What Is an Assistant Supply Chain Manager?
An assistant supply chain manager supervises crucial parts of the franchise supply chain. Responsibilities include encouraging teamwork between the sales team and customer service team, creating and maintaining policies on logistics and procedures, and managing inventory. An assistant supply chain manager works in direct communication with suppliers and will need to analyze profitability of existing contracts. He or she oversees the activities that take place for purchasing, transportation, inventory, and warehousing, in addition to providing leadership and coaching to teams of store managers within the supply chain. The assistant supply chain manager will report directly to the supply chain manager.
| Educational Requirements | Bachelor's degree, certification optional |
| Job Skills | Social skills, verbal and written communication, leadership, customer service, data analysis, logistics, inventory management |
| Median Salary (December 2021)* | $84,213 (for Supply Chain Managers) |
| Job Outlook (2020-2030)** | 30% (for all Logisticians) |
Source: *PayScale.com; **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
Employers typically require a bachelor's degree in business administration, logistics, sales, supply chain management, or a related field. Some companies may prefer a Master of Business Administration. Several years of work experience in business or customer service will also be required.
Certification is not required but can increase your salary and improve your hiring potential. The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) offers several certificate programs, including Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
Required Skills
Strong social skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills are needed for this position because this job is heavily reliant on interpersonal connections and maintaining these relationships. The assistant supply chain manager will choose, evaluate, and encourage collaborative relationships with suppliers. Exceptional leadership and coaching skills are also needed for motivating regional managers and store managers.
Skills in data analysis, logistics, and inventory management are needed, as well. Assistant supply chain managers create, actualize, and refine the production system from design to shipment. They oversee employee performance and polish inventory and supply chain activities and records for productivity. Assistant supply chain managers also need to be very familiar with each region they manage, as well as the software systems used to manage procurement and inventory management.
Career Outlook and Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment of logisticians is estimated to grow 30% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than average for all occupations. Logistical and supply chain process performance is essential to a company's profitability. Employment in this field is expected to grow as companies need more professionals to move products efficiently, resolve issues, and determine areas for improvement. PayScale.com reports that the median salary for supply chain managers in December 2021 was $84,213.
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Below are a few careers related to that of an assistant supply chain manager.
