Job Description

This job is part of our sustainability series:  > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers

A Supply Chain Manager is responsible for the movement of goods from manufacture and supply through to the retailer. They will plan delivery timetables, ensure stores have enough stock, monitor stock levels at the supplier to meet demand, track products to make sure they arrive at their destination on time.

Entry Requirements

You can get into this job through:

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start on a supply chain practitioner advanced apprenticeship, which could lead onto a supply chain leadership or express delivery manager degree apprenticeship.

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Click here to search for an apprenticeship.

University

You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:

• logistics
• supply chain management
• transport management
• business management

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Click here to search for a suitable course.

Work

You could start in a junior role like transport clerk and work your way up through training and promotion.

You can do work-based training courses through The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport.

Career Path and Progression

With experience, you could progress to senior planning jobs and consultancy work.

Related careers you may be interested in:

• Retail buyer
• Car fleet manager
• Road haulage load planner
• Freight forwarder
• Purchasing manager

Required Skills

• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Good problem solving abilities
• Good IT skills
• The ability to work well under pressure
• A good geographical knowledge
• The ability to lead and manage a team
• Excellent planning skills
• Attention to detail

Salary Range

£20,000 to £60,000