Industry Insights - Manufacturing and Distribution 3 min read Q1 2026In this first edition of the year, we explore the shifting landscape shaping manufacturing and distribution. From escalating OT security risks to the growing impact of AI and ongoing modernization efforts, leaders are balancing new challenges with significant opportunities. Inside, you’ll find insights from this year’s Top Risks and Opportunities report, guidance on strengthening OT resilience, and more.Subscribe to quarterly insights Trending Now The Journey Ahead: Talent & Transformation in Manufacturing Join Protiviti for this on-demand webinar series exploring the evolving threat landscape impacting the manufacturing and distribution industry. Discover strategies leaders are using to navigate change, drive transformation, and strengthen operations on the shop floor and beyond. Watch Now Protiviti Spotlight Industry 4.0 and beyond: Addressing cyber, talent and AI opportunities in manufacturing and distribution Read the new Top Risks and Opportunities insight to learn how manufacturing and distribution leaders are prioritizing investments, modernizing operations, and positioning their organizations for the next wave of transformation.Read the full report Manufacturing’s OT Security Challenges: Rising Threats, Legacy Risks and the Path to Resilience Manufacturers are prime targets for ransomware and OT cyberattacks. Legacy systems, IT/OT convergence, and supply chain risks make the threat even greater. Learn how to protect your operations and build a resilient security program before it’s too late.Read more Learn more about Protiviti: BLOG | INSIGHTS | WHO WE ARE Top Industry Reads ERP’s Next Chapter: Shaping Value With AI ERP is evolving from a system of record into a driver of real time insight and enterprise value. Discover how embedded AI in modern platforms like SAP S/4HANA is transforming finance, supply chain and beyond, and what it takes to build a roadmap that turns AI ambition into measurable results. Read more When AI Readiness Meets ROI Reckoning Our latest analysis of our three AI Pulse surveys reveals a clear pattern: companies that break out of pilot mode and scale strategically are 3x more likely to exceed ROI expectations. Explore what it takes to turn AI from a perpetual experiment into a secure, scalable growth engine. Read the insights Succession Planning: Preparing For The AI-Fueled Future Of Corporate Finance As AI rapidly reshapes corporate finance, CFOs face a critical question: who will lead the function tomorrow? Explore how automation is transforming talent pipelines, operating models and leadership development and what finance leaders must do now to prepare for an AI enabled future. Read more Transformation and Technology Modernization Survey Are you a C suite executive? Protiviti is gathering insights on organizational transformation and tech modernization. Share your perspective in a 12 minute survey. Take the survey before March 31! Take the survey Topics Risk Management and Regulatory Compliance Business Performance ESG/Sustainability Artificial Intelligence Industries Manufacturing and Distribution Transportation & Logistics
