Last Updated on February 12, 2024 by Admin
There’s never been a better time if you’ve considered starting or transitioning into a supply chain or logistics career. Kindly check this Supply Chain Management and Logistics Career guide for 2024.
Since the COVID-19-induced global supply chain disruption, organizations have focused on improving the efficiency and resiliency of their supply chains, increasing the demand for skilled talent across all levels.
In this guide, you will discover the vast opportunities for growth that a career in supply chain management can offer. You will also receive tips on how to break into the field and learn about the essential skills that can help you advance your career.
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Career in Supply Chain Management or Logistics?
In the wake of the pandemic, it’s processed, not products, at the center of innovation. Supply chain and logistics careers offer a front-row seat to the entire planning, sourcing, producing, and transporting of goods to consumers, with ample opportunity to diversify your skillset and choose an area of specialization that fits your strengths.
Supply chain and logistics professionals also enjoy higher salaries and more robust career opportunities than the average for most jobs.
1. A Future-Proof Career
In Gartner’s 2019 Digital Talent Gap Survey, only 27% of supply chain leaders said they had the talent to meet current supply chain performance requirements. Since the pandemic, this demand has accelerated, compounded by the urgent need to digitize and restructure disrupted operations and re-strategize for a more resilient future.
Supply chain and logistics professionals with strong technical and analytical skills will be well-positioned for impactful, high-growth careers.
2. Climbing Salaries
Over the past decade, supply chain management and logistics salaries have steadily climbed. According to 2020 survey data from the Association For Supply Chain Management (ASCM), supply chain and logistics professionals with a bachelor’s degree reportedly earn a median salary of $78,750. In the same survey, 91% also reported receiving additional bonuses for their base salary.
Experience is the most significant factor in determining salary. The median salary for entry-level supply chain professionals is $60,000, which can jump upwards to $90,000 for those with five to ten years of experience.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that logistics professionals earn a median salary of $76,270. Logistics managers and directors with 15 or more years of experience earn an average salary of $123,800 to $168,670.
3. Strong Job Satisfaction
2020 survey data from the ASCM reported that 88% of supply chain professionals felt optimistic about their careers. Logistics professionals have even higher career satisfaction rates, with roughly 94% of respondents stating satisfaction.
Survey data from the 2019 Young Professionals In Supply Chain found that most young supply chain professionals felt challenged and supported by their managers and peers. An astounding 70% of respondents felt their companies offer a reasonably good chance for promotion.
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Supply Chain Management and Logistics Career Paths
According to data from the APICS Foundation, most supply chain professionals hold multiple roles across the supply chain as they advance in their careers. The nonlinear nature of the supply chain field results from the importance of understanding supply chain processes from end to end.
However, that’s not to say that supply chain professionals can’t choose to specialize in one domain. In the image below, find a few examples of possible supply chain management career paths.
As shown in this image, it’s possible to stay in one supply chain function or move across different areas as you move toward the C-suite. For example, you can start your career as a logistics resource planner, move up to logistics manager, logistics director, and lastly enter the c-suite as chief supply chain officer.
These flexible pathways rely on fundamental business, operations, and project management skills, which are excellent entry points into the field. Areas like marketing and information systems also offer valuable transferable skills that prepare professionals to thrive in supply chain roles, paired with supply chain fundamentals and other critical skills.
“Companies want people with diverse backgrounds. They’re willing to train someone with an information systems background and turn them into a supply chain manager.”
“Companies want people with diverse backgrounds,” said Ed Anderson, Jr., Centennial Professor for the Management of Innovative Technology at the University of Texas, Austin. For example, they’re willing to train someone with an information systems background to become a supply chain manager.”
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Supply Chain Management Career List
Supply chain management (SCM) has become increasingly vital in today’s globalized economy, offering many career opportunities. This field involves managing the flow of goods and services from raw materials to the final customer. Based on recent trends and data, here’s a list of careers in supply chain management that are in demand:
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Supply Chain Analyst: This position focuses on analyzing and improving supply chain processes, including data analysis, logistics, and efficiency optimization.
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Logistics Manager: This person oversees the movement, distribution, and storage of materials and finished products. They work to minimize costs and maximize efficiency within the supply chain.
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Procurement Manager: Responsible for acquiring the goods and services needed for the company’s operations. This role involves negotiating with suppliers, contract management, and strategic sourcing.
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Supply Chain Manager: Manages the entire supply chain operation, including procurement, production, inventory management, and logistics. They work on strategy, planning, and execution to improve performance and reduce costs.
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Operations Manager: This person oversees the production and manufacturing processes. They focus on ensuring products are produced efficiently, on time, and within budget.
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Warehouse Manager: This person manages warehouse operations, including inventory control, order fulfillment, and distribution. They ensure that goods are stored efficiently and safely and dispatched on time.
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Transportation Manager: Focuses on the planning and execution of the transportation of goods. They work on selecting the most efficient routes and modes of transportation, negotiating with carriers, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
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Inventory Manager: Responsible for monitoring and managing inventory levels, ensuring enough stock to meet demand without excessive surplus.
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Demand Planner: Uses data analysis to forecast customer demand and manage inventory levels accordingly. This role is crucial for minimizing stockouts and overstock situations.
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Supply Chain Consultant: Provides expert advice to organizations on how to improve their supply chain processes. Consultants analyze existing operations and recommend efficiency, cost reduction, and performance enhancement strategies.
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Global Supply Chain Manager: This role specializes in managing supply chain operations across international borders. It involves navigating complex global logistics, customs regulations, and multicultural business practices.
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Sustainability Supply Chain Specialist: Focuses on implementing environmentally sustainable practices within the supply chain, such as reducing carbon footprint, waste management, and ethical sourcing.
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Supply Chain Project Manager: Leads specific projects within the supply chain, such as system implementations, process improvements, or the launch of new products. They ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet objectives.
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Customer Service Manager (Supply Chain): This position manages customer service operations related to the supply chain, ensuring customer satisfaction regarding product availability, delivery times, and service quality.
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Supply Chain Compliance Officer: This role ensures that all aspects of the supply chain comply with legal regulations and industry standards. It involves risk management, audit preparation, and maintaining relationships with regulatory bodies.
The supply chain field offers diverse opportunities, from analytical and strategic roles to operational and management positions. With the increasing complexity of global supply chains, professionals with expertise in technology, sustainability, and international trade are particularly in demand. Continuous learning and adaptability are key in this dynamic field.
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Supply Chain Management and Logistics Jobs and Skills
Supply chains are vital to the health of many organizations, with roles spanning from supply chain managers to forklift operators. These jobs are in demand, particularly in logistics, where there is a shortage of drivers and service technician positions.
WHAT IS LOGISTICS?
The focus of logistics is the transportation and distribution of goods. From warehousing to inventory management to fleet management operations, logistics hold jobs for people of all experience and educational levels.
The skills and education requirements vary depending on the job title. Supply chain management roles such as procurement or purchasing managers often require a secondary degree and experience in multiple supply chain functions. These jobs generally have the highest salaries but demand the most expertise.
Supply chain management and logistics share overlapping skill sets. Both demand a general understanding of all supply chain functions and components and require a strong command of soft skills. Additionally, as supply chain activities shift to more strategic, high-level tasks, there is a growing need for analytical skills.
- Supply chain fundamentals: All supply chain workers, especially those in management positions, must understand every component of the supply chain and core skills such as demand planning and forecasting. Whether you specialize in procurement, operations management, or logistics, you should know how these functions work together.
- Business skills: How to develop business models or integrate marketing insights into the supply chain. Developing problem-solving and analytical skills to recognize trends in data has also become a highly sought-after skill in supply chain leaders.
- Soft skills: Communication, relationship management, and negotiating skills are essential for coordinating between internal stakeholders and vendors and ensuring maximum supply chain efficiency.
How to Start a Career in Supply Chain Management: 3 Tips
The hardest part about the supply chain management career is getting your foot in the door. It’s recommended that you have at least a bachelor’s in supply chain management or a degree in accounting, information management, marketing, business administration, or engineering can be helpful; there are several other ways to position yourself for a role in supply chain management.
1. Develop Supply Chain Expertise
Suppose you don’t have a supply chain management degree or any previous supply chain experience. In that case, you’ll need to develop expertise in the fundamentals and methodologies used in supply chain management, including designing supply chain networks, conducting supply chain modeling and analysis, and understanding how supply chains interact. This expertise can be learned through supply chain courses and programs for those looking to transition into the supply chain.
“I had been working at a biotech company as a logistic technician and then moved into a supply chain role focused on improving efficiency, but I didn’t have the business and supply chain skills to advance within my team,” said Mia, a supply chain manager in the United States. Through the MITx MicroMasters® program in Supply Chain Management on edX, Mia seamlessly transitioned into her new role, even receiving a significant pay bump and increased responsibility.
“Everything I learned from the MITx MicroMasters program in Supply Chain Management was immediately applicable in my job, giving me tools and background that I didn’t even realize I was missing.”
“Everything I learned from the MITx MicroMasters program in Supply Chain Management was immediately applicable in my job, giving me tools and background that I didn’t even realize I was missing,” said Mia. ‘It was a great way to fill the gap between my professional and academic experiences and gave me the confidence to tackle new challenges at work.”
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2. Earn Work Experience
Internships are fantastic to gain real-world experience in supply chain management. They strengthen your resume and allow you to make essential connections that can help you during your career. The best way to find an internship is to utilize your college alumni and professional networks and carefully tailor your internship applications. If you are a supply chain student, you can start building your network through student associations.
You can also gain experience by working in retail or material handling. Many retail positions affect the demand side of the supply chain. Material handling jobs such as forklift operators, truck drivers, or warehouse associates can expose you to logistics.
3. Start Upskilling in Key Areas
Upskilling in critical areas can fast-track your career in supply chain management. If you don’t want to pursue an advanced degree in supply chain management, taking online programs or certifications is another excellent alternative. You can earn supply chain, planning, or logistics certifications from recognized supply chain associations like APICS or build transferable business skills in data analysis or project management.
Mid to senior-level supply chain professionals will need tools and skills for redesigning supply chain strategies. For example, as supply chains become more agile and future-proof, tomorrow’s supply chain leaders can learn how to leverage AI technologies to ensure the supply chain is as resilient as possible amidst social or economic disruptions.
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Start Building Your Supply Chain And Logistics Career
Supply chain and logistics have never been more vital in today’s economy. With more organizations seeking to employ skilled, experienced supply chain management professionals, a career in the supply chain is sure to be in high demand over the long term. If you want to learn supply chain fundamentals, advance your career, or earn a supply chain degree, explore industry-aligned courses and programs at edX.
Final Reflections
Navigating the supply chain management career list reveals many opportunities catering to a wide range of skills and interests. From strategic roles such as supply chain analysts and procurement managers to operational positions like warehouse managers, the diversity of jobs in logistics and supply chain management for freshers is impressive. These entry-level positions offer a solid foundation for a fulfilling career in this dynamic field.
The highest-paying jobs in supply chain management often require a blend of experience, strategic insight, and advanced education. Roles such as supply chain managers, global supply chain managers, and supply chain consultants stand out for their lucrative compensation packages.
The logistics and supply chain management jobs salary varies widely, depending on factors like experience, location, and the specific sector within the industry. However, it’s clear that as professionals climb the ladder, the financial rewards become significantly more attractive, reflecting the critical importance of supply chain operations to the success of businesses worldwide.
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For those considering logistics career opportunities, the landscape is equally promising. With the growth of e-commerce and global trade, logistics professionals are in high demand. The logistics career path offers a range of roles from transportation and warehouse management to logistics analysis, each crucial for the efficient movement of goods in a global economy.
The supply chain management and logistics career landscape in India is thriving, thanks to the country’s pivotal role in international trade and its rapidly growing economy. Supply chain management jobs in Pune for freshers, for instance, highlight the city’s status as a burgeoning hub for both manufacturing and IT sectors, offering numerous opportunities for graduates looking to enter the field. The supply chain management and logistics career in India promises diverse job roles and a chance to be part of one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Regarding compensation, the supply chain management and logistics career salary in India is competitive, reflecting the increasing demand for skilled professionals capable of navigating the complexities of global supply chains. Salaries vary across different cities and sectors, but the upward trend in compensation mirrors the critical role these professionals play in ensuring operational efficiencies and contributing to the bottom line.
The supply chain management careers list is extensive, offering a rich array of paths for individuals at different stages of their careers. From jobs in logistics and supply chain management for freshers to more advanced positions, the industry offers robust career progression opportunities. The potential marks the supply chain career path for growth, specialization, and the pursuit of leadership roles, while the logistics career path focuses on the operational aspects of moving goods efficiently and effectively.
In summary, the supply chain management and logistics field is vast and varied, with a range of career opportunities catering to different interests and skill sets. Whether starting out fresh or looking to advance in the industry, the potential for rewarding and high-paying roles is significant, especially in rapidly growing economies like India. The keys to success in this field include a willingness to learn, adaptability, and a strategic approach to navigating the complexities of global supply chains and logistics operations.
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FAQs
Yes, pursuing a career in logistics and supply chain management is advisable as it is a critical and growing field within the global economy. It offers diverse job opportunities, career progression, and the potential for innovation in optimizing product flow and delivery.
Studying logistics and supply chain management equips individuals with valuable skills in operations, strategic planning, and problem-solving, essential for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in the distribution of goods and services. It opens doors to a wide range of industries and roles, reflecting its importance to business success.
Roles in logistics and supply chain management include logistics coordinator, supply chain analyst, operations manager, procurement specialist, and logistics manager, among others. These positions involve overseeing the movement of goods, supply chain optimization, and improving overall operational efficiency.
Logistics careers can be high paying, especially for individuals with significant experience, advanced degrees, or specializations in areas like global supply chain management or logistics technology. Salaries vary widely based on role, industry, and geographic location.
The future scope of supply chain and logistics is expansive, with increasing demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of global trade, e-commerce, and sustainability challenges. Technological advancements like AI and blockchain offer new avenues for efficiency and innovation in the field.
Technology significantly impacts careers in logistics and supply chain management by introducing automation, data analytics, and digital platforms that enhance decision-making, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Professionals in the field must be adept at leveraging these technologies to stay competitive.
Yes, individuals can transition to logistics and supply chain management from other careers, especially those with experience in business, engineering, or information technology. Skills in project management, analysis, and strategic planning are particularly transferrable and valued in this field.
