Page 39 - Logistics News - September October 2023

TH O UGHT LEAD ERS HIP

Navigating the SCM career path:

Balancing degrees and professional certifications

By Nikita Reddy, MANCOSA Academic, SAPICS Board Member

With the increasing complexity of global supply chains, supply chain management

(SCM) has become a lucrative career option. Aspiring professionals frequently ponder

the relationship between obtaining a degree and professional certifications. Here, we
examine the SCM career path and the importance of both.

he changing SCM field has evolved from a traditional employers. In addition, certifications frequently necessitate
logistics-focused discipline to a strategic and continuing education and renewal, ensuring that professionals
T interdisciplinary one where supply chain professionals remain current with the most recent industry trends and best
must be able to adapt to technological advances, globalisation practices.
and ever-changing customer demands.
Achieving the balance
The importance of degrees The optimal strategy for developing a successful career in SCM
A degree in SCM, logistics, operations management or a closely involves striking a balance between academic degrees and

related field provides a solid foundation for a career in SCM. A professional certifications. Both paths offer distinct benefits and
bachelor’s degree equips individuals with essential knowledge, complement one another in the professional’s journey.
analytical skills and a comprehensive understanding of supply
chain operations principles and best practices. A master’s Academic degrees provide a thorough understanding of
degree, such as a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) the discipline and cultivate critical thinking skills and a broad
or Master’s of Commerce (MCom) with a concentration in perspective. They prepare individuals to acclimatise to the
SCM, provides a more in-depth comprehension of strategic ever-changing demands of the SCM profession. Pursuing a
management, supply chain optimisation and leadership degree early in one’s career establishes a solid foundation,
abilities. An academic degree in SCM provides a curriculum allowing professionals to effectively address complex supply
structure that encompasses fundamental ideas, frameworks chain challenges. Professional certifications, on the other hand,

and case studies. Internships and projects provide students provide targeted and specialised knowledge that supplements
with opportunities to collaborate, network and acquire industry the broader knowledge acquired through academic degrees.
exposure. In addition, a degree frequently increases one’s They enable professionals to develop expertise in specific

credibility, particularly when beginning a career or pursuing areas of SCM, demonstrating a commitment to continuous

leadership positions within an organisation. development and maintaining relevance in a field that is
constantly evolving. Certifications are particularly advantageous

The value of professional certifications for professionals attempting to advance their careers, specialise

While academic degrees provide a firm foundation, professional in a specific domain or transition to a new role within SCM.
certifications in SCM validate expertise and demonstrate a

commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. In conclusion, SCM careers offer numerous opportunities
Typically offered by industry organisations and institutions, for growth, innovation and influence. Individuals must establish

certifications are tailored to address specific SCM domains or a balance between academic degrees and professional

skill sets. They equip professionals with specialised knowledge certifications to navigate this field successfully. Academic

and abilities in fields like procurement, logistics, inventory degrees provide a firm foundation, whereas professional

management and supply chain analytics. These certifications certifications augment specialised knowledge and validate

provide a competitive advantage by demonstrating expertise in expertise. Professionals can position themselves as highly
a specific domain, demonstrating a commitment to professional competent, adaptable and in-demand supply chain leaders by

development and enhancing marketability to prospective pursuing both paths. •
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