SCM Supply Chain Management – Supply Chain Management Career Guide

Choosing to have a career in SCM supply chain management is an important decision that should not be made lightly. The work in this field is challenging and requires a variety of skills and knowledge as well as a lot of dedication. Remuneration is excellent, but can you do what it takes to deserve it? Learn more about the SCM job requirements, the different positions, salaries and the different employers you can work for and about the available career paths.

Entry-level SCM supply chain management positions usually require a bachelor’s degree. Some employers will hire graduates from any major while others prefer people with degrees in mathematics, statistics and economics and similar ones. Postgraduate programs in SCM are now available at different universities worldwide. They are designed for students with a relevant bachelor degree who want to take higher positions in the company they are working for. Often employers encourage mid-level SCM employees to earn a master’s degree so that they can advance in the company and in their career.

What are the SCM supply chain management job opportunities? Entry level positions range widely. You can become a logistics consultant, a warehouse supervisor, a customer service manager or a supply chain analyst. The starting salaries range from $23,500 to $58,500 on average. The large range is due to the fact that the different types of jobs require different levels of skills and knowledge.

Middle level managers specialize in different areas of SCM supply chain management. These include purchasing manager, international logistics manager, transportation manager and supply chain software manager to name a few. The remuneration of middle level managers ranges from $75,000 to $110,000, depending on the nature of their work and on the company they are working for. Top level corporate managers and vice presidents of SCM make over $130,000 a year. You can reach such a position after ten to twenty years of work experience in the field.

SCM supply chain management jobs are available in companies of all sizes and in all industries. You can work for a privately owned business in manufacturing, retail or health care. Many individuals find jobs in transportation companies as well. A large number of aspiring SCM professionals choose to work for third party logistics companies.

How do you know you have what it takes for a successful SCM supply chain management career? Educational qualifications are essential for having a successful career in SCM. However, employers look for a much broader range of skills. The ability to prioritize, plan and organize is the main hiring criteria, according to surveys. It is closely followed by oral communication skills and ability to learn quickly. Relationship management, motivation and ability to perform under pressure are other essential factors for success in this field of business. Decision making skills and problem solving skills are also highly valued.

Overall, you can have a successful career in SCM supply chain management, provided that you have the necessary skills and genuine interest in this area of operations. There is not a straightforward career path in SCM, so you will have the opportunity to work in different sections of the supply chain and to set your own career advancement goals.