What Does a Supply Chain Analyst Do?

From the coffee beans used to brew a morning cup of coffee to the parts that go into building a car, supply chains are responsible for the entire journey of a product — from raw materials to finished goods. Every industry relies on a well-coordinated system to effectively source materials, turn them into products and then deliver those products. This process, known as supply chain management, keeps industries of all sorts running.

At the heart of these systems is the supply chain analyst, a professional who uses data to identify inefficiencies and optimize processes. Those looking to enter this fast-growing field can earn a degree in supply chain management to gain the skills necessary to excel in the role.

Supply Chain Analyst Job Description

Supply chain analysts are the brains behind companies’ logistics strategies. These professionals help ensure that the right products get to the right place at the right time — and in the most cost-effective way.

Whether working for a retail giant ensuring shelves are stocked or a tech manufacturer sourcing components for new devices, supply chain analysts play a vital role in keeping businesses running smoothly.

A range of industries rely on supply chain analysts including retail, manufacturing, health care and technology. The automotive, pharmaceutical and food and beverage industries also depend heavily on the expertise of supply chain analysts to ensure timely product delivery, identify solutions to bottlenecks and minimize waste.

Without supply chain analysts’ expertise, inefficiencies in supply chains could result in huge financial losses for businesses.

How to Become a Supply Chain Analyst

Becoming a successful supply chain analyst requires a combination of education and experience to develop the skills necessary for the job’s demands. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of efficient supply chains, the demand for skilled professionals has surged, contributing to a supply chain talent shortage. This shortage creates ample opportunities for individuals with the right training and expertise to step into this crucial role.

Aspiring supply chain analysts can take the following steps to gain the knowledge and experience necessary to enter this rewarding career.

Step One: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management

Supply chain analysts need to earn a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management. This degree provides essential knowledge of quality management, strategic procurement, data analysis and operations management — all critical skills for excelling in the role.

Courses in supply chain strategy, inventory control and business analytics prepare graduates to make data-driven decisions and manage complex supply chain systems. The degree also opens doors to a variety of supply chain management careers.

Step Two: Gain Practical Experience

After earning a degree, many aspiring supply chain analysts gain experience through internships and entry-level positions. Hands-on experience allows individuals to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios and better understand the complexity of supply chains.

Common entry-level positions include supply chain coordinators, procurement assistants and operations assistants. Many supply chain analysts start their careers by interning at reputable companies known for their supply chain operations. Some options for finding internships include the following:

• University career centers

• Job search websites

• Supply chain industry events

• Corporate websites

Step Three: Develop Analytical and Technical Skills

Mastering data analysis tools such as spreadsheet applications, SQL software applications used to analyze large sets of data and supply chain management software helps professionals excel in this role.

Supply chain analysts frequently use specialized software to track and evaluate performance across the supply chain. Proficiency in these tools allows analysts to identify trends and optimize processes effectively.

Though not necessarily required, supply chain analysts may also consider obtaining certifications to validate their skills to prospective employers. Certifications that can improve a supply chain analyst’s job prospects include the following:

• SCPro Council of Supply Chain Management Fundamentals: Offers a foundational understanding of supply chain management, covering logistics, procurement and core principles of supply chain management.

• ASCM Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM): Focused on production planning and inventory management.

• ASCM Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP): Provides a broad understanding of global supply chains, operations and logistics.

Salary and Job Outlook

Logisticians, a category that includes supply chain analysts, earned median annual salaries of $79,400 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Top earners made more than $128,000 a year.

BLS data suggests supply chain analysts can expect a promising job market in the years to come, with an impressive 19% growth rate between 2023 and 2033. That’s almost five times as fast as the average 4% job growth rate.

Unlock Your Future in Supply Chain Management

A career as a supply chain analyst offers more than just a job — it’s an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of how products get to people and solve real-world challenges. The App State Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Supply Chain Management can help students gain the skills and hands-on experience necessary to thrive in an in-demand field. Our program is flexible and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, providing a high quality education for students who want to gain a strong foundation in supply chain management at their own pace.

Whether you’re passionate about logistics or making processes more efficient, this degree can open doors to a rewarding career. Explore how App Stat Online’s BSBA in Supply Chain Management can serve as a first step toward a successful career in supply chain management.

Recommended Readings

Understanding Global Supply Chain Management

What Can I Do With a Supply Chain Management Degree?

What Is a Logistics Coordinator?

Sources:

Cambridge Spark, “How Data Analytics Is Transforming Supply Chain Efficiency”

CIO, “The Top 15 Supply Chain Management Certifications”

Indeed, “Supply Chain Analyst Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications”

Investopedia, “The Supply Chain: From Raw Materials to Order Fulfillment”

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Logisticians