with project management software like Oracle Primavera aids in overseeing projects from inception to completion, ensuring that they are delivered on time and within scope.
Furthermore, Raj is a Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, highlighting his commitment to continuous process improvement. This certification is a testament to his expertise in identifying inefficiencies and implementing effective strategies to optimize processes, reduce waste, and enhance overall productivity.
Interests
Raj Saran has a genuine passion for various facets of supply chain management. His interests span a wide array of areas, including data science, analytics, logistics, warehouse management, and network modeling. He actively seeks to enhance supply-demand planning processes and is committed to fostering a culture of continuous process improvement within organizations.
Additionally, Raj has a keen interest in lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies, which emphasize maximizing value while minimizing waste. His dedication to project management ensures that he effectively collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to drive successful outcomes in supply chain projects. Raj's background in sales also enhances his understanding of market dynamics and customer requirements, enabling him to align supply chain strategies with business objectives effectively.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Raj has been instrumental in achieving significant milestones that reflect his ability to drive supply chain excellence. His role as a National Supply Allocation Specialist at ACC Limited saw substantial improvements in resource allocation efficiency, minimizing costs while ensuring customer satisfaction through timely deliveries.
At Formlabs, Raj has effectively balanced supply and demand challenges, resulting in increased operational efficiency and reduced inventory holding costs. His analytical and problem-solving skills have allowed him to identify key trends and patterns in data, leading to informed business decisions that have positively impacted supply chain performance.
Raj's credentials as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt empower him to lead initiatives focused on quality improvement and efficiency. His understanding of process optimization has proven crucial in implementing best practices across supply chain functions, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
In summary, Raj Saran is a highly accomplished supply chain professional with a strong educational background and extensive technical skills. His experience in various roles within supply chain management showcases his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Raj's ability to leverage data analytics and implement strategic process improvements positions him as a valuable asset in any organization aiming to enhance its supply chain operations.
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