Supply chain managers plan, manage and coordinate all activities related to the sourcing and procurement of supplies needed to run manufacturing operations from the acquisition of raw materials to the distribution of finished products. The supplies can be raw materials or finished products, and it can be for internal or external use. Moreover, they plan and commission all the activities needed to be performed in manufacturing plants and adjust operations to changing levels of demand for a company's products.

Tasks

Tasks include -
(a) Determining, implementing and monitoring purchasing, storage and distribution strategies, policies and plans;
(b) Preparing and implementing plans to maintain required stock levels at minimum cost;
(c) Negotiating contracts with suppliers to meet quality, cost and delivery requirements;
(d) Monitoring and reviewing storage and inventory systems to meet supply requirements and control stock levels;
(e) Overseeing the dispatch of road vehicles, trains, vessels or aircraft;
(f) Operating recording systems to track all movements of goods, and ensuring reordering and restocking at optimal times;
(g) Liaising with other departments and customers concerning requirements for outward goods and associated forwarding transportation;
(h) Overseeing the recording of purchase, storage and distribution transactions;
(i) Establishing and managing budgets, controlling expenditure and ensuring the efficient use of resources;
(j) Establishing and directing operational and administrative procedures;
(k) Planning and directing daily operations;
(l) Overseeing the selection, training and performance of staff.