Keeping Operations Running: a Conversation with our Supply Chain Manager

At APS – Advanced Printing Systems, the Supply Chain Department plays a key role in ensuring that materials, components, and products move efficiently throughout the entire production process. From supplier management to transportation coordination, the team works behind the scenes to keep operations running smoothly.

We spoke with Svetoslav Spassov, Supply Chain Manager, about the department’s responsibilities, the challenges of managing a global supplier network, and the importance of adaptability in an increasingly digital and sustainability-focused environment.

Our work is behind the scenes, but it is critical. Without it, operations stop.
Svetoslav Spassov

A Department at the Heart of Operations

As Supply Chain Manager, Svetoslav oversees procurement, logistics, planning activities, and supplier relationships. His team of around twelve people is responsible for purchasing materials, coordinating imports and exports, managing warehouse operations, and supporting production planning.

“Every day, our focus is on three priorities: ensuring materials are ordered on time, managing supplier performance, and coordinating deliveries to avoid disruptions.”

More broadly, the department’s mission is to ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing of materials while managing their flow from suppliers to final delivery through efficient purchasing and transportation coordination.

Managing Challenges in a Complex Supply Chain

According to Svetoslav, three major challenges shape the daily work of the Supply Chain team:

Cost fluctuations

Supplier delays

Maintaining reliable supplier performance

While cost and lead times remain important factors, supplier reliability is equally critical.

“It’s not only about getting materials at the right price and at the right time. Consistent supplier performance, especially in terms of quality, is essential.”

When disruptions occur, the team must react quickly by adjusting logistics plans, prioritizing critical deliveries, or activating alternative suppliers.

Responding quickly to Supply Chain Disruptions

Supply chain management requires constant anticipation and adaptability. Unexpected changes in supplier lead times, transportation schedules, or material availability can impact production planning if not addressed quickly.

To minimize risks, the APS Supply Chain team relies on a network of approved suppliers and closely monitors material availability. This approach allows the team to react efficiently, adjust logistics plans when necessary, and maintain continuity across operations.

This combination of preparation, flexibility, and coordination helps ensure that production activities continue smoothly, even when unexpected challenges arise.

The Future of Supply Chain: Digitalization and Sustainability

Looking ahead, Svetoslav sees two major trends shaping the future of supply chain management: digitalization and sustainability.

Digital tools are becoming increasingly important for managing supplier information, customer requirements, certifications, and component traceability.

At the same time, customers are placing greater emphasis on environmental performance.

“We see more and more requests related to sustainability, including carbon emission declarations, not only from APS, but also from our suppliers.”

As a result, supply chain teams are becoming increasingly involved in both digital transformation initiatives and environmental reporting requirements.

REQUEST A QUOTE

Finding Satisfaction in Problem Solving

For Svetoslav, one of the most rewarding aspects of the job is solving complex problems and ensuring business continuity.

“I enjoy finding solutions and making sure everything runs smoothly.”

He is also motivated by the direct impact the department has on the company’s overall performance.

“Keeping operations stable and seeing the impact of our work on the business is what motivates me every day.”

In Practice: Managing Risk through Supplier Flexibility

One of the Supply Chain Department’s key responsibilities is ensuring business continuity when unexpected disruptions occur.

To reduce risk, APS maintains approved alternative suppliers for critical components. These suppliers are regularly reviewed and validated, allowing the team to react quickly when a primary supplier faces delays or other challenges. Combined with close coordination between procurement, logistics, planning, and quality teams, this approach helps maintain production flow and minimize operational impact.

Keeping APS Moving Forward

Although much of its work happens behind the scenes, the Supply Chain Department is essential to the success of APS operations. By balancing cost, quality, delivery performance, and risk management, the team helps ensure that materials arrive where they are needed, when they are needed—supporting customers, production teams, and business growth alike.