Job Description

A Key Account Manager (KAM) for Supply Chain Management focuses on managing and nurturing relationships with key clients within the supply chain sector. These clients could include large companies, distributors, manufacturers, or logistics providers that rely on supply chain solutions for their operations. The KAM ensures that these strategic clients receive tailored services, efficient supply chain solutions, and support to help them achieve their business goals. Key Responsibilities: Client Relationship Management : Build and maintain strong relationships with key supply chain clients, including manufacturers, logistics companies, and distributors. Understand the specific needs and challenges of each client in terms of logistics, transportation, inventory management, and distribution. Tailored Solutions : Offer customized solutions for managing their supply chain processes, including inventory optimization, transportation management, and risk mitigation. Work closely with operations, logistics, and procurement teams to implement these solutions. Coordination and Collaboration : Coordinate between the client and various departments (logistics, procurement, warehouse management, etc.) to ensure smooth operation and timely deliveries. Work alongside supply chain teams to improve processes and reduce inefficiencies for clients. Contract Negotiations : Negotiate contracts and service level agreements (SLAs) with clients that align with their supply chain needs and business objectives. Ensure terms are favorable for both the company and the client, with a focus on long-term partnerships. Supply Chain Optimization : Identify opportunities to streamline supply chain operations and reduce costs for clients (e.g., improving delivery times, inventory levels, or distribution routes). Recommend innovative technologies or best practices to enhance client supply chain efficiency. Problem Solving & Risk Management : Address issues such as delays, stockouts, transportation disruptions, or order fulfillment errors and work with clients to quickly resolve them. Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate disruptions in the supply chain. Monitoring and Reporting : Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to supply chain performance, such as delivery times, inventory turnover, and customer satisfaction. Provide regular reports to clients on performance metrics, progress, and any necessary improvements or adjustments. Sales & Business Development : Identify opportunities for additional services or expansions within the clients supply chain. Upsell or cross-sell supply chain solutions like warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), or inventory management software. Key Skills: Supply Chain Knowledge : Understanding of end-to-end supply chain processes, including procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution. Relationship Management : Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and long-term relationships with key clients. Negotiation : Ability to negotiate favourable contracts, pricing, and service agreements that meet both the client's and the company's needs. Problem-Solving : Quickly identifying supply chain issues and working on innovative solutions to resolve them. Analytical Skills : Ability to analyse data to identify trends, performance issues, and opportunities for improvement in the supply chain. Project Management : Managing and overseeing complex supply chain projects to ensure they are completed on time and within budget. Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with supply chain technologies, software, and tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, WMS, TMS). Challenges for a KAM in Supply Chain Management: Complexity : Supply chain operations often involve multiple stakeholders, processes, and dependencies, making it difficult to manage and coordinate. Global Operations : Managing supply chains that span multiple regions and countries requires knowledge of international logistics, trade regulations, and cultural differences. Risk Mitigation : Supply chains are vulnerable to disruptions (e.g., natural disasters, geopolitical issues, supply shortages). The KAM must work proactively to minimize these risks. Sustainability : Clients increasingly demand sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices in their supply chains. The KAM needs to understand green logistics and help clients adopt more sustainable practices.