Innovation key to creating successful global supply chains

Budding managers can learn how to successfully lead supply chains of the future by creating cultures of innovation and adopting latest technologies, in all sectors of their organisation. This is one of many areas covered in the University of London’s latest degree programme, the MSc in Supply Chain Management and Global Logistics.

This brand new degree from the University of London is delivered in partnership with City, University of London’s Cass Business School, rated amongst the top-ranked business schools in London and Europe. 

Students enrolling on the degree are provided with a 360 degree perspective and learn about the managerial and analytical tools to manage global supply chains. Completing the final project also enables students to contribute to the forefront of supply chain management and global logistics, through demonstrating their originality and skills in the real world.

Co-Programme Director Dr Byung-Gak Son stressed the importance of an effectively managed supply chain, which contributes immensely to the success of global companies like Amazon, Unilever, Nike and The Coca Cola Company. He said: ‘Given the enormous challenges of increasingly global and fragmented supply chains, we professionals require a sound understanding of emerging opportunities and risks and the knowledge and tools to handle them.’

He added: ‘Our degree was developed as a result of rigorous research that we carried out to identify the skills needed by large organisations to successfully manage their supply chains. As a result, we aim to combine a comprehensive understanding of the subject and related disciplines with in-depth knowledge in relevant specialised areas such as innovation and technology management, supply chain finance or analytics.’  

In our intimately connected global economy, effective supply chain management is crucially important. It requires managers with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge available, who understand challenges and risks, and are able to react to economic or natural events. For example, the 2011 Japanese Earthquake disrupted the global supply of aircraft parts and semiconductors, leading to a slowdown in U.S. GDP. Managing such challenges successfully is a key to competitiveness.

Sam Brenton, Director of Educational Innovation and Development, University of London, said: 'We know that today’s professional learners value flexibility and choice.  With our unique model, students on the MSc can study entirely online, or with local tuition from our global network of teaching centres. Academic direction is provided by the renowned Cass Business School, part of City, University of London and one of the world’s leading business schools. We look forward to welcoming our first cohort of students in April, as they study for a prestigious University of London degree anywhere in the world - at work, from home or on the move.'

This new degree from the University of London encourages the continuous development of skills through full accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). Pending completion of the MSc, and relevant work experience, students can apply for full membership to become part of the global professional community.

The MSc programme, which also offers Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates, is relevant for students all over the globe. The flexibility offered by the University of London enables students to complete their award while meeting professional and personal commitments, anywhere in the world. 

Applications are now open, and close on Monday 4 March 2019.