Logistics and supply chain professionals integrate and optimise all the steps required to deliver the right product, to the right customer, at the right time. In other words, they ensure that the customers’ product needs are met.

The job market in logistics and supply chain is taking off at a rapid rate — making job opportunities available for those who are interested in working in this field (and who have the necessary skills to do so). As in any other field, some careers in logistics and supply chain management are in greater demand, or are more rewarding, than others.

Here are 4 of the top careers in logistics and supply chain management:

1. Demand Planning Analyst

A demand planning analyst is responsible for managing stock levels and purchasing goods, as well as for analysing the inventory and billing processes. When you carry too much or too little inventory in a business, it often has negative consequences — which is why having a demand planning analyst is so important.

This role involves plenty of quantitative analysis, so if you are interested in a career in demand planning analysis, you need to make sure that you have the necessary skills in mathematics.

2. Procurement Manager

As a procurement manager, you would be responsible for buying goods for your company at the most competitive prices. This is a good career option if you have excellent communication and negotiation skills, and you love working with figures and establishing professional networks.

A professional qualification is important, but it is not the only way to enter this career: you could also take a short course in logistics and supply chain management, start working as an assistant in the procurement department, and work your way up through gaining experience.

3. Distribution Centre (DC) Supervisor

Distribution centre supervisors manage the daily activities of the distribution centre. Not only do these professionals manage expenses and minimise loss, but they are also responsible for maximising revenue and ensuring that all goods are sent off to customers at the right time.

As a distribution centre supervisor, you will have to perform various complicated tasks to ensure that processes keep running smoothly. You can easily enter this career with relevant training (such as a certificate course in logistics and supply chain management) and relevant practical experience.

4. Supply Chain Consultant

As a supply chain consultant, you give advice regarding vendor and inventory management. Supply chain consultants are important for small businesses that would like to have a third-party perspective regarding their supply chain activities. Individuals usually enter this field through by starting out in entry-level supply chain positions, and work then work towards managerial consulting positions by gaining additional qualifications and relevant practical experience.
 

Other areas of specialisation in logistics and supply chain management include:

  • Manufacturing
  • Inventory
  • Distribution
  • Retail
  • Customer relations
  • Operations research
  • Production management
  • Warehouse management

 

If you are keen to work in a managerial position in the field of supply chain and logistics, it would be a good idea for you to develop a broad understanding of the field, as well as to keep up to date with any new developments that take place in this area.
 

To find out more about how you can prepare for your managerial career in the field of supply chain and logistics, simply click on the button below:

 

View Supply Chain and Logistics Courses at Oxbridge Academy

 

Note: This article has been updated for comprehensiveness and accuracy. Updated by: Dale Hes