Adequate pay, high job demand, and opportunities for advancement usually make a career attractive. One job that fits these descriptions is a career in supply chain management.

But what actually is supply chain management? Let’s define some supply chain management concepts first.

Supply chain management and logistics deal with a lot of variables.

What is a Supply Chain? 

A supply chain is the coordination of multiple activities used to create and deliver products and services to the customer. It takes and links multiple processes including planning, material acquisition, production, and logistics, which focuses on the movement of materials and finished goods.  

Today’s fast-paced society requires a well-planned supply chain.

What is Logistics in Supply Chain Management? 

Supply chain management combines multiple processes and a network of manufacturers, freight forwarders, and distributors. Each does its part in transforming raw materials into finished goods and transporting them to where they are sold. Supply chain management focuses on competitive advantage to achieve higher cost savings and profits for the organization.

On the other hand, logistics encompasses the portion of the supply chain that deals with planning and executing transportation, storage, and material handling. It reduces costs and improves efficiency in supply chain management. Without logistics, a supply chain cannot function.

Logistics aims to improve customer satisfaction by ensuring products reach businesses or customers without losses or delays.

A supply chain cannot function without logistics.

What Skills are Needed for Supply Chain Management?

 1. Communication Skills 

 You must be able to effectively communicate with colleagues, suppliers, and customers. This career deals with networking with people to accomplish the best outcome for your organization or customer.

2. Technological Skills 

You need proficiency in supply chain management platforms along with an understanding of e-commerce concepts. As this is an ever-evolving area, a passion for learning is a bonus. 

 3. Inquisitive Nature 

You should be able to go through an abundant amount of raw data and quickly assess which information is relevant. Using data to spot trends will help you solve current and upcoming issues. 

4. Negotiation skills and Ability to Thrive Under Pressure 

Negotiation skills come into play as you want to maximize your gains and minimize your losses. Along with this, you must be able to deal with all situations calmly and capably under any time restraint. Combining these skills will allow you to deal with almost any situation you come up against.

Great communication skills can help you succeed in the supply chain management and logistics industry.

 Because of the nature of this career path, adapting and improving processes for your organization or customer is ongoing. 

What are the Trends in Supply Chain Management? 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation

Organizations are using these to simplify and streamline tasks and automate procedures. Efficiency is important for business success, and AI and automation are imperative to improving speed and competency.

Sustainability

Environmental factors influence today’s consumers, so you must keep your supply chain sustainable. 

Cloud Solutions

To be competitive in today’s market, supply chain management systems need to be more flexible and accurate. Cloud storage platforms are highly secure while providing excellent user experience and keeping information accessible.

AI and automation will shape supply chain management’s future.

Digital integration has become an essential part of the modern supply chain. IoT refers to the millions of physical devices globally connected to the internet and powered with sensors and software. This allows for the collection and sharing of data in real time. IoT devices can then be used together with other technology to gain further insights. 

With the challenges ahead, organizations are looking to their supply chain professionals to provide the competitive edge needed to prosper now and in the future. 

Is Supply Chain Management a Good Career?

Most people are concerned about job stability. The 2021 annual survey report published by Supply Chain Canada shows that 93% of Canadian supply chain professionals kept their jobs despite the diversities faced in the pandemic. 

Job demand for supply chain and logistics professionals is increasing as they can now be found in nearly every industry, giving graduates diversity in their employment opportunities. 

Moreover, as a supply chain professional, you can achieve career satisfaction by contributing to your organization’s success and providing a positive impact on the environment. 

According to Job Bank as of April 2023, salaries for entry-level positions in the supply chain and logistics field in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick range from $24 to $27 per hour up to $29 to $37 per hour.

For more information, go to Eastern College’s Supply Chain and Logistics program page or Supply Chain Online program page.