Supply chain data analyst
A single supply chain for one product can be a pretty complex thing, but when a manufacturer has dozens of different products and components to move, small inefficiencies can multiply into large black holes on the balance sheet. That’s why the supply chain data analyst is such a crucial role in a busy firm. They will use their experience and digital skills to perform supply chain data analytics on the whole process, seeking out those costly inefficiencies.
What happens once such failings have been found depends on the issue at hand, the specific role and the structure of the company. Most of the time, the supply chain analyst will report their findings to management, as the remedial actions might require re-negotiation of contracts or major restructuring of activities – if these are needed. Other times, the analyst might have some authority to put in place fixes, and report their discoveries and results to the board.
Whatever the specifics of the position, the supply chain data analyst will work alongside the logistics and supply chain teams, and often with external customers and suppliers, searching out ways to increase profitability given the copious amounts of data available. They might also be involved with projecting figures for supply chains that are still at the proposal stage.
The skills required
First and foremost, the supply chain analyst will have a solid background in logistics and/or supply chain, and will completely understand how the industry works. That’s crucial for understanding the possibilities and limitations of the remedial work you can perform.
You should be skilled at using the major supply chain software packages so you can take deep dives into the stats, but you may well find most of your time poring over Excel sheets that you have created or which have been created by someone else. Either way, you’ll need to be a data analytics master, able to interpret trends, patterns and opportunities from an array of digital sources. Finally, you’ll be able to communicate complex solutions to management to justify your decisions.
Supply chain data analyst Jobs in the West Midlands
Comprising seven metropolitan boroughs - the city of Birmingham, the City of Coventry, Dudley, Solihull, Sandwell, Walsall and the City of Wolverhampton, the West Midlands is an English county with plenty of opportunities for those seeking Supply chain data analyst vacancies.
Throughout history, the region has been known for its commerce and industry. During the Middle Ages, wool and cloth manufacture brought a significant amount of wealth to the West Midlands, particularly in Coventry.
By the 1700s, metalworking, small arms manufacture and mining were all important for the local economy, and this expanded to include bicycle building during the Industrial Revolution and beyond. In addition, two large banks - Lloyds and Midlands Bank (which later became HSBC) were both founded in the region during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Fast forward to today and the West Midlands is thriving. Birmingham, which vies with Manchester for the title of Britain's second city, has been called one of the best places in the country to have a business and it seems that big companies agree.
From finance and media, to manufacturing, engineering, tourism, retail and the service sector, there are many well-known organisations with headquarters or other large facilities in the region - including Cooks the Bakery, Marston's, Chubb Locks and Carillion.
Jaguar, Land Rover and MG cars are also manufactured in the West Midlands, along with London's iconic black taxis.
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Supply chain analyst jobs
If you’re a supply chain data analyst with the requisite skills and experience, you need to speak to Cast UK as we might be sitting on the perfect job for you. We were founded on supply chain and logistics recruitment, and although we’ve diversified since those days, it’s still a core part of our business, and we understand the needs of supply chains and companies that rely on their efficient operation. Follow the link below to register your details with us.
If you’re on the lookout for a supply chain analyst for your business, you’ve found the perfect recruitment partner. We’ve always got the most talented candidates on our list. Call us on 0333 121 3345 to talk to us today.
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