Companies continue to hire those with business degree credentials for various positions, however, most desire candidates with specialized business training in areas like supply chain management. Supply chain management involves monitoring the flow of goods from the manufacturing plant to the goods’ destination with the end customer to ensure cost optimizing efficiency. This career path presents those with the right skills a number of positions across various industries. Because of increasing trends toward an integrated global economy, many supply chain management positions are often found in exotic, foreign locales. Here are some examples of common supply chain management careers for those holding an online business degree in supply chain management.
Logistics Manager
The job description of logistics managers span a range of activities that include planning logistics related activities, coordinating distribution operations and acting as purchasing agents for supplies needed to make products. Logisticians conduct sales and operational planning as well as master schedule planning that matches manufactured goods to processed client orders. After conducting master scheduling activities, these supply chain professionals use various information technology tools and statistical methodology to determine current plant capacity and forecast future capacity for the products under their purview. Logistics managers are also responsible for efficient transportation of goods, and they have the opportunity to explore clean energy delivery options that are environmentally responsible and cost efficient. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a logistician on this career path is $72,780 and projected job growth is faster than average.
Warehouse Operations Manager
Warehouse operations managers are primarily responsible for the efficient shipping and receiving of goods. They often have knowledge of automated inventory tracking systems that utilize technologies like radio frequency identification to ensure the authenticity of their products. These managers are skilled at managing operational processes, systems and people. Depending on the industries in which they work, warehouse operational managers have even greater responsibilities when their facilities house potentially hazardous or sensitive materials. They must make sure that security measures are in place both physically and technologically. Warehouse Operations managers lead teams of people who must know how to properly handle sensitive goods that often require specialized training to comply with safety regulations.
Supply Chain Manager
Experienced supply chain professionals who have mastered several integrated logistical areas are often equipped to become competent supply chain managers. These managers oversee all aspects of the supply chain and are capable of quickly ascertaining the effects of internal and external changes imposed on the supply chain. Some supply chain managers help senior decision makers create policies for their organizations relating to supply chain strategy. They also help ensure that the company’s supply chain workforce follows supply chain policies and procedures that reduce costs and decrease uncertainty in demand.
Conclusion
Today’s business environment presents companies with many opportunities as well as challenges due to intense competition that could even come from outside one’s local market. The supply chain is often where opportunities are realized or missed depending on the skills of the organization’s managers. This is why dynamic organizations value skilled business professionals with degrees in supply chain management.
