Supply Chain Director

Supply chain directors help build necessary business infrastructures that make sure supply chain operations run smoothly. Leaders in this field must communicate with vendors and distributors to ensure that their company can receive and ship their products.

Job Responsibilities

For the most part, supply chain directors are vitally important for companies that deal with commodities and other raw materials. They are responsible for creating networks that involve purchasing and managing commodities to make products quickly and efficiently.

Supply chain directors work across an array of industries, including:

• Distribution: Managers in this area usually must take on an additional sales role as they look to different markets to push products and services. As part of the supply chain management portion of this role, directors must locate effective and beneficial wholesale opportunities to boost company growth.
• Healthcare: Because healthcare and pharmaceutical products are in demand across the board, supply chain directors must step in to make sure that businesses receive and ship the materials they need.
• Manufacturing: Probably the most recognizable space for supply chain directors, this field requires directors to enter automotive, pharmaceutical, electronics, and perishables markets to refine logistics processes across the board.
• Technology: As more companies develop new technologies and platforms, supply chain leaders need to intervene to help businesses get the best deals on raw materials, software, and other technological components.

Additionally, supply chain directors maintain a close relationship with vendors and distributors across an array of industries. In this capacity, they need to be organized to ensure that commodities and raw materials arrive and/or distribute on a timeline they create. Additionally, supply chain directors are encouraged to build forward-thinking relationships with suppliers to cut costs on incoming products and shipping.

An important development in shipping and raw materials trading is that the industry is now global. Businesses typically have to consider working with vendors and suppliers overseas to compete in many markets. As a result, supply chain directors are much more important in today’s economy, where companies across industries and platforms need commodities worldwide.

In a separate set of responsibilities, supply chain directors also must keep on top of company inventory. It’s their duty to analyze their inventory to predict future demand and any complications that could arise. An effective supply chain director can refine organizational processes and give companies the platform they need to cut costs and ultimately grow.

Supply chain directors typically report to corporate officers and oversee shipping and receiving, inventory management, and logistics planning.

Supply Chain Director Salary

Because supply chain directors are an integral part for businesses of all sizes to efficiently sustain growth, they are widely sought after and generously compensated. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a supply chain director is $127,348. This amount varies due to many factors, including company size, employee benefits, and the different scope of work among supply chain directors. On average, supply chain directors can expect higher earning potential at a larger company, where more raw goods and commodities are received and distributed.

Because these are leadership roles, tasks include many administrative responsibilities.

Education Requirements

To become a supply chain director, candidates are typically required to have various credentials before entering the position. While previous work experience is important in logistics and supply chain management, successful candidates typically couple that experience with an advanced degree. By getting an advanced degree, future supply chain directors can communicate their more refined and specialized knowledge base that will have immediate benefits on the job.

At Campbellsville University, our MBA concentration in Supply Chain and Logistics Management will give you the best footing to advance your career as a future supply chain director. In two years, you’ll have the opportunity to work with and learn from professionals in the field. In the fully online setting, you’ll be able to take the classroom with you as you complete your degree at a pace you find convenient. Learn more about the program today and begin your journey to becoming a supply chain director.