Business

What is the role of a supply chain analyst?

Businesses need to get their final product to reach customers hand on time and it passes through various individuals, routes, and spaces creating a supply chain. The process remains strenuous and time-consuming and often meets with delays, miscommunication, and error. In such a condition, a supply chain analyst is hired and the professional analyze the current process and suggests improvement for the supply to meet the demand. The supply chain would be prepared to deal with stress and have the ability to perform multitasking. The primary job duties of the professional include collecting and analyzing supply chain data, suggesting an improvement to boost performance and reduce the cost, and finally coordinate with other staff to implement changes. To remain successful, they must possess the excellent analytical skill and interpersonal skills. These individuals are hired by any industry like food, technology, and manufacturing. They work in an office environment during regular business hours. They need to report senior supply chain managers and they are accountable to transport goods across the global market.

What does a supply chain analyst do?

The supply chain analyst is responsible for performing certain duties.

  • Creating process and methods to gather supply chain data
  • Analyzing the data to identify problematic areas and suggest improvements
  • Develop and implement supply chain optimization projects
  • Plan requirement and standards
  • Oversee inventory procedures
  • Find the most cost-effective shipping modes and schedules
  • Evaluate vendor operations meeting quality standards
  • Build a relationship with business partners
  • Coordinate with IT professionals to implement an effective system
  • Track the report on supply chain performance
  • Evaluate areas of operation that requires improvement
  • Communicate with a colleague and provide feedback on the efficiency and recommend methods to implement
  • Plan product optimizing projects

The professional needs to coordinate with colleagues of various departments. Also, they communicate with vendors to address issues and negotiate for better deals. After gaining knowledge about supply chain and business issues that are causing concern, the professional need to suggest improvement to cut cost and to improve the entire process. The main task of the professional remains developing and managing logistical processes and enabling the company to achieve operational excellence.

Types of job roles for supply chain analyst

The job role for this position will vary depending on the type of industry and department professionals are working with. They are responsible for analyzing performance, assembling data, identifying issues, and developing recommendations which usually support SCM planning and operations. They need to resolve issues occurring in supply chain operations. Some of the major job profile available for this position includes material analyst, data analyst, warehouse manager, and purchase manager.

Employment opportunities

A supply chain analyst may look for openings in any sector. They are hired by transportation and logistics companies. Apart from this, they may also apply for a job at shipping companies, freight and transportation companies, warehousing and distribution units, road transport and haulage, inventory control units, and administration.

How to become a supply chain analyst

A supply chain analyst should complete their degree in operation engineering, operation analysis, or related field. Many organizations are looking for professionals who have graduated in business management and analysis. Furthermore, they need to possess at least 3 years of experience at the middle management level.

Education requirement

The professional should be capable of managing the complexities of the supply chain and logistics. As a result, the minimum requirement would be a bachelor’s degree. The common subject to study includes supply chain management, system engineering, and business. During the bachelor’s degree, they need to cover system dynamics, database management, and operations.

Associate degree – An entry-level supply chain analyst job will require a two-year associate degree although the employer will require work experience which can be gained through an internship. The candidate must complete a bachelor’s degree to get carrier advancement.

Bachelor Degree – Many employers who are hiring middle management position requires the candidate to complete at least 4 years of bachelor degree in the supply chain, business, engineering, or related discipline.

Master degree – Professional who is looking for a senior management position or an executive career will require to have a Master’s degree in business management or supply chain management.

Employers will also assess the candidate’s interpersonal, knowledge, and business skill sets. There is no legal requirement for the professional to become certified. However, certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence and in-depth knowledge. Work experience and education are needed for certain certifications like SOLE and APICS. Work experience is vital and the professional needs to gain several years of experience in the supply chain, logistics, and business. Some may start their career in logistic support, like clerk or dispatchers. Through experience only, the professionals will get to know more about the supply chain and production process.

Training and Advancement

Aspiring professionals must be adept at complex problem solving, critical thinking, and communication skill. Additionally, they should be ready to demonstrate certain features like effective negotiation skills, able to plan and analyze complex processes, proficiency in computer software programs and databases, attention to detail, and extrapolation skills. Gaining necessary experience and additional qualification in supply chain management field will help to progress in career.

Traits and qualities required

The supply chain analyst should possess certain skills to succeed in their career.

  • They must possess excellent communication skill
  • They should have strong critical thinking skill
  • Great customer service skills
  • Superb organization skills
  • Strong problem-solving skills

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