Wade Wickus: CEO & Founder of Supply Chain Secret Sauce

Early Years at SYSCO

Groundwork and Growth

Wade's remarkable career began at SYSCO, where he spent a formidable thirty years. The first twenty years were dedicated to the Sysco Distribution Center Level, covering an extensive range of responsibilities, including Sales, Marketing, Sourcing/Procurement, Branding, Warehouse Operations, Building Construction, M&A, and Logistics. His roles in logistics covered parcel, last mile, inbound, and van, showcasing his ability to manage and optimize complex supply chain processes.

Strategic Leadership

Transitioning to SYSCO Corporate Headquarters for the subsequent ten years, Wade honed his expertise in Supply Chain Strategy Consulting for 25 Distribution Centers (DCs) across the United States and Canada. His leadership in logistics centralization, inbound logistics systems/TMS, and financials & KPIs for all inbound PO’s logistics, underscored his strategic vision. Wickus managed inbound logistics load planning for 20,000 shipments a month, overseeing $700M in logistics spend and achieving $12M in optimizing logistics for major supply chains, including notable clients like Hilton and Marriott.

Making a Mark with Hunt Brothers Pizza

Strategic Innovation

Wade's journey continued as he joined Hunt Brothers Pizza, the world's #4 pizza brand, for five years. His tenure here was marked by significant contributions to Supply Chain Strategy, Procurement/Sourcing, Manufacturing, Last Mile Distribution, Logistics, New Construction, Branding, Technology, and securing Government Tax Incentives TIFF’s.

Venturing into Consultancy and Startups

Pioneering Digital Transformation

Wade ventured into consultancy and startups, spending two years as a consultant and one year launching a tech startup. He created a Product Information Management Database on AWS servers, assisting companies through digital transformation. His consultancy extended to logistics, parcel, and warehouse operations with EBTH.com for national expansion, and he is currently leading supply chain strategy for Uprising Food, Inc, Steeped Coffee, and IAM Dairy Distributing.

Speaking Engagements and Publications

Sharing Knowledge and Expertise

Wade has shared his insights and expertise through various prestigious platforms. From presenting at the 2012 Momentum about optimizing networks with Manhattan Logistics TMS, to discussing the total cost to serve at the 2018 SCOPE Chicago, his presentations have enlightened many in the industry. His involvement in the CSCMP Annual Edge Conference, BWG Strategy Sessions, and his podcast "Supply Chains…The Secret Sauce" for business, highlight his commitment to education and innovation in supply chain management.

Volunteer Work and Personal Life

Giving Back to the Community

Wade's commitment to community service is evident through his volunteer work. He has served as a board member for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America in Westbend, WI, the Second Harvest Food Bank of Southern Wisconsin, and the Urban Ninja Foundation in Lexington, KY. These roles underscore his dedication to making a positive impact beyond his professional endeavors.

A Life of Balance and Passion

Outside of his professional and volunteer commitments, Wade is a 4th Degree Black Belt in Aikido, showcasing his discipline and dedication. His passion for kiteboarding, tennis, basketball, golf, and being a Packers fan, reflects a well-rounded personality that values balance, health, and team spirit.

Wade Wickus's journey through the realms of supply chain management, strategic consultancy, and community service showcases a career built on innovation, leadership, and a deep-seated commitment to improving every environment he's part of. As he continues to lead and inspire in the supply chain world, his story remains a beacon for aspiring professionals in the industry.