Signs a Career as a Supply Chain Manager is for You

A Supply Chain Manager is responsible for every stage of the production flow from purchasing raw materials to delivering the final product. Here are the signs you’d make a good supply chain manager:

You have…

• strong organisational skills
• a logical and systematic approach
• good time management, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• the ability to solve problems and make decisions
• excellent relationship management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external teams
• negotiation skills
• business management and analytical skills
• excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• leadership skills
• IT literacy and data management skills
• and understanding of risk management in the context of the supply chain.

You want to…

• work with procurement managers and buyers to source the right products
• negotiate contracts with suppliers and customers
• plan and implement logistical strategy, ensuring targets are met
• oversee product storage, handling and distribution
• use computer software to track goods from origin to delivery
• work on forecasts and inventories, keeping an accurate record of the process and analyse performance
• work to a budget while maintaining quality
• manage a team of supply chain staff
• improve the supply chain performance and look for any possible innovations to the process
• develop new and existing relationships with suppliers
• manage and minimise the risks (for example operational or reputational) that could affect or interrupt the supply chain
• consider the environmental impact of the supply chain in order to meet sustainability targets.

You don’t mind…

• potential shift work and unsociable hours
• a fast-paced environment
• a low ratio of women to men in the sector
• occasional travel.

Getting started

While this career path is open to all graduates, a degree, Higher National Qualification or foundation degree in one of the following subjects may be advantageous:

• supply chain management
• business management
• finance
• computing
• information systems
• logistics management
• transport management.

Courses in supply chain management are offered by the Chartered Institute of Logistics.

Graduate schemes are also available with large organisations offering experience across the whole supply chain.

Work experience through entry-level jobs is an alternative route, such as an administrative assistant, purchasing assistant or trainee buyer.

Supply-chain apprenticeships are also available.

Search all supply chain jobs on our vacancies page.

Article source: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/supply-chain-manager