Humanitarian Supply Chain Management

Humanitarian supply chain management examines how supply chains can support preparedness for, response to, and recovery from humanitarian crises, with the goal of saving lives and alleviating suffering. Our research supports international organizations, UN agencies, and local actors in addressing operational challenges in complex and resource-constrained environments. We study topics such as interorganizational collaboration and interoperability, fleet management, supply chain resilience, supply chain localization, and the sustainability of humanitarian operations. Across these areas, we are interested in research that combines methodological rigor with practical relevance to address pressing real-world problems.

Managing Complex Humanitarian Operations in Crisis

Public Lecture with Jakob Kern, 8 October 2026

When? Thursday, October 8, 2026, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where? PER21, Room C130, Bd de Pérolles 90, Fribourg

Abstract:

Drawing on 25 years of leadership experience with the UN World Food Programme (WFP), Jakob Kern will offer a first-hand perspective on managing complex humanitarian operations in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Based on his experience as WFP Country Director in Syria and Emergency Coordinator for the Ukraine crisis, he will take students behind the scenes of humanitarian crisis management and explore what leadership looks like when decisions have to be made under extreme uncertainty, pressure and external threats.

The talk will explore how leaders set priorities when everything is urgent, make decisions with incomplete information, manage and motivate teams under stress, and remain focused on their mission in rapidly changing environments. Jakob will also reflect on the broader challenges of leading large-scale humanitarian operations and on lessons from an international career spanning operational, technological, supply chain and senior management roles.

Beyond humanitarian aid, the lecture offers insights for anyone interested in leadership, decision-making and building a meaningful international career. It will also consider how to navigate uncertainty, take responsibility and make an impact through professional choices.