Unlocking Your Supply Chain Potential

Last updated on May 7, 2023

Photo by Uriel SC on Unsplash

The world today is witnessing a rapid growth in the trend of supply chain operations, as one of the most sought-after career options in India. To meet the demands of the global economy, the focus has shifted from traditional to digital solutions, thus providing beneficial career opportunities for professionals. This can open up various avenues for those looking to move up the ladder and unlocking their supply chain potential. In the following article, we will look at the steps needed for transitioning into a career in supply chain management and the salary expectations for the same in India.

The Benefits of a Career in Supply Chain Management

A career in supply chain management offers innumerable benefits to professionals. Supply chain professionals are expected to work in an environment that is rapidly evolving, and they are always on their toes trying to keep up with the latest technological and organizational advancements. This helps them stay up to date with the latest trends in their respective sectors, which gives them an invaluable edge when it comes to job opportunities. With their expansive knowledge, they can gain better insights into their organization and the market they are catering to. Moreover, the fast-paced environment helps them sharpen their decision-making skills, which further aids the growth of their professional stature. Furthermore, the well-paying salary commensurate with their skills and experience is an additional perk of the job.

What Does it Take to Build a Career in Supply Chain Management?

A career in supply chain operations requires a diverse set of skills and knowledge. At the forefront is the ability to understand the nuances of the market, its operations and its implications for the supply chain operations. An individual must also possess a deep knowledge of modern supply chain practices, tactics, and the tools used to maximize productivity and optimize resources. Along with these technical competencies, soft skills such as problem-solving, communication, and collaboration are also essential. Only when these qualities are combined can an individual be considered a professional in the field.

Average Salary of a Supply Chain Professional in India

The average salary of a supply chain professional in India depends on their experience and the organization size. For an entry-level professional, the average salary is generally around ₹4-5 lakh per annum. After some experience, professionals can expect to see a hike in their salary, up to ₹10 lakh or more. Senior supply chain professionals with extensive experience are expected to earn more than this, depending on the company they are employed in.

Real-Life Stories

An efficient supply chain management has been the key to some of the most successful organizations in the world. To illustrate this, one need not look further than the example of logistics giant, Amazon. It was the effective supply chain management strategy of Amazon that enabled it to become one of the leading providers of global goods, delivering products to customers in as little as two hours. This success of Amazon is a prime example of how supply chain operations can help companies reach unprecedented heights.

Another top executive, who has extensively utilized supply chain management in his career is Brian Goldner, now the CEO of Hasbro, Inc. Goldner embarked upon his career journey with a bachelor's degree in economics and an MBA. During his tenure at Hasbro, he implemented an agile supply chain operations strategy to reach nearly every continent in the world. This allowed the company to swiftly source goods from various suppliers and effectively manage the production. As a result, Hasbro was able to effectively meet the demands of the consumer market.

Challenges and Tips for Transition into a Career in Supply Chain Management

Transitioning into a career in supply chain operations can be highly challenging, but it is certainly not impossible. An individual who wishes to pursue this profession must be well acquainted with the basics of supply chain operations, as well as the challenges they will face in the process. The most pertinent challenge at the outset would be to gain an in-depth understanding of the industry and the operational aspects of the same. Moreover, getting certified as a supply chain professional is essential, as this sets the candidate apart from the competition. Furthermore, it is also recommended to undertake courses specifically designed to train individuals in supply chain operations. Such courses include inventory management, operations research, and business analytics, among others. Building a successful career in supply chain operations, therefore, requires dedication and hard work.

Actionable Steps

• Gain an in-depth understanding of the supply chain industry and operations.
• Undertake courses related to supply chain management to equip yourself with the necessary skills.
• Get certified as a supply chain professional in order to have a competitive edge.
• Utilize modern tools and technologies for increased efficiency in operations.
• Develop and hone problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Forge partnerships with hotels, providers, and suppliers to enhance work and business approach.
• Create networks to better understand and stay updated with the ever-evolving trends in the industry.

Conclusion

Unlocking supply chain potential in India is a lucrative yet difficult proposition. By following the steps as mentioned in the article, you can smoothly transition into a career in supply chain management and reap the rewards of both monetary and professional growth. However, like any other profession, it requires commitment and dedication to be successful.