Logistics & Supply Chain Management

Overview:

Those in Logistics and Supply Chain Management positions are responsible for overseeing the execution of factory or customer deliveries, freight quotations, onsite pickup, and overflow and direct-to-port. They also are in charge of implementing the contractual, regulatory and strategic supply chain goals of a company.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Develop and manage a logistics plan for the business unit, including road, rail and coastal shipping transportation, to develop least cost supply chain strategies, short and medium term
• Review sources of supply and service provider contractual terms in order to develop alternatives if required
• Develop the plan to ensure least cost path for material management
• Utilize freight and product storage contracts, key customer and supplier records of performance and sales/supply information
• Proactively manage the delivery/receivable schedule to meet sales and purchase contractual terms
• Proactively manage product deficiencies, including reordering, rejection, breakdowns, contamination, delays etc.
• Set guidelines to ensure that goods, materials or services purchased are of the quality specified
• Undertake major contract negotiations within the approved pricing policy and establish service programs
• Utilize measurement processes to schedule service
• Address issues if economies are not exercised to achieve schedules to meet delivery requirements
• Budget responsibility for the department
• Proactively work with the logistics team for agreed timing of services

What education and training is required?

Bachelors or Master’s degree in Agricultural Business/Economics.

To pursue a career as in Logistics & Supply Chain Management:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, science and mathematics.

Typical Employers:

Integrated animal production companies, seed/fertilizer/chemical dealers/producers, food production companies and equipment manufactures.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for positions in Logistics and Supply Chain is projected to be excellent.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• American Soybean Association
• National Corn Growers Association
• Association of Agriculture Economist
• Mid-America International Agri-Trade Council
• Produce Marketing Association