The "Art & Science of Execution" Roundtable Series brings mid to senior-level operations leaders for small, invitation-only lunchtime discussions with MBA and EMBA students. Designed as intimate conversation opportunities, these sessions provide students with direct access to practitioners actively leading operational functions across industries. Each roundtable focuses on career pathways within operations, exploring how professionals have built their careers, and the skills, experiences, and trade-offs that shape operational roles.
February 2026
Kapil Dev Bansal
Associate Partner, McKinsey & Co.
Wednesday, Feb. 25th, 2026
Kravis 810
Kapil Dev Bansal, Associate Partner at McKinsey & Co., joined the Deming Center to discuss how AI is transforming supply chain strategy and operations. Drawing from his consulting experience across industries, he also shared practical advice on skills students should be developing to stay competitive in an AI-enabled world.
March 2026
Glenn Steinberg '91
Former Principal and Global Supply Chain Leader, EY
Wednesday, Mar. 4th, 2026
Kravis 370
Glenn Steinberg '91, Former Principal and Global Supply Chain Leader at EY, joined the Deming Center to discuss modern global logistics and strategic career growth. He addressed how pandemic-era disruptions have forced companies to diversify manufacturing away from China, and cautioned against chasing AI as a "shiny object" without a clear business problem to solve. Glenn also advised students to build cross-functional experience, cultivate genuine professional networks, and use emotional intelligence to lead organizational change.
Ashley Paczolt '24
Senior Director, Central Operations, Reddit, Inc.
Monday, Mar. 23rd, 2026
Geffen 380
Ashley Paczolt '24, Senior Director, Central Operations at Reddit, Inc., joined the Deming Center to discuss insights from her leadership career across major technology platforms. Drawing on her experiences at both Reddit and LinkedIn, she discussed both the advantages and challenges of navigating small versus large organizational environments. Ashley offered practical hiring advice by breaking down her interview process and outlining the specific qualities she looks for in candidates, while also reflecting on her personal management style and the growing impact of AI on modern business operations.
Leila Jalai '12
Senior Vice President, Global Planning & Inventory Management, David Yurman
Tuesday, Mar. 31st, 2026
Geffen 430
Leila Jalai '12, Senior Vice President, Global Planning & Inventory Management at David Yurman, joined the Deming Center to share insights from her diverse professional journey, focusing on strategic career development and navigating transitions between industries. A major takeaway from the discussion was the critical importance for future leaders to become familiar with policy and its direct impact on business operations.
