What Is Supply Chain Logistics Management?
Supply chain logistics management systems improve the way businesses find and use raw materials to provide services or to make and deliver products. Find out more about supply chain logistics management education and careers below.
Supply Chain Management: An Overview
A company's supply chain consists of everyone involved in production, from the raw materials sources to delivery to the consumer. A supply chain logistics management operation allows the company to track defective products or components through the entire supply chain and ensure customer satisfaction with delivered products or services. Optimal management in this area ensures cost-effectiveness by combining strategic, tactical and operational functions of a company.
Important Facts About Careers In Supply Chain Management
| Logistician | Production Manager | |
|---|---|---|
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 7% | -1% |
| Professional Certification | Voluntary, but recommended; available through the APICS or the International Society of Logistics | Voluntary, but recommended; available through the Association of Operations Management and the American Society of Quality |
| Key Skills | Critical thinking; problem solving; organization; clear communication | Problem solving; leadership ability; social nuance; time management |
| Similar Occupations | Cost estimators; industrial engineers; management analysts | Construction managers; mechanical engineers; operations research analysts |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Opportunities
Individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field may want to consider acquiring a bachelor's or master's degree in supply chain management, logistics management or business logistics. Through such programs, students can learn how to identify problems in physical flows or information flows through the supply chain and generate solutions using the latest technology. Courses in these programs often cover topics such as logistics, control systems, inventory planning and supply chain relationships.
Careers
Many companies in manufacturing and logistics industries seek individuals with knowledge of supply chain logistics management who have strong leadership, communication and project management skills. Job titles in supply chain logistics management can include logistics manager, supply chain analyst, production manager or supply chain manager.
Salary Information
In June 2019, PayScale.com reported the following annual salary ranges for the majority of those working in these occupations:
- Logistics manager: $43,000-$96,000
- Supply chain analyst: $44,000-$77,000
- Production manager: $47,000-$100,000
- Supply chain manager: $52,000-$116,000