Considering the competition in the business world, finding ways to make yourself stand out is critical. Earning an MBA might be a good option for those wanting to add a unique factor to their resume. However, the increased saturation associated with the degree has forced many to choose a specific area to specialize in.
One of the popular MBA concentrations is in supply chain management. As per the US News & World Report, supply chain management has been awarded as one of the best careers to pursue. The field offers growth potential, enhances business knowledge, and makes your resume stand out.
Why consider an MBA in Supply chain?
Before you jump to any final decision, let’s discuss other reasons why you should pursue an MBA in supply chain management. So, what does supply chain management entail? It is about fulfilling a client’s or customer’s request.
From procurement of raw materials to finishing the product, the supply chain department ensures quality products reach the customers.
Besides amplifying your business knowledge, supply chain MBA programs teach you to utilize analytics to improve operational effectiveness. Moreover, it offers you insight into the impact of an individual step on the entire process and equips you with the skills needed to analyze relationships with supply chain partners from a legal and ethical point of view.
Getting an MBA focusing on supply chain management will provide you with the technical skills needed to tackle workplace challenges and participate in collaborative work. If you think the field is for you, consider enrolling in programs like an MBA supply chain online degree. These programs help you become a well-rounded and agile business professional.
Furthermore, opting for an online program also allows candidates the flexibility and convenience to study remotely without compromising their jobs. After getting an MBA with a specialization in supply chain, there are several roles you can choose from if you are not sure what kind of jobs to look for.
Roles for an MBA with a focus on supply chain management graduate
Mentioned below are a few choices you can look into.
Project Manager
With the market growing competitive, people want to work in the field that offers them stability and growth, which the corporate world provides. That said, a project manager’s role is such that it will always remain in demand, despite the type of industry.
So, what do project managers do that make them essential in every industry? Let’s find out. Project managers oversee every aspect of the project, from initiation to end. They ensure the work is done efficiently without compromising on quality. A project manager’s demand spans various industries, from technology to finance and construction.
Although a project starts with an idea, it is the project manager’s responsibility to work with internal stakeholders and the clients to bring that idea to completion. Guiding and training the team is a project manager’s responsibility. Since a manager is responsible for monitoring a project, they are also accountable for every aspect.
Besides ensuring project completion, a project manager also evaluates the efficiency of the project and looks out for any shortcomings that can be avoided in the next project.
Logistics Analyst
As the title says, a logistics analyst analyzes an organization or firm’s logistical function or supply chain. In addition to that, they maintain a database that holds logistics information. An organization’s supply chain means an analyst oversees the product’s lifestyle from purchase to distribution and final clearance of the resources.
Using analytical skills, logistics analysts find ways to make the best use of the company’s resources to streamline operations. A few skills required to excel at the role of being of logistics analyst include database knowledge and experience in statistics application.
As per the bureau of labor statistics, logisticians’ employment is projected to grow 28% through 2031. Due to technological advancements, a high number of goods are transported worldwide. Keeping that in view, companies are keen on improving efficiency and managing costs. That said, the demand for logistics analysts continues to grow.
Supply Chain Manager
A supply chain manager is responsible for developing and monitoring the company’s supply chain strategy. While securing high-quality material for the company, a supply chain manager aims to improve productivity and efficiency and save costs.
Managers collaborate with vendors and suppliers to ensure that the company performs its duty diligently. A supply chain manager must have a sound understanding of the supply chain process and relevant software.
A supply chain manager is a step up from the supply chain analyst and is adept at managing operations. Although they work in the office, a manager occasionally travels to manufacturing sites to find raw material suppliers.
A supply chain manager’s salary depends on the responsibilities they have to fulfill, job location, and experience.
Enterprise account manager
It is assumed that an enterprise account manager’s job is compared to an outbound sales rep. However, that is not always the case. An enterprise account manager works to create and maintain relationships with accounts of other businesses with the potential to generate high revenue.
An enterprise account manager works in different departments to ensure the company provides quality products and client satisfaction. Additional responsibilities of an enterprise account manager include outlining a sales plan that aligns with the company’s goals and developing proposals for new business opportunities.
Coordinating a training program for clients to help them understand the benefits of an enterprise account manager’s services is also a part of their job. Leadership, solid communication, and negotiation skills make enterprise account managers successful.
Global Commodity Manager
Within the purchasing organization, a global commodity manager’s role is critical. A lot goes into buying commodities on a global basis. The manager develops a plan to procure that commodity.
Since the role is at a global level, the commodity manager must understand the global market to find opportunities and exploit them to their own benefit. A global commodity manager evaluates a supplier’s performance and ensures compliance with regulations and standards.
In developing countries like Asia that use more resources, the demand for commodities will increase along with technological advances that enhance the efficiency of the resources used.
Conclusion
The field of supply chain management has moved on from its role of simply business oriented. Different companies like Amazon thrive due to their strong supply chain and well-thought-out logistics. Consider an MBA in the supply chain to add value to your career and climb the success ladder in the business world.
Supply chain MBA offers a wide range of career opportunities from enterprise account manager to logistics analyst and global commodity manager. Graduates can choose a career path that best aligns with their skills and interests.