Staying current with trends and developments is critical to building a successful career in supply chain management.
Technology is bringing massive changes in the supply chain industry, and professionals must build these skills to remain competitive.
This article will discuss the future of supply chain, whether this is a good career choice for 2025 and beyond, and more so you can decide if this is the career for you.
What is the future of supply chain management?
Supply chain management has evolved significantly over the past couple of decades, and with technological advancements, it is even more so now. This digital transformation brings many changes—several are already in place, and others are predicted to happen in the near future.
Here are some of the most significant changes.
AI and advanced data analytics
AI and machine learning are becoming a big part of supply chain management. These technologies not only help to streamline processes, but they also help digest large amounts of data and reduce human errors. As a result, they help with:
- Demand forecasting: Companies can quickly analyse and understand customer buying patterns and supply fluctuations. As a result, it is far simpler to make accurate demand predictions that significantly reduce waste.
- Risk assessment: AI can also monitor the current market and international supply chain landscape, including geographical events and supplier behaviours, to determine and prevent risks.
- Logistics optimisation: AI in supply chain management can determine different delivery routes and save time and fuel costs. This helps companies reduce spending and aids the environment with less fuel emissions.
Automation and robotics
Automation and robotics are stepping in to tackle labour shortfalls and inefficiencies. These technologies are becoming more prevalent in warehouses and production lines.
- Warehouse robotics: Autonomous robots handle packing, picking, and sorting tasks. This reduces manual labour and improves accuracy.
- Autonomous vehicles: Self-driving vehicles are also becoming more common in the supply chain industry, with self-driving trucks playing a more prominent role in last-mile delivery. Big companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL are testing autonomous driving systems.
- Labour shift: Robotics allows companies to bridge worker shortages and improve overall productivity as these technologies can work for extended periods. However, instead of replacing the workforce, they complement it by automating repetitive tasks.
Digital supply networks and cloud solutions
Traditional linear supply chains are evolving into interconnected Digital Supply Networks (DSNs), ensuring all stakeholders are always on the same page.
- Real-time insights: By connecting IoT sensors to DSNs, firms can get instant updates on inventory levels, product conditions, and shipment locations.
- Cloud-based computing platforms: Cloud computing allows data to be shared among suppliers, manufacturers, and customers. This will enable customers to know where their purchases are at all times, even internationally.
Is a supply chain career a good idea for the future?
While the supply chain is undergoing significant changes, choosing a career in this field is still smart. As industries become more integrated and global, the demand for professionals skilled in logistics, supply chain, and relevant technologies will continue to increase.
Furthermore, technological advancements in this field are expanding career opportunities across industries, from manufacturing to retail and healthcare.
Here are some of the main benefits of pursuing a career in the supply chain:
Diverse roles
Supply chains need experts in everything from procurement to inventory management and data analytics, opening the door to many career opportunities. Some new careers that are on the rise include:
- Supply Chain Transformation Manager
- Regional Logistics and Distribution Manager
- Sustainable Procurement Specialist
- Supply Chain Data Analysis
- AI-Powered Demand Forecaster
- Traceability Analyst
- Supply Chain Communicators
Job security
As mentioned earlier, the supply chain is becoming increasingly globalised and national companies are working with international companies. As a result, more skilled supply chain professionals are needed to manage these complex supply chains.
This creates job security and also allows employees to immigrate if the need arises. This is especially true if you pursue an internationally accredited BCom in Supply Chain Management.
High salaries
The advancement of technologies in the supply chain brings with it many challenges. As a result, supply chain professionals are often under pressure and need to think fast, which can result in higher salary potential.
Across the supply chain, salaries for roles in this field often surpass those of other industries, especially for more senior roles.
Skills in high demand
Companies are constantly looking for supply chain professionals with technical skills, such as data analysis and proficiency in supply chain automation tools.
If you gain technological skills, this is even better since you will have a competitive advantage over other candidates who do not have these abilities.
The best way to build these skills is to pursue a BCom in Supply Chain Management that is current with supply chain trends and developments.
The right degree can set you up for career success and teach you the fundamental and technical abilities you need to grow your supply chain career to unimaginable heights.
FAQ
How is AI transforming supply chain operations?
Artificial intelligence enhances efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making. It can help processes run smoother, determine inventory needs, predict future changes, and more. Ultimately, this saves costs and can also aid in sustainability.
This allows small and large companies worldwide to enhance their supply chain operations with technology that was once out of reach.
What is the role of blockchain in supply chain transparency?
Blockchain plays a vital role in supply chain visibility. It allows each transaction to be documented chronologically, which is instrumental in industries where products such as food and medicine can directly impact safety.
It also helps prevent fraud by storing records on distribution, which makes unauthorised changes almost impossible.
How does digital transformation impact global supply chains?
Due to different technologies, the supply chain now has real-time connectivity, meaning the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud technologies can provide instant insights across the globe. For example, smart sensors on shipping containers can report location.
Digitisation also reduces labour-intensive processes, which can significantly reduce costs. AI can also forecast potential disruptions, allowing businesses to respond quickly and avoid disasters.
Study supply chain management at REGENT
As you see, the supply chain has significantly shifted and continues to evolve alongside technology. Taking a course that covers foundational practices and also teaches technical abilities is critical for a successful career.
You can look at REGENT’s Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management to see if it is the right programme for you. If you are looking to shift or advance your career in the supply chain, you can also consider the Postgraduate Diploma in Supply Chain Management.
