4 In-demand Careers In Supply Chain Management

Supply Chain

Supply Chain

Supply chain management is a dynamic and flourishing field. From sourcing raw materials to delivering finished products, supply chain professionals are responsible for ensuring that every step of the process goes without a hitch.

The field has a higher-than-average employment growth rate, with several job opportunities expected to open up in the next few years. Many supply chain and logistics jobs exist at every level in many industries, and those looking to build a career in the field have a myriad of opportunities to look forward to.

If you are also looking for a lucrative and fulfilling career in supply chain management, consider the following options.

  1. Operations Manager

If you like to work behind the scenes and have a knack for management, then a career as a supply chain operations manager could be right for you. Some of the key tasks performed by operations managers include analyzing operational procedures, identifying areas for improvement, and developing and implementing advanced processes. They must be able to analyze data, identify trends and patterns, and develop actionable insights.

Every company requires a supply chain operations manager regardless of size or industry. This means that you will have plenty of options to choose from. Arguably, the best part of being an operations manager is knowing that your hard work and expertise are making a real difference in the company’s overall performance.

The educational requirements for supply chain operations managers vary depending on the industry and the employer. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in business administration or certification in operations management will get you an entry-level job in the field. However, an MBA specializing in supply chain management is required to obtain a managerial position. Salaries for these professionals may vary depending on the industry, location, and experience. That said, the average annual salary for supply chain operations managers is $120,639, according to salary.com.

  1. Logistics Manager

A logistics manager is a professional who oversees the efficient and cost-effective flow of goods within a supply chain. They oversee the planning and execution of logistical operations to ensure that products are delivered to the correct place, on time, and at the right cost. They also work closely with other departments, such as procurement and sales.

To undertake this role, you must have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Communication and leadership skills are also crucial to effectively manage your team.

Job prospects for logisticians are promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 28% increase in employment from 2021 to 2031. The increasing importance of efficient logistics in industries such as manufacturing, retail, and transportation primarily drives this growth.

You need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration to work your way to becoming a  logistics manager. However, some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. If you want to stand out among other candidates, we recommend acquiring certifications, such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified Logistics Professional (CLP).

  1. Purchasing Agent

As a purchasing agent, you will manage relationships with suppliers, seek out new partnerships, monitor the market for potential deals, and negotiate with suppliers to get the best possible prices. Moreover, purchasing agents play a critical role in maintaining accurate transaction records for their organization. It typically involves keeping track of product deliveries and maintaining purchasing records.

They work in various industries, including manufacturing and retail. You must have strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills to be a successful purchasing agent. A deep understanding of the industry and market trends is also required.

A bachelor’s degree in business administration or finance is required to enter the field. The annual average salary for a purchasing agent is $64,766, according to salary.com.

  1. Production Manager

Production managers train their teams to detect and prevent problems at every stage of the production process. With keen observation skills, they figure out the causes of common issues and find innovative solutions to limit human error on the production line. As a production manager, you will also plan production schedules, ensuring they are accomplished on time and within the budget.

You are already on the right track if you have a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering. And for those seeking growth in their career, a master’s degree in business administration or industrial management will prove to be very useful. With an advanced degree, you will have the knowledge and tools to manage processes, operations, and information systems to maintain the highest quality standards.

Production managers in the United States typically earn an average annual salary of $115,636, according to salary.com.

Conclusion 

Businesses have undergone a tremendous transformation in recent times. As a result, the supply chain management industry has grown by leaps and bounds. Today, supply chain management is a multi-disciplinary field encompassing everything from planning and sourcing to manufacturing and delivery. With this expansion comes a lot of opportunities for aspiring professionals looking to get into this exciting and ever-evolving field.

If you are looking for an ideal career in terms of pay, growth, and job satisfaction, choosing one of the jobs covered in this blog would give you a successful and fulfilling career.