Supply Chain Manager
What is the work like?
As a supply chain manager, you would plan and organise the transfer of goods and materials from manufacturers and suppliers through to customers. In this line of work, you might also be known as a logistics or distribution manager.
You could manage distribution operations in a variety of organisations, for example a major retailer. Alternatively, you might work for a logistics contractor that specialises in shipping goods on behalf of other companies.
Whichever organisation you work for, your main responsibilities would include:
- planning delivery timetables
- monitoring stock levels using computer databases
- tracking the movement of goods through depots
- overseeing the ordering and packaging process ready for dispatch
- looking at ways to improve supply networks
- overseeing the arrival of shipments
- managing clerical, administrative and warehouse distribution staff
- monitoring performance and making sure targets are met
- dealing with staff recruitment and training.
You would work closely with purchasing officers, warehouse staff and transport clerks to make sure goods and materials arrive at the depot as scheduled, are in good order, stored correctly and dispatched to customers on time.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Your main route directly into supply chain management would be to take a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND or a degree in a course such as:
- logistics
- international transport
- supply chain management
- transport management
- geography.
These are available at colleges throughout the country and you will need to check with them for their exact course entry details. To search for colleges and universities offering these courses see the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
Another option is to start with a company in a related job, for example as a transport clerk, and work your way up through to supervisory and management levels.
See the Skills for Logistics website for more information about careers in this industry.
What further training and development can I do?
You could take on-the-job training awards, which include:
- postgraduate degrees – transport planning, supply chain management and logistics
- NVQs – in Distribution, Warehousing and Storage Operations Level 3, and Integrated Logistics Support Management Level 4.
If you have a degree, you may be able to start training with a larger employer on a graduate training scheme. These are structured programmes lasting from a few months to two years. During this time, you would have placements in several company departments, gradually taking on more responsibility.
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK) also offers certificate, diploma and advanced diploma courses in Logistics and Transport. They also have a continuing professional development (CPD) scheme for their members. See the CILT website for details.
Where can I go for more information?
Logistics and Transport CentreEarlstrees Court
Earlstrees Road
Corby
Northants
NN17 4AX
Tel: 01536 740100
Warren Farm Office Village
Stratford Road
Milton Keynes
MK12 5NW
Tel: 0870 242 7314
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for graduates are from £18,000 to £22,000 a year.
- With experience this rises to between £25,000 and £35,000 a year.
- Senior supply chain managers can earn up to £60,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. Depending on the company, you may work evenings and weekends on a rota basis, or be available on-call to deal with emergencies. Many firms run 24-hour operations involving shiftwork.
You would normally be office based, usually in a distribution warehouse or depot.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good planning skills
- the ability to motivate and lead a team
- good spoken and written communication skills
- good problem-solving and numeracy skills
- attention to detail
- confidence in using computer packages, such as spreadsheets and databases
- the ability to work under pressure to deadlines
- good geographical knowledge.
If your company has overseas operations, you might find it helpful if you can speak a European language.
What opportunities are there?
You can find work with a wide variety of organisations, ranging from small firms that operate locally, to national and multinational companies. Employers include warehousing and distribution firms, manufacturers, freight forwarders, major retailers and charities.
Although growth in the sector may not be quite as rapid as the last few years, Skills for Logistics believe that long-term developments, particularly with the expansion of freight traffic in the south-east, are likely to continue to drive demand for distribution support services.
With experience, you could progress to senior planning jobs and consultancy work.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Careers in Logistics
Jobs in Transport
Transport Jobs Network
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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