It wouldn’t be overstating things to say that Supply Chain Management (SCM) is full of risks and unprecedented crises. Case on point — Sony’s 2004 PlayStation 2 launch fiasco. Sony shipped its PS2s from China well in advance hoping to make it in time for Christmas. But fate had something else planned.
A cargo ship ended up blocking the consignment indefinitely and Sony had to fly in the consoles long after the damage was done and Christmas had passed.
Granted a supply chain manager’s job is highly rewarding but it is also one of the more challenging positions out there. As global expansion becomes increasingly eminent, the role of a supply chain manager in any company is one of great responsibilities.
There is growing demand for supply chain managers in the world and this reflects in their increasing salaries. No wonder the supply chain manager salary is decent. The logistics fresher salary in India is also decent when you start with basic supply chain management jobs.
Let’s find out more about a supply chain manager’s salary, their roles and responsibilities, and required educational qualification.
Job & Salaries in Supply Chain Management
Job Scope | Average Salary | Highest Salary |
Logistics Manager | ₹ 9.9 Lakhs | ₹ 20.3 Lakhs |
Purchasing manager | ₹ 10.9 Lakhs | ₹ 18.3 Lakhs |
Data Analyst | ₹ 6.4 Lakhs | ₹ 13.0 Lakhs |
Supply Chain Engineer | ₹ 4.9 Lakhs | ₹ 8.5 Lakhs |
Read: Essential management skills for a successful career
What does a Supply Chain Manager Do?
The global supply chain is booming and companies are constantly importing raw materials from different parts of the world. How these raw materials are transported from their source to destination requires efficient handling at both ends.
It is a supply manager’s job to ensure the smooth-running of operations from service to inventory and keep businesses going, while fulfilling all requirements in between.
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They have an active role in almost every aspect of import and export, from sourcing to customer support.
A typical day in a supply chain manager’s job includes:
- Procuring raw materials/services from different parts of the world and managing orders.
- Supervising logistics operations, and deliveries.
- Streamlining packaging and shipping operations.
- Reducing costs in an organisation’s supply chain
- Increasing productivity and efficiency by creating proper schedules and activities, and reviewing performance records.
- Managing orders, returns and optimizing inventory
- Strategizing ways to include new products by forming productive relationships.
- Steering the company clear of lawsuits
- Dealing with end-customers
- Purchasing, development and deployment of products.
Even though the above-mentioned responsibilities are included in the day-to-day tasks of a supply chain manager, on an average he/she does not have to perform every task regularly. It depends on what requires his attention on a particular day.
Also Read: Demand of Supply Chain Management
Importance of Supply Chain Management in the Indian Market
- Streamlining Operations
Effective SCM is synonymous with efficiency. By streamlining operations, businesses can optimize resources, reduce costs, and enhance productivity. However, this efficiency becomes especially critical in a market as dynamic and diverse as India, where adaptability is key.
- Meeting Customer Demands
In a market driven by consumer demands, a customer-centric approach is non-negotiable. SCM ensures that products are available when and where consumers want them. This not only fosters customer satisfaction but also builds brand loyalty – a priceless commodity in the Indian market.
- Managing Diverse Markets
India’s vast and diverse landscape presents a unique challenge for businesses. Supply Chain Management acts as the linchpin, coordinating the movement of goods across different states and regions. It’s the glue that holds together the intricate puzzle of logistics in a country with varied cultures and consumption patterns.
- Navigating Complexities
The Indian market, while full of opportunities, also comes with its fair share of regulatory complexities. SCM professionals play a crucial role in navigating this maze, ensuring compliance with diverse regulations governing transportation, storage, and distribution. This becomes paramount for sustained business success.
- Resilience in Supply
In a market prone to uncertainties, building resilience in the supply chain is imperative. Natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, or unforeseen disruptions can disrupt the flow of goods. A robust SCM strategy equips businesses to mitigate risks, allowing for quick recovery and minimal impact on operations.
Supply Chain Management Salary in India
According to Ambition Box, Supply Chain Management fresher salary in India ranges from ₹ 3.0 Lakhs to ₹ 29.9 Lakhs annually, translating to a supply chain management salary in India per month of ₹ 25,000 to ₹ 2,49,167. Supply Chain Management salary for freshers varies by industry and location, with experienced professionals earning significantly more.
Average Supply Chain Manager Annual Salary is ₹ 14.4 Lakhs.
Supply Chain Manager Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 16.2 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 13 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 15.2 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 12.8 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 14.1 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 13.6 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 12.8 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 11.6 Lakhs |
Supply Chain Manager Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
3 Year | ₹ 8.8 Lakhs |
5 Year | ₹ 10 Lakhs |
6 Year | ₹ 10.2 Lakhs |
7 Year | ₹ 11.3 Lakhs |
10 Year | ₹ 12.5 Lakhs |
Supply Chain Manager Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Manufacturing | ₹ 17.8 Lakhs |
Financial services | ₹ 11 Lakhs |
Internet | ₹ 13.7 Lakhs |
Retail | ₹ 15.3 Lakhs |
Industrial Machinery | ₹ 14.6 Lakhs |
Overtime and bonuses are quite common in the field. Supply chain managers also enjoy a wide range of health benefits.
Checkout: Supply Chain Management Interview Questions
The top careers in supply chain management or supply chain management jobs that are in high demand are as follows-
#1 Logistician
Logistics need people. Supply chain as an industry would cease to exist in the absence of logisticians. You can handle management or even analyst-related roles if you are qualified in supply chain management. You will need to have an eye for details, clever observation skills, and be active enough to fuel improvements. You do not get a good supply chain manager salary without essential skills.
#2 Purchasing manager
In case you have a higher inclination on the business side of things in supply chain management, a purchasing-related profile might be relevant for you. This is a role similar to that of an industrial shopper. You get to make purchases in large batches for company goods or even equipment relevant to manufacturing and transport operations.
The top skills you need for making it big as a supply chain professional are clear communication, good negotiation, and smart management of client relations.
#3 Data analyst
If managing sales, schedules, and inventory is your thing, then this role is a good fit. Supply chain management works with immense loads of data. In fact, this domain uses analytics and big data other than the typical statistical methods to leverage the best possible outcome with available data.
Average Data Analyst Annual Salary is ₹ 6.4 Lakhs.
Data Analyst Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹6.9 Lakh |
Mumbai | ₹6.7 Lakh |
Hyderabad | ₹6.6 Lakh |
Chennai | ₹6.6 Lakh |
New Delhi | ₹6.7 Lakh |
Pune | ₹6.4 Lakh |
Gurgaon | ₹7.1 Lakh |
Noida | ₹6.7 Lakh |
Kolkata | ₹6.6 Lakh |
Data Analyst Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
1 Year | ₹4.6 Lakh |
2 Year | ₹5.3 Lakh |
3 Year | ₹6.0 Lakh |
4 Year | ₹6.8 Lakh |
5 Year | ₹7.7 Lakh |
Data Analyst Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Internet | ₹7.5 Lakh |
Analytics & KPO | ₹7.1 Lakh |
IT Services & Consulting | ₹6.1 Lakh |
Software Product | ₹6.8 Lakh |
Financial Services | ₹7.1 Lakh |
#4 Supply chain engineers
For this profile, you must have skills in applied mathematics, IT, as well as logistics for optimizing all aspects of supply chain operation. Only then will you be able to meet up with customer demand.
You might be able to tap work in either the manufacturing, the warehousing, or even the transporting niches. You can work on developing the right algorithms to streamline the overall distribution of goods.
Even the logistics fresher salary in India is decent, to begin with when you start in this field. Hence, considering expansive opportunities under supply chain management jobs, candidates must try their hands at the lucrative field.
Average Supply Chain Engineer Annual Salary is ₹ 4.9 Lakhs.
Supply Chain Engineer Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 5.4 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 4.7 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 3.8 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 4.9 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 6 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 3.5 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 2.8 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 7.5 Lakhs |
Supply Chain Engineer Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
1 Year | ₹ 3.5 Lakhs |
2 Year | ₹ 4 Lakhs |
3 Year | ₹ 4.5 Lakhs |
5 Year | ₹ 5.5 Lakhs |
6 Year | ₹ 5.6 Lakhs |
Supply Chain Engineer Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Manufacturing | ₹ 4.6 Lakhs |
Auto components | ₹ 3.7 Lakhs |
Automobile | ₹ 5.2 Lakhs |
Engineering | ₹ 5.4 Lakhs |
Industrial Machinery | ₹ 5.9 Lakhs |
Educational Background and Skills Required for Supply Chain Management
Most supply chain management positions require a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on SCM. This can get you into the field as a purchasing manager, logistician, and transportation manager, among others.
Supply chain managers are expected to have a combination of some soft and hard skills that include: strong analytical ability, listening skills, effective presentation skills, knowledge of computer systems, accounting and finance, and a basic understanding of multiple cultures, to name a few.
They are also expected to be critical thinkers with a knack in mathematics and data analysis to maximise the productivity and efficiency of the organisation they are a part of. They are required to have basic knowledge of analytical tools, databases and management softwares.
Read: Product manager growth and career options.
Time management and prioritisation are considered to be important skills as a supply chain manager has multiple important tasks in a day. Further, since it is part of his job description to foster productive relationships with new clients and suppliers, communication and listening skills, and persuasive negotiating skills.
Usually, a supply manager acquires most of his soft skills while training on the job.
Most supply chain managers today are trained in artifical intelligence and machine learning, IoT, Big Data, among others.
There are several certification courses a supply chain manager can take up to gain an advantage over his peers. Some of these are: Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), and Certified Supply Chain Management Professional (CSCP).
Read: Boost your product manager career by joining the management program from IMT Ghaziabad.
Careers in Supply Chain Management
A background in supply chain management and respective expertise can land you any one of the following titles:
1. Purchasing Managers
Often referred to as procurement managers, they are responsible for fulfilling purchase orders of products/services. Sometimes, they are also employed as material managers.
Purchase managers directly interact with suppliers to procure materials and are required to have strong communication and negotiation skills.
It is estimated that the requirement of purchasing managers is expected to grow by 9% in the coming years in the food, health and hospitality sectors, among others.
Average Purchasing Manager Annual Salary is ₹ 10.9 Lakhs.
Purchasing Manager Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 11.1 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 12.4 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 11.6 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 10 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 9.8 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 10.4 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 13.3 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 13.4 Lakhs |
Purchasing Manager Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Manufacturing | ₹ 14.5 Lakhs |
Auto components | ₹ 13.8 Lakhs |
Automobile | ₹ 17 Lakhs |
Engineering | ₹ 11 Lakhs |
Industrial Machinery | ₹ 12.5 Lakhs |
2. Logistics Manager
Logistics managers are responsible for the day-to-day management of warehouses and storage facilities. They are tasked with the transportation and movement of raw materials, goods and services.
They are basically responsible for soliciting coordination and scheduling these duties.
Logistics managers mostly work with supply chain managers and operations managers however, sometimes they take up the responsibilities of both these positions, especially when working in small to medium-size companies.
Logistic managers are employed in almost every industry from manufacturing to retail.
Average Logistics Manager Annual Salary is ₹ 9.9 Lakhs.
Logistics Manager Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 10.2 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 11.9 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 11.4 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 6.9 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 7.8 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 8.6 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 9.8 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 9.7 Lakhs |
Logistics Manager Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
3 Year | ₹ 5 Lakhs |
5 Year | ₹ 5.3 Lakhs |
6 Year | ₹ 5.6 Lakhs |
7 Year | ₹ 6.4 Lakhs |
10 Year | ₹ 8 Lakhs |
Logistics Manager Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Manufacturing | ₹ 13.8 Lakhs |
Retail | ₹ 7 Lakhs |
Internet | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Engineering | ₹ 15.1 Lakhs |
Industrial Machinery | ₹ 12.2 Lakhs |
3. Transportation Manager
As the title suggests, transportation managers handle transportation operations. They work closely with the logistics departments and employ trucking companies in their operations.
Any service that requires movement of goods from one place to another has transportation managers working for them.
Average Transportation Manager Annual Salary is ₹ 6.7 Lakhs.
Transportation Manager Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 7.4 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 7.4 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 7.6 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 7 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 7.5 Lakhs |
Transportation Manager Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
2 Year | ₹ 2.8 Lakhs |
3 Year | ₹ 3 Lakhs |
5 Year | ₹ 3.4 Lakhs |
6 Year | ₹ 4.5 Lakhs |
10 Year | ₹ 5.3 Lakhs |
Transportation Manager Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
Retail | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Education | ₹ 4.2 Lakhs |
Logistics | ₹ 5.3 Lakhs |
Internet | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
Urban Transport | ₹ 4.4 Lakhs |
4. Logistics Analysts
They are mostly employed in manufacturing, hospitality, food and automotive industries, among others. Their primary goal is to analyse data from logistics departments to improve supply chain operations.
It is estimated that the job will experience a 5-9% growth by 2026.
Average Logistics Analyst Annual Salary is ₹ 6.6 Lakhs.
Logistics Analyst Salary based on Locations:
City | Salary |
Bangalore | ₹ 6.4 Lakhs |
Pune | ₹ 8.3 Lakhs |
Mumbai | ₹ 4.5 Lakhs |
Hyderabad | ₹ 5.7 Lakhs |
New Delhi | ₹ 8.9 Lakhs |
Kolkata | ₹ 6 Lakhs |
Gurgaon | ₹ 8.3 Lakhs |
Chennai | ₹ 6.4 Lakhs |
Logistics Analyst Salary based on Experience:
Experience | Salary |
2 Year | ₹ 4.3 Lakhs |
3 Year | ₹ 4.8 Lakhs |
5 Year | ₹ 7.1 Lakhs |
8 Year | ₹ 9.3 Lakhs |
10 Year | ₹ 12.2 Lakhs |
Logistics Analyst Salary based on Industry:
Industry | Salary |
IT Services & Consulting | ₹ 6.9 Lakhs |
Software Product | ₹ 8.4 Lakhs |
Internet | ₹ 6.4 Lakhs |
Financial Services | ₹ 6.5 Lakhs |
BPO & KPO | ₹ 6.6 Lakhs |
Factors that Impact Supply Chain Manager Salaries
- Education
Supply chain managers with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a specialized supply chain management degree, often command higher salaries. Educational qualifications not only showcase expertise but also signal commitment to the field.
- Experience
Experience is the golden ticket in the supply chain industry. Seasoned professionals who have weathered the storms of logistics, procurement, and distribution are highly valued. Supply chain managers with a wealth of experience are handsomely rewarded for their ability to navigate challenges and optimize processes, making them indispensable assets to organizations.
- Industry
The industry in which you work plays a pivotal role in determining your salary. Supply chain managers in sectors with intricate and demanding supply networks, such as pharmaceuticals or technology, often receive higher compensation due to the complexity of their roles. Research the industries that align with your interests and ambitions to maximize your earning potential.
- Geographic Location
Geography matters. Logistics and supply chain management salary of managers can vary significantly based on the region. For instance, working in a bustling metropolis may come with a higher cost of living, but it often translates to a more generous salary. Consider the geographical nuances of the job market and weigh them against your personal preferences and financial goals.
- Skills and Certifications
In the rapidly evolving supply chain landscape, possessing in-demand skills and certifications can catapult your earning potential. From expertise in data analytics to certifications in lean management, continuously honing your skills adds value to your profile. Employers are willing to pay a premium for professionals who bring a diverse skill set to the table.
How to Increase Your Supply Chain Management Salary?
- Evaluate Your Skills and Education
First of all evaluate your current skill set as well as educational background. After that, consider pursuing certifications or advanced degrees in supply chain management that help in enhancing the salary. Certifications like Certified Supply Chain Professional or Certified in Production and Inventory Management can enhance an individual expertise and make you more valuable to employers.
- Showcase Your Achievements
Next is to highlight your accomplishments in your resume and during job interviews. For that, take the help of specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve improved processes, reduced costs, or streamlined operations in your previous roles. Showcasing tangible achievements can set you apart from other candidates and justify a higher salary.
- Stay Informed About Industry Trends
Ensure to always stay updated with the latest news and technologies in supply chain management. For that ensure to attend conferences, webinars, and workshops to expand your knowledge. Being well-informed about industry innovations will make you a valuable asset to your organization, potentially leading to salary increments.
- Negotiate Effectively
When it comes to your salary, preparation is the key to success. Research salary benchmarks for your position in your industry and location. Clearly articulate your value to the company and be prepared to negotiate confidently. Practice your negotiation skills to ensure you are comfortable discussing compensation.
- Network Strategically
Build a strong professional network within the supply chain management community. Attend industry events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to new careers, mentorship, and insider knowledge about job openings that may offer higher salaries.
- Explore Specializations
Consider specializing in a niche area within supply chain management. Specializations such as logistics, procurement, or demand planning can make you a sought-after expert, increasing your value in the job market. Employers often pay a premium for specialists with in-depth knowledge and skills.
Supply Chain Management Career Path
Supply chain managers have a promising career path ahead of them. Most get promoted to a senior-level position, while others choose to opt for a General/Operations Manager’s position, or become a Supply Chain Specialist. Each role comes with a significant increase in salaries and job responsibilities.
Entry-level supply managers can also move to upper management and director roles.
As per the 2020 Logistics Management Annual Salary Survey, further education in the field, certification courses and training are the best way to make advancements in supply chain management.
A background in management, supply chain, transportation, etc are considered to be valuable while charting a path ahead.
- Specialist or Analyst Roles
If individuals have some experience, people often progress into specialized or analyst roles like transportation analyst, supply planner, or demand planner. These positions involve more focused and specialized responsibilities within specific segments of the supply chain. Here, professionals hone their expertise and contribute to the efficiency of critical supply chain functions.
- Supervisory or Managerial Roles
As skills and experience grow, the natural progression is into supervisory or managerial roles. Seasoned professionals may find themselves leading a team or overseeing entire supply chain processes as warehouse supervisors, procurement managers, or supply chain managers. It’s a phase where leadership and decision-making skills come to the forefront.
- Director or Executive Positions
For those who aspire to broader responsibilities, the next step may be director or executive positions. Here, individuals make strategic decisions, manage diverse supply chain operations, and shape the overall supply chain strategy of an organization. It’s about taking the helm and guiding the ship towards success.
- Leadership or C-level Positions
The pinnacle of a supply chain management career often involves reaching leadership or C-level positions. Individuals may find themselves in roles like vice president of the supply chain, chief supply chain officer (CSCO), or chief operating officer (COO). These positions demand high-level strategic planning, organizational leadership, and driving innovation throughout the entire supply chain. It’s the culmination of years of dedication and expertise in the dynamic world of supply chain management.
Read: Product management career path and its scope
Conclusion
Supply Chain Management was at the receiving end of major disruption at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the post-COVID world has seen tremendous growth in this sector.
As companies operations have restarted with renewed vigour, the requirement of individuals with experience in SCM is high. There hasn’t been a better time than now to opt for a career in supply chain management. So, go for it!
The best way to capitalize on this opportunity is to enroll in a certification program such as upGrad’s Global Master Certificate in Integrated Supply Chain Management.
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