Supply chain managers are crucial to the global economy. They represent a unique discipline responsible for supporting the global network of delivering products and services across the entire supply chain, from raw materials to end customers. Specifically, supply chain managers engage in the design, planning, execution, control, and supervision of supply chain activities with the objectives of creating net value, building a competitive infrastructure, leveraging worldwide logistics, synchronizing supply with demand, and measuring performance globally.
The supply chain manager coordinates the logistics of all aspects of the supply chain which consists of following parts:
The plan or strategy The source (of raw materials or services) Manufacturing (focused on productivity and efficiency) Delivery and logistics The return system (for defective or unwanted products)
The supply chain manager strives to minimize shortages and keep costs down. The job is not only about logistics, production planning, purchasing, and inventory. Supply chain managers, “make recommendations to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency of operations.” Improvements in productivity and efficiency significantly impact the bottom line of a company and have a real and lasting impact.
Supply Chain Manager Duties and Responsibilities Oversee creation of processes and methods to gather supply chain data Process data, identifying problematic areas and suggesting improvements Exceptional organizational and multitasking skills Design and implement necessary supply chain optimization projects Develop requirements and standards (e.g. procurement, shipping, etc.) Analyze, optimize, and oversee inventory procedures Commitment to uncovering the most cost-effective shipping modes and schedules Assess vendor operations (e.g. freight) according to quality benchmarks and standards Foster strong partnerships with other businesses Work with IT professionals to implement efficient systems Track KPIs and generate reports for supply chain performance Create supply chain management strategies that increase efficiency and speed Provide operational support and guidance to ensure maximum productivity Train and mentor SCM employees Collaborate with other departments to identify vulnerabilities and close operational gaps Focus on safety, cost management and business growth in all interactions and directives
Body of knowledge Performance trade-offs Warehouse management Transportation management Supply chain synchronization Risk management Sustainability Location facilities Distribution Warehousing Logistics International regulations Strategic sourcing and supplier relationship Customer relationship management Applying lean and six sigma tools Strategy development and application Supply chain management Process improvement and six sigma Execution, planning, scheduling control Project management Lean management Foundations of business management Operations and enterprise economics