03/05/2025
Supply Chain Management (SCM) involves the management and delivery of goods and services, including processes that transform raw materials into end products.
SCM develops analytical and critical thinking skills, and may offer career paths to international travel and executive-level opportunities.
Supply chain management majors may be able to pursue various career paths, including supply chain management, logistics, purchasing manager and operations management.
Key Skills and Knowledge in Supply Chain Management Programs
Supply chain management degree programs vary depending on which institution you choose. Through traditional higher education courses to online certifications, students may study courses in finance, organizational management, accounting, business administration, and marketing.
Programs may cover:
- Fundamentals of supply chain management
- Logistics management and transportation management
- Procurement and sourcing
- Inventory management
- Supply chain technology
- Operations management
- Global supply chain management
- Financial aspects of supply chain management
- Sustainability in supply chain
- Data analytics and decision-making
- Leadership and management skills
- Supply chain strategy and innovation
Supply Chain Management Careers
The ASCM reports, based on data from 2023, that there is "significant demand and growth opportunity" for skilled supply chain management professionals. They note that between 2021 and 2031, it's estimated that there may be a 28% job growth for logisticians, around five times the average projected growth for all other occupations in that period of time. Note: Demand for workers will likely fluctuate, and conditions in your area may vary.
With the growth in e-commerce and inventory, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that logisticians like supply chain managers may be "in demand to move products more efficiently, solve problems, and identify areas for improvement."
"As more goods are purchased online, timeliness of delivery remains a priority for companies, further increasing demand for these workers."
Entry-Level Careers in Supply Chain Management
Entry-level careers in supply chain management may provide foundational experience and exposure to different aspects of supply chain operations. Entry-level professionals may find work in a variety of industries like manufacturing, wholesale trade retail, healthcare and more.
Common entry-level career roles may include:
- Supply chain analyst
- Logistics coordinator
- Procurement or purchasing assistant
- Inventory control coordinator
- Warehouse associate
- Order fulfillment associate
- Transportation coordinator
- Demand planner
- Customer service representative
- Purchasing agents
Senior Roles in Supply Chain Management
Senior roles in supply chain management may involve overseeing the entire supply chain and making strategic decisions and managing cross-functional teams. With experience, professionals may pursue executive-level roles or entrepreneurial ventures, depending on their career goals and qualifications.
Common senior-level positions may include:
- Supply chain manager
- Supply chain director
- Vice president of supply chain
- Chief supply chain officer
- Global supply chain manager
- Supply chain operations manager
- Logistics manager
- Demand planning manager
- Strategic sourcing manager
- Supply chain consultant
Specialized Roles in Supply Chain Management
Supply chain management positions may focus on specific areas within the supply chain which require more experience in particular functions or technologies.
Graduates with supply chain management expertise may pursue roles in areas such as logistics analysis, inventory management, or transportation coordination, depending on their experience and additional credentials. These positions require a deep understanding of particular functions, advanced skills, and often involve working with other teams to ensure that the overall supply chain runs smoothly. With experience, specialized professionals may find a move into senior roles as the next step or choose to start their own consulting firms.
Industry-Specific Supply Chain Management Careers
Industry-specific supply chain management careers offer the chance for supply chain professionals to utilize unique strategies, practices and processes that companies in different industries adopt to manage their own supply chains effectively.
Each industry may have distinct requirements, regulations and eventual challenges that influence how supply chains and production planning are managed.
Industry-specific supply chain management careers may include positions in manufacturing, environmental, retail, and healthcare.
- Oil and gas SCM
- Aerospace and defense SCM
- Automotive SCM
- Retail SCM
- Pharmaceutical SCM
- Food and beverage SCM
- Fashion or apparel SCM
- Tech SCM
With experience, industry-specific professionals may find a path into senior leadership roles, or start consulting firms.
Skills and Qualities Required for Supply Chain Management Careers
SCM may require a mix of technical skills, soft skills and industry-specific knowledge. While knowledge of SCM systems and processes may be essential, it's important to know how to lead teams, make decisions under pressure, and adapt to a constantly changing landscape.
Effective communication, financial understanding, and problem-solving abilities are equally important to achieving optimal supply chain performance.
Some skills may include:
- Problem-solving and critical thinking: Ability to tackle challenges and find efficient solutions.
- Data analysis and business analytics: Proficiency in using data to drive decisions.
- Attention to detail: Manage complex processes as overlooking the smallest details may result in delays, increased costs or quality issues.
- Project management: Ability to manage projects and coordinate between teams.
- Communication and negotiation: Strong verbal and written communication, particularly for negotiating contracts and managing relationships with suppliers, vendors, and customers.
- Technology proficiency: Familiarity with supply chain management software like SAP, Oracle, or Infor, as well as emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain.
- Leadership and collaboration: Ability to lead teams, collaborate across departments, and align supply chain activities with business goals.
- Negotiation skills: Negotiate with suppliers, service providers and customers to secure favorable terms that could help companies achieve their goals.
- Financial knowledge: Financial literacy may help to make cost-effective decisions as SCM involves managing budgets and controlling costs.
Accreditation and Certification
SCM degree programs are offered at many different educational institutions. Before committing to a program, research which accreditations may matter to you or your future career endeavors.
Accredited programs meet recognized standards for quality and curriculum, which may help students select institutions that align with their career goals.
For institutional accreditation, only consider programs from regionally accredited schools.
Supply chain certifications can enhance professional skills and credibility, and there are multiple options depending on your career stage and focus area. The choice of certification depends on your career stage, area of specialization, and industry focus.
Some common certifications may include:
- Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM, formerly APICS)
- SCPro, Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals
- Certified Professional in Supply Management
- International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (IPSCM)
- Lean Six Sigma Certifications
- Global Logistics Associate (GLA)
- Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)
Getting Started in Supply Chain Management
Pursuing a career in SCM involves learning the basics, gaining real-world skills, networking opportunities, and continuous learning. Here are a few things to consider:
- Learn the basics: Understand how SCM works, as some basics include managing the flow of goods, services and information.
- Evaluate your interests and skills: Review which areas might be best for you, including more specialized concentrations like operations, logistics, procurement, inventory, or supply chain strategy.
- Education and training: Although formal education isn't required, it may be helpful to seek a bachelor's degree or higher depending on your career path.
- Gain experience: Consider hands-on experience and seek an internship, mentorship, or entry-level role that may provide practical knowledge of how supply chains operate.
- Develop the skills: Develop technical and soft skills through formal education or certification, such as communication, technical, project management or analytical skills.
- Networking: Engage with professional organizations and industry events to build your network and stay informed on supply chain trends.
- Industry trends: Read up on industry publications and follow industry trends like blockchain, artificial intelligence or Internet of Things (IoT) that are shaping the future of supply chains.
Curious about the difference between supply chain management and logistics? Discover how these fields intersect and explore which path might be right for you. Learn more about Supply Chain Management vs. Logistics.
