Supply Chain Planner

Supply chain managers are accountable to ensure that a business gets the supplies or materials they require quickly efficiently and on budget. To achieve this, they need to monitor the inventory of the company and monitor the effectiveness of the current supply method. Then, the supply chain planners attempt to figure out ways to improve the process. Based on their field of expertise the supply chain planner might recommend moving warehouses, switching suppliers, or changing transportation methods. In the case of an emergency in the supply chain (such as an unexpected increase in demand or a deficiency of supplies) The supply chain planner also has to decide how to obtain new materials in the time required to fulfill deadlines.

Supply chain planners are employed in various areas, including manufacturing, retail pharmaceuticals, distribution, and manufacturing. Whatever the industry the supply chain planner is in a workplace during normal business hours however, overtime is sometimes required in the event of an emergency.

In order to become a planner for supply chains, an undergraduate degree is typically required. Most companies prefer qualifications in supply chain, operations, business or any related field. The master's level in management could be beneficial, particularly when the candidate hopes to advance to a higher position within the business. Additionally, a minimum of between two and five years of experience in the field of supply chain is usually necessary. Certain businesses may require certifications in management of vendors or operators like those that are APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) or the APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

As a Supply Chain Planner with 6-9 years of experience in India, here are some main responsibilities:

• Ensuring optimal stock levels, tracking inventory movement, and identifying and addressing any potential stock shortages or excesses.
• Analyzing historical data, market trends, and customer demand to accurately predict future sales, allowing for efficient production and procurement planning.
• Collaborating with suppliers to negotiate contracts, monitor product quality and delivery timelines, and resolve any supply issues.
• Continuously assessing supply chain processes and identifying areas for improvement to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize overall performance.

Major educational qualifications required for Supply Chain Planner are:

• Bachelor's degree in management or logistics, or in a related area.
• A thorough understanding of the management of inventory and logistics.
• Expertise in analytical and mathematical abilities.
• Expertise in statistical analysis.
• Ability to recognize and anticipate price changes in relation to market trends.
• Excellent verbal and written skills for communication.

The role of Supply Chain Planner is vital in ensuring the smooth functioning of a company's supply chain operations. With 6-9 years of experience in the Indian market, here are four alternative job roles to consider:

• Logistics Manager: A position that involves overseeing the transportation, warehousing, and distribution of goods, optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Inventory Manager: A role focused on managing inventory levels, forecasting demand, implementing inventory control measures, and minimizing stockouts.
• Operations Manager: A position that entails managing and improving overall operational efficiency, streamlining processes, and implementing best practices.
• Demand Planner: A role that involves analyzing market trends, historical data, and customer demand to forecast future demand accurately and optimize inventory levels.

The supply chain planner role in India is projected to experience substantial growth in the job market. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for supply chain planners has been steadily increasing due to the expanding industrial sector and international trade. With India's aim to become a global manufacturing hub, the requirement for efficient supply chain management is expected to rise significantly. This growth in the role is supported by various factors, such as the rise in e-commerce, government initiatives promoting logistics infrastructure, and the need for optimal inventory management. As a result, a significant number of employment opportunities are anticipated to be available in the future for supply chain planners in India.