International Business
IB Careers in Supply Chain Management
There are numerous opportunities for international business careers in the field of supply chain management. Career titles may include purchasing administrator, freight forwarder, customs broker, global logistics manager and supply chain analyst.
Purchasing Administrator
Description:
Obtains raw materials and finished goods from foreign and domestic suppliers by tracking conditions in foreign locations; identifying and qualifying suppliers; negotiating contracts; maintaining records.
Duties:
- Knowledge of import/export documentation (NAFTA/CAFTA).
- Determines materials requirements by studying production plans and product specifications.
- Locates foreign and domestic suppliers by researching producers; visiting facilities (occasionally); discussing production, price, quality, service, and payment terms.
Global Logistics Manager
Description:
The Global Logistics Manager will develop and execute a Global Logistics Network. The global and group level nature of this role presents significant challenges. The fact that facilities, suppliers, and customers are located in several countries throughout the world makes it challenging to optimize the material flow. Ensuring an efficient logistics network is in place to support the broadly based customers' needs, especially in a business growth cycle, are a significant challenge.
Duties:
- Develop and execute the most efficient Global Logistics Network. This includes inbound materials and outbound customer shipments as well as inter-site transfers.
- Effectively manage import and export compliance with respective regulatory agencies worldwide.
- Develop the Global Logistics Strategy and implement optimum logistic network that minimizes material handling and freight cost across business sectors.
Supply Chain Analyst
Description:
The Supply Chain Analyst position formulates and implements supplier strategies regarding pricing, supplier development and performance, value-added service, and continuous improvement. This position also takes a lead in working across the supply chain system and company stakeholders with the goal of minimizing the cost of purchased materials and services across all areas of the company.
Duties:
- Identifies potential suppliers (both domestic and international) around specific business needs.
- Stays current and applies knowledge of international business climates, commodity markets and pricing trends.
- Conducts research to identify savings and services opportunities around assigned commodities and uses this knowledge to support the development of company-wide strategies.
Research IB Careers in SCM on the following websites:
SCM Trade Journals:
Global Logistics & Supply Chain Systems
SCM Related Certification Programs:
APICS - Certified Supply Chain Professional
http://www.apics.org/certification/CSCP/default.htm
Customs Broker License
http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/trade_programs/broker/broker_exam/
Sample of GVSU SCM Employers:
Information about the Seidman SCM major.
Page last modified April 25, 2012
