Employee Spotlight: Scott Gowan

Tell us about yourself and how long you’ve been with Optimal Dynamics.

My name is Scott Gowan and I’m a Senior Director on our Solutions Engineering team. I joined Optimal Dynamics back in March of 2022 and live in Naperville, IL. I’ve been in the Supply Chain industry since 1990 in a variety of positions.

Can you summarize your job in one sentence?

My primary focus is to support our customers who are using our Plan solution which allows them to optimize their freight network while simulating the impact of changes to operations in a digital twin sandbox environment. I leverage my industry experience and assist them with their strategic analysis initiatives.

What inspired you the most to join Optimal Dynamics?

I had been at my previous employer, a global supply chain consulting, analytics, and market intelligence firm for over 19 years and had started to wonder if there was another challenge out there for me. A former coworker who was with Optimal Dynamics reached out to me, offered a chance to join the team here, and it felt like the right move. Finding a new opportunity in a similar field with people I respect and enjoy working with is ideal.

What do you like best about our company culture?

The ability to reach out to literally anyone within the organization. I also really like and respect the fact that everyone is always willing to help each other.

What is unique about what we do at Optimal Dynamics?

At Optimal Dynamics, we are bringing technology to a segment of the logistics industry that has been overlooked and underserved for a long time.

What is your favorite part of your job?

Variety – I believe my experience in this industry allows me to add value at many different levels within the organization. I enjoy interacting with the various groups/teams we have here at Optimal Dynamics.

How does your work impact our product, and, therefore, the industry?

I think my work helps to make our Plan solution better. Whether it's assisting with testing new functionality, troubleshooting issues or being involved in design conversations, I believe my background and experience allow me to impact our solutions in a positive way allowing our customers to test the impact of strategic business decisions before implementing them.

What have been your biggest accomplishments on our team, and what was the impact on the product/company?

Being part of the direct team that has rolled out our Bid Manager solution to our customers. With my past experience and industry knowledge, I’ve been able to help customers gain deep insights into their bidding process and RFP responses.

How have you grown professionally while on our team?

While it may not be a new skill necessarily, I have remembered what it's like to be part of a larger team who works together to achieve goals. In my most recent role at my previous company, I was siloed and worked mostly with very small project teams. Here at Optimal Dynamics, I have a role in the company as a whole, the progress we have made and the direction we are headed.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Spending time with my wife and two boys while I still can (ages 18 & 20). I’m a sports fanatic, especially college sports (Michigan State) and enjoy watching games on TV and in person as well. I also enjoy playing golf, walking my dog, hiking and biking.

Can you share a hidden talent that no one knows about you?

I feel like I’m a sneaky good cook. I started cooking back in college and haven't stopped since. I bought a “Big Green Egg” many years ago and use it year round.

What’s the best advice you can give to someone who wants to work at Optimal Dynamics?

Be open to new ideas and different ways of doing things. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

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