The roles available for professionals looking to work and progress in procurement and supply chain management are varied, which is why we aim to shed some light on what can be expected by professionals considering those positions. In this procurement role spotlight blog, we look at the role of the Supply Chain Analyst.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Supply Chain Analyst

The Supply Chain Analyst role differs from industry to industry, but some of the general roles and responsibilities that echo throughout the purchasing profession may include:

  • Collects and analyses relevant data from the supply chain, including costs, patterns in demand, productivity and more.
  • Highlight issues and areas of improvement and come up with tangible solutions.
  • Monitor the operations and deliver regular reports to key stakeholders.
  • Ensures logistics service providers are all continuously compliant with negotiated contract terms.
  • Offers support on analytics for new proposals and projects.
  • Manages supply chain activities including delivery schedules, checking warehouse inventories and creating orders.

The Skills and Qualifications of a Supply Chain Analyst

The skills needed will differ depending on the industry, but as a general rule a supply chain anaylyst should have the following skills:

  • Strong analytical skills.
  • Familiarity with production concepts and logistics.
  • Excellent computer skills.
  • Understanding of databases, spreadsheets, stats applications and logistics software.
  • Knowledge of contracts and tariffs.
  • Good communication skills and ability to express findings, share recommendations and implement necessary changes.
  • Ability to manage projects and communicate with individuals at all levels within the organisation.

Qualifications wise, the CIPS Diploma in Procurement and Supply is recognised across the industry and is ideal for anyone looking to enter into an entry level buying role. The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply have created their varying diploma levels to provide candidates with the skills and knowledge needed to perform in procurement and employers look favourably on those who have the qualification; for some it is even a requirement.

Salaries, Working Hours and Opportunities For Progression

Typically a supply chain analyst position will see you working normal office hours, 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. However, depending on the industry, these hours may differ slightly to fit in with supplier working hours and additional hours may be worked when new product/service ranges are being launched.

As a supply chain analyst, annual salaries for entry level positions start at around £18k depending on location, and can rise to up to £35k with role-based promotions, when experience rises and additional responsibilities are added and with attractive bonuses and benefits packages you could earn up to £40k.

Ready to deepen your procurement expertise? Explore our CIPS courses today and understand how suppliers should be conducting business within all tiers of their supply chain from sustainability to human rights. Contact us to learn more and enrol today!