Managing the semiconductor trilemma: A conversation with Dr. Roawen Chen, chief supply chain and operations officer at Qualcomm

The Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast

In this interview, Heidrick & Struggles’ Scott Bae speaks to Dr. Roawen Chen, the chief supply chain and operations officer of Qualcomm Technologies. Dr. Chen first defines the concept of a “fab” [fabrication facility] versus “fabless” semiconductor company, and explains how the management of the supply chain is nuanced between the two. He then shares what he calls the “semiconductor trilemma”—how leaders have to balance three competing KPIs: pursuing the most advanced technology, having the lowest cost, and having unlimited supply—and discusses the leadership capabilities he believes are critical to manage that trilemma. Throughout the conversation, he also offers his advice for leaders who are managing the current uncertain and volatile market dynamics as it pertains to the chip space, how he has seen the role of the supply chain and operations leader evolve, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic, and how he approaches the balance between developing talent internally and recruiting talent externally, particularly when conditions are changing so rapidly.

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