Effective supply chain management (SCM) gives a company a competitive advantage. It is the process of delivering what customers order by their deadlines at a minimal cost — everything from sourcing materials to manufacturing to distribution and delivery. The online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Supply Chain Logistics Management program from the University of West Florida (UWF) provides professionals with the specialized skills and knowledge to excel in SCM operations. People who perform these tasks are sought-after logisticians and SCM professionals.
For example, in the aftermath of a hurricane or other disaster, logisticians ensure the right resources arrive as soon as possible, which allows both businesses and the government to continue operating. The process of achieving these results involves working closely with the customers placing orders. Effective supply chain management also depends on obtaining products from suppliers, which may be challenging or simple, depending on the products involved, the size of the business and external circumstances or conditions such as the widespread disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Is the Job Outlook in Supply Chain Management?
As more global economies strive to slash costs, the demand for logisticians who know how to facilitate an organization’s supply chain skyrockets. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates 18% growth in logistician jobs between 2022 to 2032 — much faster than the average growth for all occupations. This reflects a distinct talent gap in the SCM field.
Generally, supply chain management requires at least an undergraduate degree for entry into the field. For those interested in leadership roles in supply chain and logistics, earning an MBA may be the next step to achieve a career at the management level. In UWF’s online MBA in Supply Chain Logistics Management, students will gain the tools and techniques to address business processes strategically and analytically. They also gain a competitive edge over job applicants without an advanced degree.
In fact, SCM is so critical to business operations in the modern, globalized world that many organizational structures include a C-suite SCM position — the chief supply chain officer. This is good news for those in the field with upper-level qualifications and the advanced business administration expertise an MBA in Supply Chain Logistics Management provides.
Advanced Training
Logisticians often receive on-the-job training to stay current with developments in the field, but their skills may also benefit from a specialized online MBA or further certification. Logisticians with military backgrounds often excel at supply chain management because they are accustomed
Salary Ranges
BLS reports that the median annual salary for logisticians in 2022 was $77,520, with the highest paid 10% earning over $124,050. According to March 2024 data from ZipRecruiter, supply chain managers make an average salary of $100,315 and chief supply chain officers average $151,203 annually, with the upper percentile earning over $269,000.
Clearly, there is high demand for supply chain and logistics management professionals and abundant room for growth in the field. Those with substantial education and experience can pursue advancement to management and even executive-level positions, opening the door to fascinating and rewarding careers.
Learn more about the UWF online MBA in Supply Chain Management program.
