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Supply Chain Management

Procurement Alignment

Procurement Alignment is the synchronisation of all purchasing activities with the overall business strategy and goals in Supply Chain Management. It includes skills such as identifying appropriate suppliers, coordinating with internal stakeholders, and optimizing procurement processes. The impact is a streamlined supply chain, potential cost savings and improved supplier relationships.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are learning to understand how procurement choices should support the wider goals of the business within supply chain management. You seek basic guidance on selecting suppliers and work collaboratively with your team to follow established processes. By doing this, you help ensure purchasing activities are coordinated and support smooth supply chain operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are starting to coordinate purchasing activities with your team and key parts of the business, seeking guidance to ensure your procurement decisions support broader Supply Chain goals. You work to understand supplier options and basic process improvements. Your actions help lay the early groundwork for smoother procurement and supplier reliability.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to align procurement activities with your organization’s broader supply chain goals, regularly consulting with key stakeholders and evaluating supplier options against strategic priorities. You consistently optimize procurement processes to improve efficiency and deliver cost savings. Your actions contribute to stronger, more effective supplier relationships and a more resilient supply chain.

Warehouse Operations

Warehouse Operations is the capability to efficiently manage the receiving, storing and dispatching of goods within a storage facility. This requires comprehensive knowledge of inventory systems, capacity planning, and legal compliance. The impact of adept Warehouse Operations is cost-effective, streamlined supply chain management, ensuring goods reach their intended destinations with maximal speed and minimal wastage.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are learning how to follow standard processes for receiving, storing, and sending goods within a warehouse setting. You understand basic inventory practices and can carry out simple tasks with close supervision. Your consistent participation helps the team keep track of products and maintain a smooth flow of goods.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are starting to carry out basic warehouse tasks, such as receiving and storing goods, with guidance from more experienced colleagues. You follow established procedures and use inventory systems to track stock movement, asking questions when you are unsure. Your careful work helps to keep supply chain operations running smoothly and reduces the risk of errors.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to manage daily warehouse operations with confidence, overseeing receiving, storage, and dispatch processes to meet supply chain needs. You use inventory systems and capacity planning tools to maintain accuracy and efficiency. Your work helps deliver goods promptly and minimizes waste, supporting overall business goals.

Technology Integration in Supply Chains

Technology Integration in Supply Chains is the expertise of applying technological solutions within the supply chain structure to enhance performance. This includes understanding varied software, hardware, and digital platforms relevant to supply chain operations. Such integration aims for efficiency, accuracy and transparency across supply chain processes, consequently improving business competitiveness.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware of basic technologies used in supply chain management and recognize their importance in daily operations. You follow established processes when using supply chain systems or digital tools, seeking guidance when needed. Your understanding supports efficient and accurate completion of routine tasks, contributing to consistent team results.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are beginning to use basic supply chain technologies in your day-to-day tasks, following established procedures. You can operate common tools and systems with some guidance and are building your understanding of how these technologies support efficiency and accuracy. Your actions help ensure data is recorded correctly and support smoother supply chain processes.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are confident using a range of supply chain technologies to streamline and improve daily operations. You adapt to new systems quickly, making sure digital tools are set up and used correctly by the team. Your actions lead to greater efficiency, fewer errors, and better visibility across the supply chain.

Supply Planning

Supply Planning is the strategic capability encompassing the capability of planning, scheduling and managing the resources necessary for a business's supply chain operations. This capability involves understanding market demands, adapting to changes in supplier's circumstances, and ensuring efficient resource allocation. This planning activity directly influences cost-effectiveness, timely product delivery and overall business performance within the supply chain.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to follow basic supply planning instructions and understand how stock levels and resource availability affect supply chain operations. You support the team by gathering simple data and assisting with routine scheduling tasks. Your attention to these basics helps the team maintain steady supply and avoid straightforward disruptions.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are beginning to apply supply planning techniques with guidance from others. You can follow set processes to help schedule resources and adjust plans when there are minor changes in demand or supplier reliability. Your work supports efficient operations and helps avoid simple disruptions to product delivery.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to create and adjust supply plans based on current market trends and supplier changes. You manage scheduling and resource allocation to keep costs down and support timely product delivery. Your planning helps the business meet customer needs while improving overall supply chain performance.

Supply Chain Strategy

Supply Chain Strategy is the capability to plan and manage all resources required to meet customer demand. It encompasses determining the most cost-effective processes, from sourcing materials to product delivery. This function enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and optimizes value in the supply chain.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware of how supply chain strategy shapes the flow of goods and services to meet customer needs. You follow set processes for sourcing, planning, and delivery, understanding how your tasks support the bigger picture. Your work helps maintain smooth day-to-day operations and supports team goals.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are able to support supply chain planning activities by following set processes and guidelines. You contribute by gathering data and assisting with tasks such as stock monitoring or supplier communications. Your efforts help ensure daily operations run smoothly and set the foundation for deeper involvement in supply chain strategy.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to design and implement supply chain strategies that balance cost, efficiency, and customer needs. You assess current processes, identify areas for improvement, and coordinate resources across functions to create practical, value-driven plans. Your actions result in smoother operations and improved performance for the organization.

Supply Chain Performance Measurement

Supply Chain Performance Measurement is the ability to analyze and assess the effectiveness of supply chain operations. It requires understanding of key performance indicators and using them to drive improvement. Through this, businesses can streamline processes, enhance customer satisfaction and increase profitability.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to recognize common supply chain performance indicators and understand their basic purpose. You can reliably gather simple data under guidance to help measure supply chain activities. This helps your team monitor efficiency and spot areas for early improvement.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are able to collect and interpret basic supply chain performance data with some guidance. You can identify key performance indicators and recognize trends or gaps in current operations. Your work helps your team to spot issues early and to find simple ways to improve supply chain efficiency.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to select and apply the right supply chain performance measures to monitor day-to-day operations and identify areas for improvement. You interpret results with confidence, communicate findings clearly to others, and suggest practical changes. Your actions help the organization respond to issues quickly and deliver better outcomes for customers.

Supplier Selection

Supplier Selection is the ability to identify, evaluate, and contract reliable vendors within supply chain management. This involves understanding the supplier market, assessing potential vendors on quality, price and timeliness, and fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Impacting cost-efficiency and delivery times, effective supplier selection fundamentally underpins successful supply chain performance.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to recognize the need for careful supplier selection and follow established procedures to help identify and compare basic supplier options. You assist with gathering supplier information and understanding simple criteria like price and delivery. Your work supports more experienced team members in ensuring smooth and cost-effective supply chain operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are beginning to assist with identifying and comparing potential suppliers for specific products or services in the supply chain. You follow set criteria and work under guidance to help gather information on supplier quality, cost and delivery. Your input helps support better purchasing decisions and contributes to reliable, timely supply.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are confident in identifying and evaluating suppliers against quality, cost, and reliability standards in line with your organization’s supply chain goals. You manage the supplier selection process independently and build effective relationships that support stable, cost-efficient delivery. Your choices directly improve supply chain performance and business outcomes.

Supplier Performance Monitoring

Supplier Performance Monitoring is the ability to track and evaluate a supplier's adherence to set agreements, ensuring efficiency within the supply chain. This involves understanding metrics, analyzing data and facilitating feedback loops. Successful monitoring ensures consistency, enhances relationships, and mitigates supply chain risks.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are learning to collect basic supplier data and recognize key performance indicators relevant to supply chain agreements. You follow set processes and instructions, supporting more experienced team members in tracking supplier performance. Your groundwork helps maintain reliable supply and builds your understanding of how supplier relationships impact business operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are learning how to track basic supplier performance against agreed terms and identify obvious issues. You collect and review straightforward data, raising clear concerns to your team. Your growing understanding helps ensure disruptions are noticed early, supporting consistent supply and building your confidence in supplier management.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to consistently track and assess supplier performance against agreed criteria, using data to identify trends and areas for improvement. You respond to issues promptly and work with suppliers to resolve concerns and maintain service levels. Your actions help ensure supply chain reliability and build stronger supplier relationships.

Risk and Contingency Planning

Risk and Contingency Planning is the capacity to predict, identify, and mitigate potential risks in supply chain operations. This capability involves creating strategic recovery plans, which minimize disruption and protect stakeholder interests. Mastery of this capability enables a proactive approach to unforeseen supply chain challenges, ensuring business continuity in various scenarios.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware that supply chain operations can face disruptions and recognize the importance of planning for risks. You support others by gathering information or following guidance to help identify basic risks and respond to issues as they arise. Your actions help ensure daily supply chain tasks stay on track.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are beginning to recognize common supply chain risks and can follow established procedures to help manage them. You support more experienced team members by contributing to basic contingency plans and assisting with simple risk assessments. Your efforts help reduce minor disruptions, protecting daily operations and service delivery.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to identify and assess potential risks across the supply chain and develop practical contingency plans to address them. You respond swiftly to disruptions by coordinating resources and communicating clear actions with stakeholders. This ensures the business can manage unexpected challenges effectively and maintain continuity in day-to-day operations.

Circular Supply Chain Practices

"Circular Supply Chain Practices is the ability to implement and manage processes that support reusing, refurbishing, and recycling materials in a business's supply chain. The scope includes understanding environmental impacts, waste management, and autonomous systems. This capability enables the creation of sustainable, efficient supply chains that not merely reduce costs but also serve a larger, ecological purpose."

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to recognize basic concepts of reusing, refurbishing, and recycling materials within the supply chain. You understand why reducing waste and considering environmental impacts is important in supply chain processes. Your awareness helps your team begin to adopt sustainable practices that support responsible resource use.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are starting to apply basic circular supply chain practices in your daily work, with guidance. You recognize the importance of reusing and recycling materials and assist in identifying opportunities to reduce waste within existing supply chain processes. Your efforts support your team to make small, practical improvements towards greater sustainability.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to apply circular supply chain practices to your daily operations, ensuring materials are reused, refurbished, or recycled wherever possible. You consistently identify opportunities to minimize waste and collaborate with partners to improve sustainability. Your actions help reduce environmental impact and make supply chain processes more efficient.

Logistics Coordination

Logistics Coordination is the capability to effectively plan, manage and execute the transportation and distribution of goods within a supply chain. This includes overseeing inventory, warehousing, and delivery schedules. Mastery of these tasks ensures an efficient supply chain, reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to follow given instructions to support basic logistics tasks, such as tracking deliveries or assisting with stock checks. You work under close supervision, learning how goods move through the supply chain. Your reliability helps keep things running smoothly and builds your confidence for more complex work.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are able to follow established logistics procedures and support the planning and coordination of goods movement within the supply chain. You assist with managing stock levels, basic warehouse operations, and tracking delivery schedules under guidance. Your contribution helps maintain efficient workflows and supports timely, accurate deliveries.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to coordinate logistics activities independently, ensuring goods move smoothly from suppliers to customers. You manage inventory levels, organize warehousing, and maintain delivery schedules to meet business needs. Your consistent approach keeps costs down and helps your team meet customer expectations reliably.

Inventory Management

Inventory Management is the efficient oversight of stock items in a company's supply chain. This requires detailed knowledge of inventory control techniques, accurate forecasting of demand and exceptional attention to detail. Having strong Inventory Management skills ensures the smooth operation of supply chains, minimizes holding costs, and prevents stockouts, ultimately impacting a company's profitability and customer satisfaction.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to accurately follow inventory processes and maintain clear records of stock movements. You support daily supply chain operations by checking quantities, identifying discrepancies and reporting issues to your team. Your careful attention helps to keep inventory organized and supports timely supply of goods.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are learning to track and record inventory accurately using established systems and basic inventory control methods. You follow set procedures to support stock movement and maintain stock levels, with guidance from others as needed. Your attention to detail helps reduce errors and supports smoother supply chain operations.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are capabilityed at balancing stock levels to meet changing customer demand while controlling costs and avoiding shortages. You apply proven inventory control methods and consistently monitor inventory accuracy in day-to-day operations. Your approach helps maintain reliable supply, supports team productivity, and improves delivery performance for the business.

Import / Export Compliance

Import / Export Compliance is the ability to interpret and apply regulations pertaining to international trade within the supply chain. This involves understanding the legalities related to import and export processes, to ensure smooth logistics operation. Consequently, proficiency in this area reduces the risk of legal complications and supports efficient, compliant global trade operations.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware of basic import and export rules that affect your supply chain activities. You follow set procedures to ensure goods move legally and correctly across borders under supervision. Your attention to compliance reduces delays and helps your team avoid simple errors in routine trade operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are beginning to apply basic import and export regulations to supply chain activities under guidance. You recognize common compliance risks and follow established procedures to support accurate documentation and movement of goods. Your attention to compliance helps avoid simple errors and contributes to efficient international operations.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to interpret and apply international import and export regulations across supply chain activities with confidence. You identify compliance requirements, resolve common issues, and ensure shipments meet legal standards. Your work helps minimize delays, reduce risks, and support smooth, lawful movement of goods across borders.

Freight and Transportation Management

Freight and Transportation Management is the ability to orchestrate and control the movement of goods within supply chains. It requires knowledge of logistics planning, regulatory compliance and multimodal transport systems. This capability results in reliable shipping, risk mitigation and efficient operations, enhancing overall supply chain effectiveness.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware of how goods are moved within the supply chain and understand basic transport methods and requirements. You follow set processes to support freight and transport activities, seeking guidance when unsure. Your approach helps ensure that shipments are handled correctly and reach their destinations as planned.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are starting to organize and monitor the movement of goods by following established transport and freight procedures. You apply basic knowledge of logistics planning and regulations to manage routine freight tasks, seeking guidance with more complex issues. Your efforts help maintain reliable shipping and day-to-day supply chain operations.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to coordinate and monitor the movement of goods across multiple transport modes, ensuring shipments are completed on time and within budget. You apply your knowledge of regulations and logistics planning to handle routine challenges and reduce risks. Your actions support smooth, cost-effective freight operations that help the whole supply chain run more efficiently.

Distribution Planning

Distribution Planning is a crucial capacity in Supply Chain Management. It encompasses the effective allocation of goods from production to end consumer utilising appropriate routes. Display of competent decision-making underpins this function, affecting overall organizational efficiency, cost-effectiveness and customer satisfaction. This demands skills in route optimization, forecasting, and understanding logistical constraints.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are learning the basics of how goods move from suppliers to customers and the importance of planning their paths. You can follow instructions to support simple distribution tasks, such as helping check delivery routes or schedules. Your work assists your team in providing reliable service and meeting customer needs.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are learning to support the distribution of goods by helping to plan routes and schedules within set guidelines. You use basic forecasting and recognize common logistical challenges, seeking guidance when faced with complexities. Your contribution helps your team move products reliably while developing your understanding of supply chain processes.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to balance supply and demand by planning and coordinating the timely distribution of products to customers. You use available data to choose efficient delivery routes and adapt plans to real-world challenges, ensuring stock reaches its destination as promised. Your decisions help lower costs and boost service reliability.

Demand Planning

Demand Planning is the capability of accurately predicting future consumer needs within a supply chain. With a foundation in analysis skills and market insight, it enables strategic stock purchasing and resource allocation. The impact is a well-balanced inventory, minimizing wastage and maximizing customer satisfaction.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are learning to gather and record basic sales and inventory data to support demand planning. You use clear guidance to spot simple patterns in customer demand, helping your team keep stock at sensible levels. Your careful input helps avoid shortages or excess stock, supporting smooth supply chain operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are able to support demand planning activities by collecting and organizing sales data and market insights under guidance. You use established tools to help forecast customer needs, contributing to basic stock and resource decisions. Your actions help the team maintain more accurate inventory levels and begin reducing supply gaps.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to analyze historical data and market trends to forecast customer demand with accuracy. You regularly adjust plans in response to changes, ensuring stock levels match real needs within the supply chain. Your planning reduces excess inventory and supports timely delivery to customers.

Cost optimization

Cost optimization is the strategic ability to effectively reduce expenses within the supply chain without impacting performance or output. Through informed decision-making and thorough analysis, this capability promotes cost-efficiency and sustainable growth. The impact translates to an overall competitive advantage and improves financial resilience.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are aware of basic cost considerations in supply chain activities and follow established processes to support cost efficiency. You recognize the importance of minimizing waste and using resources wisely as you complete your tasks. Your attention to these details helps the organization keep expenses under control and maintain smooth operations.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are learning to spot areas in the supply chain where costs can be reduced without affecting quality or delivery. You follow established processes, seek guidance, and contribute ideas during cost reviews. Your efforts help your team become more aware of cost drivers and support efficient use of resources.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to identify and implement practical cost-saving measures across the supply chain, balancing savings with performance needs. You use data and analysis to make informed decisions with clear benefits. Your actions help maintain supply chain efficiency while supporting the organization’s financial goals.

Contract fulfillment

Contract fulfillment is the ability to effectively oversee and execute contractual obligations within the supply chain. It involves understanding terms, coordinating resources to deliver as promised, and managing any alterations. This capability ensures reliability in the supply chain, promoting trust and fostering long-term relationships with suppliers and vendors.

Level 1: Emerging

At a foundational level you are able to understand basic contract terms and follow clear instructions to help meet supply chain commitments. You support others by carrying out assigned tasks that help deliver on supplier or vendor agreements. Your attention to detail and reliability help build trust within the team and with partners.

Level 2: Proficient

At a developing level you are learning to interpret contract requirements and support the coordination of resources to meet supply chain obligations. You contribute to tracking progress and raising issues when commitments are at risk. Your efforts help improve delivery reliability and strengthen trust with suppliers and vendors.

Level 3: Advanced

At a proficient level you are able to consistently deliver on contract commitments, ensuring all supply chain obligations are met on time and to agreed standards. You handle amendments or unexpected issues efficiently, coordinating with relevant teams and suppliers to maintain compliance. Your reliability strengthens supplier trust and supports strong, long-term partnerships.

Capabilities