Supply chain management involves a wide variety of activities related to the acquisition and distribution of materials.

In a production facility, a supply chain manager will source raw materials for production and send finished products to customers.

This job involves the planning, oversight, and execution of processes needed to facilitate the flow not just of materials but also of information and capital. Supply chain managers use both business functions and specialized technology to produce value for their organization.

Below are a few reasons why the career path of a supply chain manager can be a rewarding one.

Why You Should Consider a Career As Supply Chain Manager

Good Compensation

Supply chain managers are in high demand, and as such, they command a good salary. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for a supply chain manager in 2020 was more than $76,000.

Data from the federal agency also says there are about 24,000 job openings for supply chain managers each year. Furthermore, employment opportunities are expected to grow by about 30 percent through 2030.

Variety

Whether physical activity, intellectual challenges, structure, a lack of structure, or transactional responsibilities, supply chain management offers a range of working environments and job responsibilities.

The supply chain is such a broad field that someone selecting this career path has the opportunity to meet all kinds of career goals. The supply chain also touches every single industry. While the shipping and manufacturing industries are tightly bound to the supply chain, service industries like banking also require supply chain abilities related to supplier sourcing, information flow management, and process design.

Future Proof

Technology is disrupting the supply chain just as it is in many other industries. GPS technology allows us to track shipments in real-time. Software platforms allow an unprecedented level of visibility into production and purchasing operations.

As technology continues to evolve, it will likely mean a more sophisticated supply chain with even more opportunities. For example, automated trucks set to come online in the next few years will completely change shipping expectations.

For supply chain managers, this translates to a future-proof career path and working with some of the latest technology. Supply chain managers of the future must be tech-savvy and be able to translate new capabilities into new opportunities.

Highly Accessible

Those looking to get into supply chain management can do so without earning an advanced degree. While some jobs call for graduate or advanced training, most people can obtain work in logistics if they have a bachelor’s degree. On the other hand, some positions are open to people with associate degrees. Still, it is generally advised to earn a four-year degree to access the widest range of career possibilities.

Rewarding Work

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we realize how much we all depend on the supply chain to support modern life. People depend on supply chain managers to maintain normalcy, which can make the job extremely rewarding.

We Can Help You Chart a Rewarding Supply Chain Career

At ZDA, our mission is to help people find success working in the supply chain. Please contact us today to learn how we can do the same for you.