Supply chain manager

Supply chain managers oversee activities related to an organisation's products and services, including production, purchasing, warehousing and distribution of products.

Also known as

Supply chain supervisor, supply and distribution manager, supply chain and procurement manager, goods clearance manager, supply chain operations manager, service manager software supply, supply planning manager

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
  • Usually work in offices or warehouses and may travel locally or nationally
  • Need to be organised, solve problems and communicate well

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$65K-$227K 65000

Typical tasks

  • Manage records of products and resources
  • Research and identify new suppliers
  • Build relationships and negotiate with suppliers
  • Make transportation changes for sustainability
  • Develop operating strategies, plans and procedures
  • Analyse data to guide decisions
  • Estimate labour requirements for operations
  • Develop organisational goals and objectives
  • Supervise team members
  • Keep records of payments and deliveries

Outlook

Supply chains are becoming more technology-driven as organisations use artificial intelligence, automation and advanced analytics to improve planning and resilience. In New Zealand and internationally, businesses are adapting to changing global trade patterns, sustainability expectations and supply chain risks. Digital visibility, data-driven decision-making and sustainable practices are increasingly shaping how goods and services move around the world.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strategic planning and decision-making skills
  • Leadership and team management ability
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking
  • Understanding of logistics and supply chain systems
  • Ability to manage relationships with suppliers and stakeholders
  • Adaptability in changing environments

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.