What Does a Supply Chain Manager Do?

Supply Chain Managers in FMCG are responsible for end-to-end product flow from raw material procurement through to on-shelf availability. In fast-moving goods, the margin for error is minimal — they manage complex multi-site supplier networks, demand forecasts, and logistics operations under constant commercial pressure.

Core Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end supply chain from procurement through to customer delivery, ensuring OTIF targets are met
Own S&OP process, aligning demand, supply, inventory, and financial plans monthly
Manage supplier performance, negotiating SLAs, pricing, and capacity agreements
Drive inventory optimisation — reducing stock days while maintaining service levels
Oversee distribution network, 3PL relationships, and transport cost management
Lead continuous improvement projects to reduce waste, improve throughput, and lower COGS
Partner with commercial teams on NPD supply readiness and promotional volume planning
Report supply chain KPIs to senior leadership and identify risks and mitigation plans

Salary Benchmarks

Mid-level

$45,000 – $72,000

Senior / Director

$62,000 – $95,000

Supply chain roles at major manufacturers (Unilever, Nestlé, Heineken) pay 20–30% premiums. Third-party logistics roles typically pay less than brand-side equivalent.

Notice periods: 4–8 weeks standard. Supply chain directors may have 3-month notice periods.

Qualifications & Background

Degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Logistics, or Operations
CIPS qualification (procurement)
APICS CPIM or CSCP certification valued
ERP system experience (SAP, Oracle)

CV Screening Criteria

Prioritise these signals when reviewing applications for Supply Chain Manager roles:

✓ Hands-on S&OP or IBP process ownership
✓ Quantified OTIF and forecast accuracy track record
✓ Named ERP/APS tools (SAP APO/IBP, Oracle, Kinaxis, Blue Yonder)
✓ Cross-functional leadership — influencing without authority across commercial and manufacturing
✓ Supply disruption management experience

Recommended Interview Structure

Typical timeline: 6–10 weeks. Typically 3 stages: technical competency interview → planning scenario exercise → final panel.

Stage 1

CV & phone screen — verify core competencies and commercial track record

Stage 2

Competency interview — STAR-based questions focused on role-specific scenarios

Stage 3

Presentation or case study — assess strategic thinking and communication

Recommended questions to use:

How do you manage a supply chain disruption that threatens a key customer's OTIF?
Describe your approach to the S&OP process.
How do you balance inventory reduction with service level targets?
Tell me about a supplier relationship you had to turn around.

Red Flags to Watch For

✗ Can't explain their methodology for managing demand uncertainty or safety stock
✗ Only operated in one end of the supply chain without broader exposure
✗ No experience with formal S&OP or IBP process
✗ Can't name the planning or ERP tools they've used

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Must-Have Skills

Demand planning & S&OP Inventory management & optimisation Supplier relationship management ERP systems (SAP/Oracle) Distribution & logistics management KPI reporting & continuous improvement Procurement & contract negotiation OTIF & service level management

Typical Employers

Nestlé Unilever Heineken Kimberly-Clark RB/Reckitt ABF Cargill Kerry Group Greencore Bakkavor

Career Progression

Supply Chain Analyst / Planner (0–3 yrs)

Supply Chain Manager (3–7 yrs)

Senior Supply Chain Manager (6–10 yrs)

Head of Supply Chain (8–13 yrs)

Supply Chain Director / COO

Related Resources

Supply Chain Manager Job Description Template Supply Chain Manager Salary Guide Supply Chain Manager Interview Questions

How to Hire a Supply Chain Manager in FMCG