Earning an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in supply chain management opens doors to various high-demand careers across industries that depend on efficient operations and logistics. Graduates of these programs gain expertise in optimizing supply chains, managing inventory and streamlining production processes to enhance profitability and sustainability.  

The field of supply chain management is continuously evolving due to technological advancements, globalization and changing consumer demands, making it a dynamic and rewarding career path. Students in the online MBA with a Concentration in Supply Chain Management program from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UW-Parkside) are equipped to pursue prominent career opportunities. Note that salary information included here is current as of April 2025, and actual salaries will depend on factors such as location, company and experience. 

Operations Manager 

Operations managers oversee the production of goods and services, ensuring that organizational processes are efficient and effective. According to Indeed, their responsibilities include managing daily operations, formulating policies and planning the use of materials and human resources.  

Operations managers must also adapt to industry trends, such as automation and digital transformation, to improve workflow efficiency. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for an operations manager in the U.S. is $63,456, with top earners making up to $118,500.

Manufacturing Manager 

Manufacturing managers, also known as industrial production managers, oversee the daily operations of manufacturing plants. They coordinate, plan and direct activities to meet production schedules and product quality standards.  

Additionally, they implement lean manufacturing techniques to minimize waste and maximize productivity. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median annual wage for industrial production managers is $116,970.

Production Manager  

Production managers are responsible for planning, coordinating and controlling manufacturing processes to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness and quality. Their duties include overseeing the production process and ensuring compliance with safety standards.  

They also integrate new supply chain technologies, such as real-time tracking and automation, to boost productivity. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a production manager in the U.S. is $70,872, with top earners earning up to $114,000. 

Inventory Manager  

Inventory managers oversee ordering, storing and distributing products and supplies. According to Indeed, their responsibilities include managing inventory levels, tracking orders and maintaining accurate inventory records.  

With the growth of e-commerce, inventory managers increasingly depend on data analytics and predictive modeling to ensure effective inventory control. Although specific salary data for inventory managers varies, they play a critical role in assisting companies with maintaining optimal inventory levels to meet customer demand without overstocking.  

Logistics Manager  

Logistics managers plan, direct and coordinate the transportation, storage and distribution of goods and services. They ensure delivery of products to the correct location on time and at an optimal cost.  

With an increasing focus on sustainability, logistics managers are exploring green logistics solutions, such as electric fleets and optimized routing, to reduce carbon footprints. BLS indicates that transportation, storage and distribution managers earn a median annual wage of $99,200.

Skills and Knowledge Gained With a Supply Chain Management MBA

A supply chain management MBA shows employers that you have the relevant and essential insights needed to thrive in your role. Programs like UW-Parkside’s online MBA in Supply Chain Management instill crucial skills, including the following: 

  • Efficiency: Developing strategies to streamline operations and reduce waste
  • Coordination and communication: Managing cross-functional teams and effectively communicating with stakeholders 
  • Project management: Planning, executing and overseeing projects to ensure timely and budget-conscious completion 
  • Data-driven decision-making: Utilizing analytics to optimize supply chain performance and drive business success 

These competencies are crucial for managing complex supply chains and contributing to organizational success. Equipped with skills like these makes graduates of MBA programs more appealing to hiring managers across industries.  

The Benefits of an Online MBA in Supply Chain Management From UW-Parkside

For those looking to further their education, UW-Parkside‘s online MBA in Supply Chain Management program focuses on supply chain management. This program equips students with practical knowledge and skills relevant to today’s dynamic supply chain environments. Courses cover topics such as network planning, inventory management, risk pooling, strategic alliances, ethics, logistics and sustainability.  

The program is entirely online, providing flexibility, and can be completed in as few as 12 months. Earning an MBA in supply chain management enhances expertise and significantly broadens career opportunities in various high-demand roles across multiple industries. 

Learn more about UW-Parkside’s online MBA with a Concentration in Supply Chain Management program.