What is a Supply Chain Manager?
Summary
A Supply Chain Manager is required to supervise and oversee the entire supply chain process, from sourcing, producing, distributing, and delivering goods to the end consumer. The key responsibility of a Supply Chain Manager is to efficiently transport products from suppliers to consumers while also minimising company costs and boosting business profitability.
They are incredibly important to manufacturing, logistics, and retail teams as they work hard to maintain smooth business operations at each stage of the supply chain. They are typically required to manage company resources, maintain supplier relationships, maximise productivity amongst production teams, meet distribution/production goals, and manage costs effectively.
Key Responsibilities of a Supply Chain Manager
The tasks performed by a Supply Chain Manager can vary depending on the industry, business size, distribution process, and location. However, most Supply Chain Managers are required to:
- Develop, plan, and implement supply chain strategies that align with the company’s objectives.
- Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, by negotiating supplier contracts, and ensuring they deliver materials and products to meet company deadlines.
- Control and manage the transportation of products and materials by supporting warehouse operators and logistics staff to deliver supplies to customers, wholesalers and/or distribution centres on time.
- Work with Inventory Controllers to monitor stock levels to meet consumer demand and manage supply levels. This often involves planning and forecasting stock needs and doing further inventory management.
- Report and track supply chain performance by identifying any issues or concerns in relation to achieving set goals such as reducing costs, improving delivery speeds, and reducing waste.
- Focus on enforcing sustainable practices, such as reducing production waste, increasing eco-friendly practices, and implementing sustainable procedures throughout the supply chain process.
- Promoting a safe workplace culture by following OH&S procedures by reporting workplace incidents and hazards to the WHS Manager.
How to Get a Job as a Supply Chain Manager in Australia
- Get the right qualifications: To be a Supply Chain Manager, you often need to obtain a degree in supply chain management, logistics, business, or business administration. Although it is not a requirement, most recruiters expect a to see a tertiary qualification or additional certification in distribution, logistics, or a business-related field.
- Build experience: Before becoming a Supply Chain Manager, at least 2 years of experience in a team leader or supervisory position is often required. In some cases, an employee will start as an entry-level warehouse worker and get promoted to a management position after working several years in the industry.
- Showcase your skillset: Supply Chain Managers are often required to work with Inventory Controllers, WHS Managers and Operations Managers, therefore demonstrating strong analytical skills, problem-solving skills and leadership qualities is highly advantageous. Being proficient in using supply chain management software is also important.
- Reach out: To assist with the job search, consider reaching out to staffing and employment agencies that specialise in supporting the warehousing, manufacturing, and distribution sectors.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What qualifications or certifications do I need to be hired as a Supply Chain Manager?
- In Australia, a university degree in supply chain management, logistics, or business is normally a requirement and having these qualifications can significantly increase career opportunities.
- What is the average salary of a Supply Chain Manager?
- The average annual salary for a full-time Supply Chain Manager in Australia ranges from $110,000 – $140,000 depending on the type of industry, business size and company location.
- What industries are looking to hire Supply Chain Managers?
- Supply Chain Managers are pivotal to operational teams in many industries, including wholesaling, manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and logistics.
- What are some important skills for a Supply Chain Manager to demonstrate during the hiring process?
- Successful Supply Chain Managers often harness various skills including leadership, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills. The ability to manage risks and reduce waste is also considered important to hiring managers.
- Is there market demand for Supply Chain Managers in Australia?
- The demand for Supply Chain Managers remains high as the e-commerce industry grows and a desire for businesses to boost supply chain productivity is continuing to increase due to globalisation.
*This is to be used as a guide only and is not a representation of the roles we currently have available.
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