Trent alumni Simon Spratley ’87 (Traill College) returned to Trent University as a guest speaker at Trent Durham GTA to share lessons from his career with Supply Chain Management students at the campus.  

As vice president of global operations at Intelcom Dragonfly, Spratley oversees supply chain and logistics operations across international markets. His role places him at the centre of a fast-moving industry where efficiency and people-focused leadership are critical to success.  

Speaking with Trent students, he stressed the value of early career awareness and intentional relationship‑building. 

“The best advice I would give to students that I didn’t know when I started, is to start now. Start being your own CEO now,” Spratley explains. “Start networking, start understanding who you want to work for, where you want to work, and start to cultivate relationships with those companies today instead of after you graduate.” 

A Foundation Built at Trent
Spratley’s career in supply chain management spans decades and reflects the growing importance of global logistics in today’s interconnected economy. At Intelcom Dragonfly, one of Canada’s leading last kilometre delivery companies, he helps guide global operational strategy while leading teams through growth and transformation. 

Spratley credits his time at Trent University with helping him develop the skills that continue to shape his leadership approach today. 

“The freedom to discover myself, to create, and to think open mindedly,” he reflects. “I think if I look back 35 years ago, those skills have probably served me well.” 

Watch the interview with Spratley to learn more about his perspective on the evolution of the industry, from technology to global demand and why supply chain management is an exciting and meaningful career path for students who want to lead change in real time. 

Learn more about the Supply Chain Management program offered at the Durham GTA campus. 

Discover more alumni stories and see where a Trent education can lead.