A supply chain is a network of facilities and distribution options that performs the functions of procurement of materials; transformation of these materials into intermediate and finished products; and distribution of these products to customers. As products flow down the chain, information and money flow up the chain. No product moves without an instruction to do so. (Paul James). Supply chain management spans all movement and storage of raw materials, work-in-process inventory, and finished goods from point of origin to point of consumption.
According to the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), supply chain management encompasses the planning and management of all activities involved in sourcing, procurement, conversion, and logistics management. It also includes the crucial components of coordination and collaboration with channel partners, which can be suppliers, intermediaries, third-party service providers, and customers. In essence, supply chain management integrates supply and demand management within and across companies. More recently, the loosely coupled, self-organizing network of businesses that cooperate to provide product and service offerings has been called the Extended Enterprise.
Supply chain management must address the following problems:
" Distribution Network Configuration: number, location and network missions of suppliers, production facilities, distribution centers, warehouses, cross-docks and customers.
" Distribution Strategy: questions of operating control (centralized, decentralized or shared); delivery scheme, e.g., direct shipment, pool point shipping, cross docking, DSD (direct store delivery), closed loop shipping; mode of transportation, e.g., motor carrier, including truckload, LTL, parcel; railroad; intermodal transport, including TOFC (trailer on flatcar) and COFC (container on flatcar); ocean freight; airfreight; replenishment strategy (e.g., pull, push or hybrid); and transportation control (e.g., owner-operated, private carrier, common carrier, contract carrier, or 3PL (third party logistics).
" Trade-Offs in Logistical Activities: The above activities must be well coordinated in order to achieve the lowest total logistics cost. Trade-offs may increase the total cost if only one of the activities is optimized. For example, full truckload (FTL) rates are more economical on a cost per pallet basis than less than truckload (LTL) shipments. If, however, a full truckload of a product is ordered to reduce transportation costs, there will be an increase in inventory holding costs which may increase total logistics costs. It is therefore imperative to take a systems approach when planning logistical activities. These trade-offs are key to developing the most efficient and effective Logistics and SCM strategy.
" Information: Integration of processes through the supply chain to share valuable information, including demand signals, forecasts, inventory, transportation, potential collaboration, etc.
" Inventory Management: Quantity and location of inventory, including raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP) and finished goods.
" Cash-Flow: Arranging the payment terms and methodologies for exchanging funds across entities within the supply chain.
Hennepin County, Minnesota, is a bustling region that offers numerous job opportunities in diverse industries. Among these, the supply chain logistics sector plays a pivotal role in keeping the economy thriving. To ensure a smooth professional relationship, Hennepin County offers various types of employment contracts, specifically designed for Project Managers working in the field of supply chain logistics within provider companies. 1. Fixed-Term Employment Contract: The fixed-term employment contract is a common agreement between Hennepin County and the Project Manager. It defines the duration of employment, which is typically for a specified period. This type of contract often aligns with specific projects or temporary assignments within a supply chain logistics provider company. 2. Permanent Employment Contract: For Project Managers seeking long-term commitment, Hennepin County also offers permanent employment contracts. These contracts assure job security and signify the intention of a continuing professional relationship. Project Managers operating in supply chain logistics can benefit from this type of contract, especially if they thrive in a stable work environment. 3. Full-Time Employment Contract: Hennepin County recognizes the importance of a dedicated Project Manager overseeing the complexities of supply chain logistics. Therefore, full-time employment contracts are available for those individuals who are ready to commit their skills and expertise on a full-time basis. This agreement typically requires a consistent work schedule with the employer, ensuring maximum efficiency and dedication. 4. Part-Time/Flexible Employment Contract: Understanding the various professional needs of Project Managers, Hennepin County also offers part-time or flexible employment contracts. This option allows individuals to maintain a work-life balance while contributing valuable expertise to supply chain logistics provider companies. Part-time schedules may vary, with reduced working hours compared to full-time contracts, providing increased flexibility. 5. Independent Contractor Agreement: Hennepin County also recognizes the need for independent contractors in the supply chain logistics industry. Project Managers who prefer the freedom of working independently can benefit from an independent contractor agreement. This type of contract offers a flexible arrangement where the Project Manager can take on multiple clients or projects simultaneously, providing specialized consulting or project-based services. Key terms and keywords to consider in the content: — Hennepin CountyMinnesotaot— - Employment contract — Project Manage— - Provider of Supply Chain Logistics Firewaterer— - Permanent - Full-Time - Part-Time Flexiblexibl— - Independent Contractor - Job security — Professionarelationshiphi— - Work-life balance — Temporary assignment— - Consulting services — Project-based services
