Electronica 24: IMI's New CEO Lou Hughes on Strategic Focus, Streamlining, and Regional Excellence

EMS@C-LEVEL

What strategic moves can help companies navigate the complex global manufacturing landscape amidst geopolitical upheavals? Join us as we uncover the transformative strategies IMI is employing, led by our insightful guest Lou Hughes, who recently transitioned from a consultant to CEO. Lou offers a fresh perspective on shifting away from a China-centric model, emphasizing the significance of regional operations in Mexico, the Philippines, and Eastern Europe.
Discover how IMI is harnessing competitive labor rates and skilled workforces to adapt to changing market conditions, including downsizing in China and closing a US facility and investing further in Mexican operations. Lou’s insights into the operational excellence of sites in Serbia and Bulgaria highlight the agility and strategic location necessary to face future challenges head-on. Lou also waxes lyrical about the work being done in their facilities in the Philippines and the availability of a young talented workforce.
Our conversation further explores the intricate world of electronics manufacturing services (EMS) and the crucial role of a skilled sourcing team. Learn how digital tools are enhancing sourcing efficiency amid the challenges of a high inventory environment and volatile supply chains. We tackle the evolving dynamics of supply chain management in the semiconductor industry, highlighting the need for strong distributor relationships and strategic collaborations to maintain a competitive edge. Lou sheds light on how changes in geopolitical climates and the rise of Eastern silicon production are reshaping the industry. This episode provides valuable insights and practical solutions for navigating the future of global manufacturing and supply chains, as well as an update on the strategy at IMI.
EMS@C-Level at electronica 2024 was hosted by IPC (https://www.ipc.org/)

Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com).
You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Chapter

1. Electronica 24: IMI's New CEO Lou Hughes on Strategic Focus, Streamlining, and Regional Excellence (00:00:00)

2. Global Manufacturing Footprint Strategy Evolution (00:00:08)

3. Supply Chain Management Challenges in EMS (00:09:29)

4. Navigating Changing Supply Chain Dynamics (00:15:22)