What is Supply Chain Management?
Supply Chain Management (SCMT) includes all the activities that must take place to get the right product into the right consumer’s hands in the right quantity and at the right time – from raw materials extraction to consumer purchase. SCMT focuses on planning and forecasting, purchasing, product assembly, moving, storage, distribution, sales, and customer service. SCMT professionals are involved in every facet of the business process as they strive to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage by building and delivering products better, faster and cheaper.
Supply chain management professionals play a role in all kinds of organizations – manufacturers, retailers, transportation companies, third party logistics firms, government agencies and service firms. Firms from around the world in all sectors of the economy recruit SCMT graduates. As a supply chain professional, an individual could work in a variety of areas including purchasing, logistics, new product development, global sourcing and procurement, quality management, inventory control or traffic analysis, operations and supplier relationship management. Competitive pressures and sophisticated customers who demand innovative and speedy solutions characterize today’s global business environment. Understanding and optimizing business processes is a cornerstone of success, and for this reason, supply chain professionals are in strong demand.
Successful supply chain professionals are typically detailed-oriented with an ability to prioritize, plan and organize. In addition, they are usually quick-learners, possess excellent communication skills, can effectively manage relationships and work in teams, and are effective problem-solvers.
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding careers in SCMT. This information will help you to learn more about a career in SCMT and understand the opportunities such a career may have in store for you.
SCMT Degree Programs, Certificates and Industry Connections
What kinds of people pursue SCMT degrees?
The profiles of SCMT professionals are varied, but in general, such individuals possess many of the following traits:
- good problem solving skills
- ability to effectively manage time and resources
- a clear vision of “the big picture” as well as the “small details”
- a desire to work closely with other people
- excellent communication skills
- ability to think strategically about technology
- a desire to take responsibility for developing and implementing their own ideas
What are typical career options for SCMT professionals?
- Supply/Demand Planner
- New Product Project Manager
- Procurement Manager
- Supply Chain Strategist
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Business Process Consultant
- Vendor Relations Manager
Why should I choose to major in Supply Chain Management?
- Job satisfaction
- High placement rate
- High salaries
- Exciting field
- Challenging field
- Hands-on problem solving
- Innovation and creativity
- Global opportunities
- You can have an impact!
