Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is supply chain management?
Supply chain management is the identification, acquisition, staging and management of goods and services that an organization needs to achieve its strategic goals.  The overall objective of supply chain management is to enhance an organization’s operational and financial performance by delivering customers with the highest value goods and services at the lowest possible cost.  This is a critical business function that not only typically controls 35-70% of an organization’s costs, but also, manages a global supply chain spanning thousands of miles.

Why would I want to participate in the Anderson University Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Certificate?
The Anderson University Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Certificate program will provide a solid foundation of operations, logistics and purchasing coursework that one can use as a spring board into a dynamic, high-demand field.   Also, this coursework can prepare you for educational degrees and professional certifications in supply chain management.

What career opportunities does one have in supply chain management?
By pursuing a career in supply chain management, you create an opportunity to work in a variety of organizations and businesses.  Every industry -- whether manufacturing or service, governmental, educational or retail -- employs supply management professionals.  Common position titles in this business function are:  operations manager, buyer, sourcing manager, commodity specialist, supplier development specialist, material planner, inventory coordinator, and logistics analyst. 

How will the Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Certificate program benefit employers?
The third largest and fastest growing industry in Central Indiana is logistics and physical distribution, where a solid understanding of supply chain management principles is paramount.  Regional employers in this industry are citing shortages of qualified candidates to meet their growth, and are often recruiting talent from other states.  In a knowledge-based economy, a skilled supply chain management workforce becomes an extremely valuable resource and provides strategic competitive advantage.  The Anderson University Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Certificate program is something potential employers will value.

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