Panagiotis Kouleris

Panagiotis is a Capability Area Planning Leader at IKEA Supply AG in Switzerland, shaping global supply chain development. 

After earning his a BSc in Economics in 2002 and an MBA in 2003 from Kent, he began a career spanning logistics, sales, and project management before joining IKEA. 

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

My passion has always been in Supply Chain and the technology around the industry. In the beginning of my career, I had the opportunity to work for a manufacturing company specializing in warehouse equipment, there I gained diverse experience in Logistics, Sales, Quality, Procurement and Project management. Five years later, I joined the Inter IKEA Group. Until today I had the privilege to work on global roles moving in 3 different countries. More specifically, I have gained solid experience in the areas of Supply Chain Design & Planning, Supply Chain Operations & Supply Chain Optimization.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

In my current role, I ensure that the Capability Area Roadmap, budget & development portfolio which contributes to the strategic direction of the company. That requires a lot of planning and alignment with other Capability Areas but also with the business counterparts, Enterprise Architects, and the Digital Product constellation. I can say that my workdays are full of interactions and collaborations. I very much enjoy seeing ideas materializing into action and tangible development which I can later benchmark and assess in terms of contribution to the overall strategy.

Can you share a professional highlight from your career so far?

In the latest two roles and particularly as Business Development Leader & Project leader, I had the opportunity to be contributing into global digitalization & transformation projects. This is how I derive energy and inspiration but also further develop key leadership skills. My focus is on connecting organizations and people through managing backlogs & roadmaps but also onboarding and managing relations of key stakeholders to the change, ultimately co-creating value for the company.

How did your time at Kent help you achieve your current career?

After graduation, Kent continued to support my development through the Alumni Update Scheme, which allowed me to expand my knowledge by joining elective modules in my area of interest. Furthermore, it was through alumni networking that I connected with my current employer.

What advice would you give to our current/prospective students who are looking to get into the same line of work?

Networking is key, and the University is the perfect place to start. Combine the strong theoretical foundation from your studies with practical experience, whether that’s through an internship, a placement, or a year in industry. This blend will give you a solid springboard for launching your career.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Kent?

Campus life was great! Especially during the spring/summer months, the University premises offered fantastic opportunities for societies and fellow students to meet and socialize.

Is there anything that you would do differently if you could repeat your time at Kent?

Not really, but I would eagerly do it all over again!

Are you still in touch with other Alumni or academics?

Yes, it’s an active part of my life. I am privileged to have made valuable friends from all over the world with which we are in regular contact. With some, I had the chance to collaborate with during my career, which is great. I am a proud carrier of the “University of Kent brand”, taking every opportunity to bring it up and use it in my career.

What are your future ambitions?

IKEAs vision, to create a better everyday life for many people, really encapsulates what we are striving for. The Vision, paired with the IKEA Values constitute elements that provide me the assurance to continue my IKEA journey. The opportunities and career diversity that one can find in IKEA is unique. Therefore, I am looking forward to many more years of exciting opportunities and roles.