Supply Chain Associate

A Supply Chain Associate ensures smooth supply chain operations by tracking inventory, managing shipments to production and meeting distribution and sales goals.

Supply Chain Associate Job Description

Review and register vendor contracts.

Schedule deliveries and monitor shipments.

Check shipped loads for inventory accuracy.

Process customer orders and ensure they are accurate.

Collaborate with logistics personnel to ensure that orders are fully met.

Analyse Supply Chain data to identify trends, forecast demand, and optimise inventory levels.

Coordinate with suppliers to resolve issues related to quality, delivery delays, and invoicing discrepancies.

Implement improvements in Supply Chain processes to increase efficiency and reduce costs.

Maintain accurate records of all Supply Chain transactions, including procurement, storage, and distribution activities.

Note

Supply Chain Associates streamline operations, overseeing procurement to delivery. They analyse market trends to forecast needs, manage supplier relationships, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards, enhancing the supply chain's responsiveness and reliability.

What you should know about Supply Chain Associate jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Supply Chain Associates, you will be greatly sought after in the job market as you will function as an expert in Supply Chain operations and ERP systems.

Key Advice

In Retail, be prepared for 24/7 on-call duties and working outside standard hours, including nights and weekends, due to its non-stop nature.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in Business, International Trade or Supply Chain & Logistics is preferred.

Proficiency in Supply Chain Management software, such as SAP SCM, Oracle SCM Cloud, or similar systems, to efficiently manage and analyse Supply Chain operations.

Experience with inventory management practices and techniques, including Just-In-Time (JIT) inventory, to minimise stock holding costs and maximise space utilisation.

Must have relevant certifications like the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from APICS or similar credentials.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Supply Chain Associate career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Sales Techniques

Ability to apply strategic sales techniques to boost transactions and improve processes.

Computer Skills

Able to navigate advanced Supply Chain software to streamline operations.

General Knowledge of Products

Possesses comprehensive knowledge of inventory details and variations.

Soft Skills

Customer Service

Ability to provide top-tier customer service, ensuring satisfaction and building loyalty.

Analytical Skills

Ability to utilise data analysis to identify and implement Supply Chain efficiencies.

Time-Management

Excellent at time-management techniques, ensuring all tasks are completed by deadlines.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are Supply Chain Associates able to venture out of the sector in the future?

Yes! The skills they learn as Supply Chain Associates are highly transferable and they may find themselves working for a variety of organisations - from small firms and large chain stores to manufacturers and charities.
What is the working environment like for Supply Chain Associates?

Supply Chain Associates often work in the office where they organise vendor contracts, review them for accuracy and ensure they include all the materials and products needed. Once the vendor order has been placed, they schedule delivery timings, track shipments, and take inventory for delivered loads to ensure everything is in the order.
How do Supply Chain Associates deal with the situation if their stores run out of stock?

Firstly, they notify buyers of the shortage of stocks, then contact suppliers to request more, get an Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) from the supplier, and then notify the buyers on the ETA and when they may collect their item.
What is the difference between Logistics and Supply Chain Management?

Supply Chain Management covers a wide range of activities, including planning, sourcing materials, labour and facilities management, and producing and delivering those goods and services. On the other hand, Logistics focuses on the efficient and cost-effective delivery of goods to the customer.
How do Supply Chain Associates build relationships with vendors, both locally and abroad?

Some ways they build relationships with vendors is by always paying them on time, understanding their cultures if they are overseas vendors, and most importantly talking to them regularly, as a relationship cannot be built without communicating.