Supply chain management coordinates how products and services move from the point of origin to the consumer through activities like manufacturing, warehousing and transportation. With increasingly online and global marketplaces, supply chain management is an important function of organizational success and a rapidly growing field.
To match evolving technologies and consumer expectations, supply chain management roles require professionals with specialized logistics knowledge and leadership capabilities. Learn how earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Concentration in Supply Chain Management online from Arkansas State University (A-State) can prepare you for advanced roles across a wide range of industries.
What Do Supply Chain Management Professionals Do?
Supply chain professionals coordinate the movement of goods, information and services from suppliers to customers. They build and operate logistics networks, control inventory and services and oversee distribution so that customers receive the right product at the right time. They also monitor performance and risk and evaluate supply chain and logistics systems, using data to improve overall outcomes.
Supply chain management is a necessary component across different economic sectors that impacts organizations’ ability to meet consumer standards and maintain profitability and growth. In manufacturing, supply chain management supports the development, quality and availability of products. In retail and e-commerce, supply chain management enables functions such as warehousing, distribution and fulfillment centers and last-mile carriers. The healthcare industry also relies on supply chain management for consistent distribution of medical supplies.
Job Prospects and Career Opportunities
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth in logistics and supply chain management, up to 17%, mainly due to the expanding e-commerce industry and advances in technology. In addition to the growth of jobs, these factors also influence the roles available within supply chain management, with increasing investment in leaders who can manage evolving supply chain technology and complex operations. Career opportunities within supply chain management include:
- Supply chain analyst: Evaluates supply chain data and performance metrics to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
- Operations manager: Oversees production or service operations, ensuring that staffing and workflows align with business goals.
- Procurement manager: Develops sourcing strategies and negotiates and manages supplier contracts to control costs and quality.
- Supply chain director/vice president: Provides executive leadership, setting long-term strategy and aligning operations with organizational objectives.
Compensation varies by role, industry and experience, but many supply chain management roles offer strong earning potential. Logisticians earn a median annual wage of $80,880, while supply chain managers earn a median of $122,090 annually. Professionals in supply chain management may have opportunities to advance to director or executive roles, which earn between $102,950 and $206,420 annually.
Essential Skills for Supply Chain Professionals
Supply chain professionals require a combination of academic knowledge, technical skills and professional attributes. Professionals must understand the fundamentals of supply chain management as a system that connects people, information, resources and technology to move products or services from suppliers to consumers.
Within this system, professionals possess knowledge and practical skills in warehouse operations, transportation, procurement and other supply chain activities. Additionally, core business skills in planning, organizational behavior and financial analysis enable professionals to develop strategies across these activities.
Technical Skills
Supply chain careers demand specialized technical skills. For instance, forecasting methods allow professionals to anticipate and strategize around customer demand, while inventory management supports accurate tracking to reduce waste and prevent shortages.
Cost analysis ensures that each stage of the supply chain contributes to profitability without sacrificing reliability. Technical expertise also extends to assessing and optimizing performance metrics, such as transportation costs and lead times.
Technology Skills
Students preparing for advanced roles in supply chain management must possess skills with platforms and tools that organizations use to manage operations. Professionals use various supply chain systems and technologies with increasing integration into everyday operations, such as:
- Automation and artificial intelligence
- The Internet of Things and cloud computing
- Predictive modeling and data analytics
- Blockchain
Soft Skills
Soft skills complement technical and technological expertise, allowing managers to guide strategy and organizational performance. Key soft skills for supply chain professionals include:
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Leadership and accountability
- Problem solving and creative thinking
- Adaptability
How to Get Started in Supply Chain Management
Education is often the first step toward a career in supply chain management. Many professionals begin with a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, gaining skills in finance, management and organizational behavior. Pursuing an MBA with a focus in supply chain management prepares professionals for leadership positions by deepening knowledge and practical skills in core business competencies while integrating coursework in logistics and operations.
Internships and entry-level positions offer practical experience and on-the-job training to help students apply classroom concepts to work in logistics, procurement or inventory management. These opportunities also provide industry exposure and develop professional networks. Professional organizations, such as the Association for Supply Chain Management or the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, offer further education and networking opportunities.
Why Should You Choose A-State’s Online MBA in Supply Chain Management?
A-State’s online MBA with a Concentration in Supply Chain Management prepares students for advanced careers and leadership roles. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), A-State’s graduate studies curriculum offers a rigorous education with competencies aligned with employer standards.
With flexible, fully online coursework, student services and the support and real-world insight of experienced faculty, this program helps professionals gain high-quality education and grow as leaders without pausing their careers. Examples of coursework in an MBA in supply chain management include:
- Graduate Business Fundamentals: Covers core concepts in business statistics, economics, accounting and finance to develop business acumen.
- Business Analytics: Introduces data-based tools for decision-making, including linear programming, data mining, simulation and business intelligence.
- Logistics Operations: Focuses on operations and management techniques in warehousing, purchasing, transportation services and logistics personnel coordination.
- Sourcing and Procurement: Examines strategic and operational purchasing functions, emphasizing supplier development and evaluation.
Set Your Career in Motion With a Supply Chain Management MBA From A-State
Careers in supply chain management are evolving and expanding, and professionals with strong technical knowledge and leadership skills are in high demand. With an MBA in supply chain management, graduates can pursue competitive roles and careers across a wide range of industries.
A-State’s online MBA with a Concentration in Supply Chain Management pairs in-depth business education with specialized supply chain coursework, preparing graduates to take on leadership roles and contribute to organizational success. Explore and learn more about the online MBA in supply chain management, or apply today to start working toward your career goals.