Cristina Radu is on a mission to democratize mathematical optimization. As an expert in supply chain optimization, she’s known for making complex models transparent and accessible to both users and consultants. Through her platform Optimization4all and engaging content across channels, Cristina is building a community that bridges the gap between theory and practice.

In this interview, she shares her journey, insights, and passion for bringing clarity to the black box of optimization.


How do you introduce yourself to a potential new client?

I am a supply chain optimization expert. I design and build tools using mathematical optimization. These tools are often seen as a black box. I open that box and bring clarity and trust—ensuring the tools effectively support planning processes.

If someone at a pub asks what you do, how do you explain it?

I’m a mathematician. I write the equations companies use to optimize their manufacturing and distribution flows.

How would you explain to a passerby that AI doesn’t have all the answers?

(Gen)AI is like a generalist, while mathematical optimization is a specialist. AI is the house doctor; optimization is the brain surgeon. Different contexts require different professionals.

You have a large LinkedIn following—what do you think draws people to your content?

Because I open the black box—not just for users, but also for implementation consultants. They often work with a UI without understanding the model’s formulation. By sharing my knowledge, I don’t lose professional value—I create value for others.

Your mission is to democratize mathematical optimization—why is that important to you?

Mathematical optimization has an awareness problem, despite its high value.

Someone once asked me: “What if you open all the black boxes and everything becomes open source—who do you think will use them?”

Maybe not many will “jump” on it, but for those who want transparency, it’s a real opportunity.

Your mission is to democratize mathematical optimization—how are you making that happen?

I create clear and friendly content, targeted to the supply chain ecosystem: key users, managers, implementation and business consultants.

You started by sharing content on LinkedIn but are now active on many more channels. What led to that expansion?

I offered free hands-on supply chain optimization classes. I expected 10–15 participants, but within days, 1,000 people signed up.

I realized this kind of content is in demand. I started with live sessions and am now working on a 12-video series (six are already on YouTube, @optimization4all). Topics include production planning, campaign optimization, and network optimization solvers. We also have an app where people can practice.

I also launched a series called Tales of Optimization & Entrepreneurship to address questions about freelancing and to show non-experts how resourceful mathematics can be in everyday life.

OR practitioners clearly find value in what you share. How would you describe the specific need you're addressing?

Books are full of models, but applying them in the real world is a different story. What works for 10 products in a book doesn’t scale to 100,000 in industry. I share practical expertise and solver tips that you don’t find in books.

You’ve built a strong community by generously sharing insights. What are you most proud of in that work?

I see it in the 17-person team we’ve built in our expertise hub. People feel more confident to follow their passions—even when those don’t align directly with their jobs. We’ve created a space where people can express themselves through their work. Seeing that positive impact in their lives makes me truly grateful.

You launched Optimization4all—what inspired you, and what gap does it fill?

In simple terms, it’s a catalog of resources—and we made it very pretty .

But it also has the potential to become a meeting place for the OR ecosystem.

We plan to host debates with professionals, organize networking for freelancers, “ask the expert” sessions, and create guides for companies interested in optimization but unsure where to begin.

What would success look like for the website?

Success would mean the entire OR ecosystem—professionals, vendors, and companies—coming together to implement pro bono optimization projects in developing countries to help with healthcare, energy, transportation, education, and more.

Who is the website for, and how would you encourage AIMMS users to get involved?

Our motto is: We meet you where you are. That means there's something for everyone: technical content, games, debates, non-technical videos, expert support for your projects, and more.

Our goal is to increase awareness of the societal benefits of mathematical optimization. We offer friendly content and a collaborative, inclusive space.

We welcome any materials or suggestions—and if you have ideas but need help creating them, we’re happy to support.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about mathematical optimization?

In supply chain, one big misconception is that the math is too difficult for users to understand. I disagree. The math reflects supply chain concepts—if someone understands supply chain, they can understand the math.
They don’t need to build solvers, but understanding what’s behind them is crucial for tool adoption.

What trends in optimization and AI excite you the most right now?

I’m excited that we now have nonlinear solvers—we no longer need to linearize all supply chain problems.
As for AI, I hope we can use it to clean and fix data inputs for solvers, and to help users better understand and trust the models.

Who has influenced your thinking the most in this field?

I always wanted a mentor but never found one—so one day I decided to become the mentor I never had .

If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting in mathematical optimization, what would it be?

Check out www.optimization4all.com. You'll find resources—and most importantly, people who can support you on your optimization journey.