Getting Started with ERP Panel‎ Discussion

November 28th, 2023 ~

Panel of Experts moderated by: Ali Kirtley, Marketing Director at PT Coupling ‎

Zoom

‎Panelists will dive into the key factors that propelled ‎them to start their ERP expeditions. The ‎discussion will focus on the specific reasons each panelist ‎decided to go down this route and ‎touch on some strategies they employed to adapt to the challenges and transformations ‎‎encountered along the way. They will also touch on the objectives guiding this initiative. Panelists ‎will offer their insights to smooth the way for those thinking of initiating their own ERP journey so ‎they can do so with ‎precision and purpose.‎

Key takeaways:

  1. Understand the value of streamlining business operations by integrating various functions and enhancing data visibility. The panelists will describe the role of ERP in improving decision-making and the need for flexibility to adapt to changing market dynamics.
  2. Understand the importance of the process to selecting the right ERP system for an organization’s specific needs as the panel will highlight the potential for ERP to drive efficiency, cost savings, and competitiveness in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

Intended Audience:  Manufacturers and Distributors – specifically targeting people looking for the next why and how to start with their ERP journey. 

Meet the Panelists:

Alexandra “Ali” Kirtley, Marketing Director for PT

Ali has nearly five years in the manufacturing industry paired with 10 years of experience in the communication field with an emphasis in education. She is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring all aspects of internal and external communication, digital marketing, brand awareness, and product marketing.

She received her Bachelor of Mass Communication from Northwestern Oklahoma State University (2015), followed by her Master of Education in Adult Education Management and Administration (2017). 

Bill Horrigan – VP of Sales & Marketing for Tribute, Inc.

Tribute, Inc. is an ERP software provider exclusively for the hose, rubber, and hydraulic industry. 

Horrigan graduated from Cleveland State University in the summer of 1987 and initially embarked on a job search, anticipating a career in selling products. However, fate had other plans and approximately six months into the job search, Horrigan stumbled upon a remarkable opportunity at a hose and hydraulic shop based in Akron, Ohio. Little did he know that this would be the starting point of a remarkable journey.

At this shop, he uncovered an extraordinary proposition. The company had developed software for their internal use and had ambitions to share this innovative tool with hose distributors across the United States. When asked if he was interested in joining this endeavor, Horrigan wholeheartedly said yes.

Fast forward nearly 36 years, and he finds himself reflecting on an incredible journey that has taken him to over 2,200 hose distributors throughout North America. These distributors ranged in size from just 2 employees to as many as 450. It’s been an amazing adventure, and he is thrilled to share his experiences and insights the NAHAD community today.

Chris Schwab –  Director of Fluid Conveyance Sales, Danfoss Power Solutions, Americas Region

Chris is the director of fluid conveyance sales for Danfoss Power Solutions in the Americas region.  He has spent 24 years of his career in our industry, serving in various roles increasing in responsibility from engineering, product management, and now sales management.  As a leader within Danfoss, he is now a member on the team responsible for rolling out one ERP system globally within the company.

Kristen Fail – VP of Acquisition Integration, ARG Industrial

Kristen Fail is an executive member of ARG Industrial’s board of directors, actively involved in the company’s growth strategy.  In her current role as Vice President of Acquisition Integration, Kristen onboards and integrates newly acquired and green field branch locations. Elevating and evolving new branches to represent ARG Industrial business practices, core values and culture.  Working with ARG Industrial for nearly a decade, she brings experience in senior leadership, branch management, operations and finance.

Dan Banks – Founder, Domani Strategies

Dan Banks is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience working with software focused on wholesale distribution. As the founder of Domani Strategies, Dan provides distributor-focused consulting services, helping businesses to implement the right technology strategy to differentiate themselves and outpace their competition. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by distributors and the importance of implementing the right tools and applications to differentiate and succeed, Dan is committed to working with his clients to help them develop, implement, and succeed in their digital goals.

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