“Supply chain management” covers all activities involved in moving raw materials from their source to the final product delivered to customers.
What roles do supply chain consultants play?
The goal of supply chain consulting is to enhance the performance of the supply chain process. This may include sourcing, supplier negotiations, logistics, inventory control, and more.
Typically, consulting engagements aim to reduce costs, increase efficiency, boost quality, or improve reliability. However, cost reduction is not always the primary goal. Sometimes, better overall business results or profitability come from investing in higher quality inputs and dependable logistics, even if they cost more.
Tools and resources used in supply chain consulting
Supply chain consultants utilize various tools and resources to enhance their clients’ sourcing strategies. The choice of tools depends on the specific consulting project. An experienced consultant will have access to a broad range of resources and the expertise to use them effectively.
Industry experience across multiple sectors
Consultants with diverse industry backgrounds can apply successful practices from different fields. Specialists focused only on one sector may have limited perspectives, while multi-industry consultants bring a wider range of solutions.
Global supplier networks
Through strong global partnerships, consultants assist clients in identifying low-cost suppliers abroad and building local support for supplier and logistics management. This involves more than just knowing suppliers' locations; it’s about fostering robust relationships to back these partnerships.
Data-driven insights
Some projects target specific parts of the supply chain, while others aim to optimize the entire process. Effective consultants rely on data analytics to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities, and to challenge existing assumptions.
Collaborating with a supply chain consultant
Engaging a supply chain consultant, as with any consulting service, demands honesty and openness. A good consultant’s role isn’t just to confirm your expectations but to guide you towards your objectives. This may involve difficult conversations and important decisions.
