Hunter Campbell’s Mastering Supply Chain Series profiles roles within the Supply Chain job family including jobs in demand, salaries, and employment prospects.
In this article, the role of Supply Chain Graduate is in the spotlight.
Purpose of the Role
The Supply Chain encompasses the network of people, activities, resources, and information involved in the creation and movement of products or services from suppliers to consumers.
Supply Chain Graduate roles are typically entry-level positions, with larger companies often offering well-developed graduate programmes. These programmes frequently include rotations through different departments, providing a comprehensive overview of the organisation. While you may possess strong skills in a particular area, this rotation model allows you to adapt and acquire new skills across various functions. In smaller companies, support across the Supply Chain may focus primarily on purchasing and logistics, leading to roles such as Purchasing Officer or Logistics Coordinator.
Recruitment Forecast 2025
Graduate programmes have seen a decline in the current climate, with companies prioritising candidates who can hit the ground running and quickly take on tasks. The focus has been on hiring experienced professionals who require minimal onboarding, reflecting the need for immediate impact in leaner teams.
As the market improves, we anticipate a shift in this trend, with organisations becoming more open to investing in the development of emerging talent. Graduate programmes are likely to regain traction, offering businesses a valuable pipeline for nurturing future leaders while addressing longer-term skill gaps.
Career Prospects
The Supply Chain sector offers diverse duties and the potential for career advancement across various industries. After completing a graduate programme or entering an entry-level Supply Chain role, individuals can pursue further opportunities in one of the following areas:
- Procurement (direct or indirect)
- Logistics
- Distribution
- Inventory/Production/Demand/Supply Planning
- Operations Management
- Supply Chain Management
Qualifications
Many New Zealand universities now offer degrees and courses specifically in supply chain management. Graduates with qualifications in mathematics, statistics, economics, commerce, or operational science can also find opportunities as Supply Chain Graduates.
Key Skills Required
Entry requirements can vary by company. While it is beneficial for candidates entering Supply Chain Graduate programmes to have studied relevant subjects, it is not always essential. Some entry-level Supply Chain roles may not require a degree, although many graduate programmes will. It is crucial for candidates to have a genuine passion and understanding of the Supply Chain ecosystem.
Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:
- Strong Excel skills, including pivot tables and VLOOKUP
- Excellent presentation abilities
- Strong analytical and data management skills
- A high level of attention to detail
Those already in the workforce often choose to pursue qualifications such as the Certificate in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) from NZPICS. Earning these credentials signifies a commitment to ongoing professional development and is highly valued by many employers, giving candidates a competitive edge.
Salary Guide
The following salary ranges are based on anecdotal data from roles Hunter Campbell is currently recruiting or has previously recruited and reflect base salaries without additional bonuses or benefits.
- Entry Level Supply Chain role (no degree or workplace experience): $55,000 – $60,000
- Supply Chain Graduate (with relevant qualifications): $60,000 – $65,000
- Supply Chain Graduate (with 1+ years of industry experience): $65,000 – $75,000
Salaries for Supply Chain entry level and graduate roles can vary depending on experience and specific responsibilities.
A Supply Chain Graduate transitioning from a warehouse or administrative role may expect a salary between $50,000 – $55,000. After gaining a year or so of experience, this could rise to $55,000 – $65,000. As individuals gain more experience and demonstrate potential for progression, they may take on greater responsibilities, which could lead to salaries ranging from $65,000 – $75,000.
Opportunities for advancement into Team Lead or Leadership positions are typically available as well.
These salary figures can vary based on industry, company size, and levels of responsibility.
If you would like to find out more about the role of Supply Chain Graduate, please contact Senior Consultant Kat Biggelaar. Kat specialises in Supply Chain, Planning and Contracting. For more news and views, visit our website by clicking here, see what opportunities we have available here or follow us on LinkedIn.
