Careers
What can you do with a graduate degree or certificate in Supply Chain Management?
UConn School of Business' Graduate Programs in Supply Chain Management prepare you for global careers in logistics, procurement, operations, and analytics. Excel in roles such as supply chain analyst, operations manager, procurement specialist, and logistics manager at Fortune 500 companies and beyond. With advanced training in strategic planning, data-driven decision making, and process optimization, you'll gain the tools to design resilient, efficient supply chains that respond to global disruptions and evolving customer demands.
How can I start a career in supply chain management?
A career in supply chain management starts with building a solid foundation in logistics, analytics, and business strategy. Obtaining a master’s degree or a graduate certificate in supply chain management is an excellent way to acquire the technical skills and industry knowledge that employers seek. Additionally, networking with professionals, attending industry events, and securing internships can offer valuable hands-on experience and help you establish connections in the field.
Career Opportunities Abound
You can put your MS in Supply Chain Management (MSSCM) to work in a diverse range of in-demand, high-impact career opportunities here in Connecticut, throughout the U.S., and worldwide, such as:
Supply Chain Manager
Supply chain managers coordinate the movement of goods, materials, and information to enhance efficiency and increase profitability for the company. They oversee and optimize sourcing, procurement, production, and distribution strategies by tackling logistics and inventory challenges such as streamlining transportation routes and managing warehousing and distribution processes.
Supply Chain Data Analyst
A supply chain data analyst monitors key supply chain metrics, such as inventory levels, lead times, and logistics costs. Using technologies like Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing (SAP), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, Microsoft Visio, and SQL, they analyze data to enhance supply chain operations such as inventory management, transportation, or procurement.
Operations Manager
Operations managers oversee various aspects of supply chain operations, ensuring that processes from procurement to delivery align with organizational goals. They lead cross-functional teams, including third-party logistics (3PL) providers and vendor partners, manage budgets, and develop agile strategies and workflows to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality across global operations.
Procurement Manager
Procurement managers oversee purchasing activities, negotiating contracts, and evaluating suppliers to secure cost-effective, high-quality materials. They ensure compliance with company standards while developing strategies to mitigate risks. This role requires expertise in supply chain analytics and the execution of detailed processes for data collection and task management.
Logistics Manager
A logistics manager coordinates and optimizes the storage and distribution of goods to ensure products move efficiently from suppliers to customers. They analyze supply chain processes, implement cost-reduction strategies, and manage relationships with suppliers, transportation providers, and customers to help organizations meet consumer demands and achieve optimal returns on investment.
Inventory Planner/Manager
Inventory planners/managers ensure efficient inventory flow from initial allocation through the entire lifecycle, including replenishment, return-to-warehouse (RTW), and transfers to other stores and channels. They develop and maintain demand forecasts using historical data, market trends, and input from merchandising, sales, and operations teams to align inventory levels with business objectives and financial goals.
Supply Chain Analytics Manager
The supply chain analytics manager evaluates global supply chain performance to enhance operational agility and precision. They lead initiatives to optimize inventory levels, reduce waste, and improve customer service through advanced forecasting methods and demand planning systems. They negotiate vendor contracts, manage supplier performance, and develop long-term sourcing strategies for critical materials, leveraging market trend analysis and pricing fluctuations to save cost and mitigate risk.
Director of Supply Chain Operations
The director of supply chain operations leads the strategic planning, execution, and optimization of supply chain activities. They oversee demand forecasting, inventory control, and supplier management to maintain high service levels while minimizing risk and complying with global procurement standards. They facilitate Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) processes to align demand, supply, and financial objectives, manage New Product Introduction (NPI) initiatives, and leverage advanced analytical tools to guide decision-making.
Logistics Coordinator
Logistics coordinators oversee the movement of goods by coordinating transportation, fostering relationships with vendors, and managing shipment schedules to satisfy both customer needs and business requirements. They prepare and maintain comprehensive reports on shipments, inventory, and order fulfillment while also implementing logistics software to enhance supply chain processes.
Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO)
The chief supply chain officer (CSCO) is responsible for leading the strategic vision and operational execution of the entire supply chain process, ensuring efficiency, agility, and resilience in a constantly changing business environment. They drive innovation through technologies like AI, optimize global operations for scalability, and build high-performing teams by encouraging continuous improvement and addressing workforce needs with effective talent strategies. A key leader in the organization, they align supply chain operations with overall business goals, collaborate closely with R&D and engineering teams to successfully bring new products to market, and support sustainability and ESG initiatives.Embedded Career Support at UConn
The UConn School of Business Office of Graduate Career & Professional Development will serve as your partner in aligning your business skills, values, and professional experiences with a meaningful career. The career development office will pair you with a personal career coach, who will work 1:1 with you to set strategic personal career goals, further broaden your academic expertise, and identify the skillset needed to accelerate your career. They will work with you to hone your networking, job-seeking, and interviewing skills. By enrolling in the MSSCM program, students gain access to the following:
- Tailored career coaching, including access to resources exclusively crafted for students interested in opportunities related to business analytics, data science, project management, supply chain analytics, and more
- Dedicated job search tools, such as 12Twenty, through which corporate partner-based opportunities are directly shared with students
- Invitations to marquee events, including Career Nights, Career Expos, and an annual Graduate Career Conference
- Professional development resources, available virtually to support students through interview preparation, industry research, and more
