5 Supply Chain Management Jobs That are Trending Now

Those who seek to make a future in supply chain management jobs have options to specialize in planning, operations or even in supporting roles such as finance, sales or analysis. With different levels of work needed in the supply and logistics arena, individuals have a plethora of opportunities at their disposal, especially if they keep their choices open. Let's look at the top 5 Logistics and Supply Chain Management Jobs:

Logistics Managers

Logistics managers are responsible for assessing and improving a company's supply chain logistics. In other words, they manage the inventory and goods, determining how individual items are purchased and delivered. They also act as a point of contact and facilitate communication between different departments of the company, such as sales, shipping and distribution. Managers in the logistical department may also handle the warehouse and improve delivery efficiency.

Supply Chain Managers

The role of a Supply Chain Manager is a standard job description in the supply chain industry. The primary function of a Supply chain manager is to look after the company's overall end-to-end supply chain and logistical operations to increase efficiency and productivity while reducing costs. Growth in this particular role, in future, one can get promoted to a supply chain president or director role.

Industry Data Analysts

Supply Chain Analysts are subject matter specialists that provide an extra set of eyes'' and perform research and analysis to present supply chain solutions. These data analysts have statistical and mathematical skill sets that help companies manage and analyze data. They use this data to make insightful reports for the company board to investigate operations and take meaningful organizational decisions. Analysts often take the help of graphical data and software programs to calculate numbers for purchase orders, revenue, etc. and make these data into easy-to-read diagrams.

Purchasing Managers

A purchasing manager is involved in all aspects of operations, including product development, supplier selection, cost comparison, planning and production. They coordinate the purchase of required inventory and oversee a team of purchasing managers to ensure the adequate quantity of items are ordered as well as look after new procurement of products. Purchase managers are also responsible for wholesale, retail and trade merchandising while negotiating contracts to maximize organization profits.

Operations Managers

One of the most vital roles in the supply chain industry is that of an operations manager. They are in charge of the day-to-day operations of the business. The roles include managing directors, marketing specialists, sales heads or even HR managers.

Supply chain management expertise is a crucial skill for operations managers. Therefore, the Industry Integrated MBAs are similar to Supply Chain Management-focused MBAs. In fact, operation managers are the ones who have a spot in the boardroom.

An operations manager's daily responsibilities may include taking important strategy and policy decisions while identifying inefficient processes and implementing solutions. They are also accountable for the regulation and legal documentation of the files, as well as the development of potential organizational partnerships.

Overall, the operations manager supervises business functions and ensures optimal performance delivery by the team members for greater efficiency.