Jobs and Careers Summer 2023 - 284

SUPPLY CHAIN
S
upply chains are networks
involved in producing
and delivering products
or services. This includes
raw material producers,
warehouses, vendors, distribution centres,
transport companies and retailers, which
together take an item from its raw
components to the finished product
in the hands of the consumer.
The growth in commerce - particularly
e-commerce - has led to a boom in the
supply chain sector, and with that comes
increased pressure on businesses to deliver
products on time and of the right quality
- a pressure that is only going to increase.
Over 1.7 million people are currently
employed in some part of the sector,
but with demand outstripping skilled
workers, businesses are on the lookout
subjects like business management or
supply chain management. Some larger
companies also offer two-year graduate
trainee schemes. Even if you don't have
a degree, you can get into the sector via
an apprenticeship, or work your way
up from an entry-level position such as
purchasing assistant or trainee buyer.
How much can I earn? Starting salaries
are around £31,000, rising to £40,000
and above for those with five years'
experience or more.
Supply chain
administrator
Another entry point to the job above
is as a supply chain administrator.
You'll be predominantly office based,
and the main part of your job will be
to support the smooth running of the
The recent growth in commerce -
particularly e-commerce - has led to
a boom in the supply chain industry
for talent. Opportunities are available
at all levels, and all over the country.
Interested? Here are some of the options
you might want to consider.
Supply chain manager
In this role, you'll oversee every stage
of the production process - from raw
materials through to final delivery.
You'll be responsible for identifying key
components and product lines, tracking
stock levels and shipments, and managing
contracts with suppliers. Finally, there's
a big emphasis on efficiency - you'll need
to find ways to make the network quicker
and/or more cost effective.
What skills and qualifications do I need?
Strong planning skills and the ability to
manage your time well are vital in this
position. As you'll be collaborating with
both internal and external teams, you'll
also need to have good interpersonal
skills. There are several routes into this
role, including a university degree in
supply-chain department through
administrative duties. Examples of these
tasks include ordering stock, maintaining
documentation and chasing suppliers.
What skills and qualifications do I need?
There are no particular qualifications or
degrees needed, although you will need
to be highly numerate. The other main
things you need are computer literacy,
organisation and a willingness to chip
in wherever needed.
How much can I earn? Starting salaries
range from £18,000 to £22,000 a year.
However, supply chain administrators
can earn £26,000 or above, depending
on their location and experience.
Warehouse manager
Warehouse managers plan and coordinate
warehouse operations. This can be at
places such as distribution depots, retail
stores and manufacturing plants. Not
only will you be planning deliveries, you
will also be responsible for layouts and
284 /// JOBS & CAREERS /// jobsandcareersmag.com
storage spaces, and making sure goods
are in the right place at the right time.
What skills and qualifications do I need?
Key skills required include knowledge
of transportation methods, costs and
benefits, as well as a strong grasp of
maths. Leadership skills are important,
as you'll be responsible for managing a
team of people. You could do a foundation
degree, higher national diploma or
undergraduate degree in something like
supply chain management or transport
management. Alternatively, you could
work your way up from warehouse
assistant or trainee manager.
How much can I earn? Salaries start from
£23,000 and can go up to £35,000 with
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Jobs and Careers Summer 2023

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