From Entry-Level to Executive: The Supply Chain Salary Scale
A company’s supply chain efficiency can directly impact its bottom line, making those with supply chain management skills very desirable among employers. This aligns with the projected job growth for this position, with 68,700 jobs expected to become available between now and 2031.
The responsibilities of a supply chain manager include planning, coordinating, and controlling the flow of goods, services, and information from raw materials to end customers. They’re essentially in charge of a product’s entire life cycle! And with these responsibilities comes the all-important question of compensation.
Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of the supply chain manager salary scale. This insider knowledge will help determine whether this career pathway meets your professional and financial goals.
What is the Average Supply Chain Manager Salary?
Before we begin, it’s important to note that the title “supply chain manager” can often be synonymous with other professional designations such as head logistician, operations manager, procurement manager, supply analyst, supplier manager, inventory manager, freight and transportation specialist, warehouse coordinator, etc.
This occurs because supply chain managers have a versatile skillset that can be valuable across a broad spectrum of industries and positions. This versatility, as well as one’s level of knowledge and experience, can affect earning potential.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the more in-depth salary expectations for entry-level to executive-level positions in supply chain management.
Entry-Level Supply Chain Positions
Average Experience Required: 0-1 years
Entry-level supply chain roles are the starting point for many professionals in this industry, with some common positions being procurement coordinator, logistics coordinator, and inventory planner.
These roles are designed to help newcomers gain the foundational skills and experience they need to understand the intricacies of chain businesses.
Typical Salary Range
According to data from Payscale, the pay range for entry-level supply chain positions generally falls between $40,000 and $60,000 per year, with an average salary of around $56,000.
For example, the average salary for a logistics coordinator is around $42,890 per year, while a procurement coordinator can earn roughly $55,688.
Job Responsibilities and Required Skills
Entry-level positions can come with a variety of business duties, including:
- Coordinating purchasing activities to ensure the timely and accurate acquisition of materials.
- Managing logistics to facilitate the smooth transit and distribution of goods.
- Maintaining inventory records and ensuring stock levels are appropriate.
Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential for these roles. A foundational understanding of supply chain software and tools is also advantageous.
Mid-Level Supply Chain Positions
Average Experience Required: 1-4 Years
With experience, workers may progress to mid-level roles such as supply chain analyst, merchandise planning manager, or logistics manager. These positions are more strategic, often requiring a diploma, bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent in relevant experience, and involve a higher degree of responsibility.
Typical Salary Range
The salary for mid-level positions typically ranges from $50,000 to $81,000 per year, with the average salary sitting at $73,619.
For instance, according to Payscale, the average salary for a logistics manager is around $67,394 per year, while a merchandise planning manager can earn roughly $80,377 annually.
Job Responsibilities and Required Skills
Mid-level professionals are often tasked with the following:
- Analyzing data to improve supply chain efficiency.
- Managing relationships with suppliers, providers, and transportation teams.
- Developing strategies to reduce costs and improve service levels.
The skill sets required for these positions typically include advanced analytical skills, project management experience, and proficiency in supply chain software such as SAP and Oracle.
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Senior Supply Chain Positions
Average Experience Required: 5-9 Years
Senior roles, such as senior chain manager or operations manager, require extensive experience and a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics. These positions often involve the high-level overseeing the operations of a company’s entire supply network.
Typical Salary Range
The pay for senior supply chain manager positions generally falls between $75,000 and $105,000 per year, with an average salary of around $86,506.
In Canada, the average salary for an operations manager is around $80,796 per year, while a senior chain manager can earn upwards of $102,500.
Job Responsibilities and Required Skills
The level of responsibility needed at a senior level is high and includes:
- Leading supply strategy and execution, ensuring the process is seamless.
- Managing budgets and the financial performance of the business.
- Coordinating cross-functional teams to ensure supply chain efficiency.
Required skills for senior positions include leadership abilities, strategic thinking, and expertise in supply chain management systems.
Executive Supply Chain Positions
Average Experience Required: 10+ Years
At the executive level, roles such as supply chain director or vice president of operations become an option. These positions require a blend of extensive experience, advanced education, and strong leadership capabilities.
Typical Salary Range
According to data from Payscale, executive supply chain manager positions typically offer salaries ranging from $103,000 to $140,000 per year, with an average salary of around $115,209.
For example, the average salary for a supply chain director is $120,687 per year, while the vice president of operations at a company may earn up to $138,647 annually.
Job Responsibilities and Required Skills
Job responsibilities for executive roles include:
- Setting the vision and strategy for the supply chain department.
- Overseeing large teams and multiple supply chain functions.
- Negotiating high-stakes contracts and partnerships.
Skills required at the executive level include advanced leadership capabilities, strategic vision, and a comprehensive understanding of global supply chain operations.
Factors Affecting Supply Chain Manager Salaries
Several considerations should be accounted for that can impact one’s earnings as a supply chain manager.
By examining these factors, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the supply chain management profession and how they can impact earning potential.
- Location. Salaries can vary significantly based on geographic location. For instance, supply chain managers in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living typically earn more.
- Industry. Different industries offer varying salary scales. Sectors like pharmaceuticals, technology, and aerospace tend to provide higher salaries compared to retail or manufacturing.
- Company Size. Larger companies often have more complex supply chains and typically offer higher salaries to attract top talent with the necessary knowledge and experience.
- Education and Certifications. Advanced degrees, diplomas, and certifications, such as Career City’s Supply Chain Management Diploma, allow candidates to be more competitive in their desired field and command higher salaries.
- Experience and Achievements. Proven experience and significant achievements in previous roles can dramatically increase earning potential. Professionals known for optimizing supply chains and reducing costs often procure higher salaries.
- Expected Growth. According to the Job Bank of Canada, the demand for skilled supply chain professionals will continue to grow in the coming years. This growth is driven by the increasing complexity of global supply chains and the need for companies to optimize their operations to remain competitive.
Jumpstart Your Career as a Supply Chain Manager at Career City College
From entry-level positions with salaries around $40,000 to executive roles exceeding $130,000, there’s a clear pathway to success for entering supply chain management.
Are you eager to know the next step? Check out Career City College’s Supply Chain Management Diploma program! It’s designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this dynamic field.
