Certificate in Global Supply Chain Management

The Global Supply Chain Management course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles, strategies, and operational practices that govern supply chains in a globalized economy. With increasing globalization, businesses today face complex challenges in managing the flow of goods, services, and information across multiple countries and regions. This course aims to demystify these complexities and provide a solid foundation for professionals working in or aspiring to enter the field of global supply chain management. Throughout the course, participants will explore the core components of global supply chains, including procurement, sourcing, logistics, distribution, and inventory management. Special attention will be given to the intricacies of managing global supply chains in the context of diverse economic, political, and cultural environments. The course will also address the ever-growing role of technology in modern supply chains and the necessity of adapting to rapidly changing market conditions.

In addition to traditional supply chain management concepts, the course will highlight the importance of sustainability, risk management, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in today’s global supply chain operations. Participants will learn how businesses can integrate environmentally and socially responsible practices while maintaining efficiency and competitiveness in a global market. This course will equip participants with the essential knowledge to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the global supply chain landscape. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid grasp of the fundamental concepts, tools, and techniques used to manage and optimize global supply chains effectively. The course is ideal for professionals who seek to enhance their knowledge of supply chain management or those who are looking to build a career in this dynamic field.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

Master the Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management: Understand key concepts such as procurement, sourcing, logistics, distribution, and inventory management. Participants will be able to explain how these elements interact and contribute to the overall effectiveness of a global supply chain.

Understand Global Supply Chain Dynamics: Analyze the complexities of managing supply chains in different parts of the world, considering economic, political, and cultural factors. Participants will learn to manage the challenges of operating in different geographical areas with diverse regulations, trade policies, and market conditions.

Make Strategic Procurement Decisions: Understand how to develop and implement sourcing strategies that minimize cost while ensuring quality and reliability from suppliers around the world. Participants will be equipped to select suppliers, negotiate contracts, and develop long-term supplier relationships.

Evaluate and Optimize Global Logistics Networks: Learn how to design and manage logistics networks that facilitate the efficient movement of goods across borders. The course will help participants understand how to optimize transportation, warehousing, and inventory systems to improve supply chain performance.

Leverage Technology for Supply Chain Innovation: Explore the role of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things, in modernizing supply chain operations. Participants will learn how technology can be used to enhance visibility, reduce risk, and improve supply chain efficiency.

Manage Supply Chain Risks: Identify potential risks within global supply chains, including geopolitical instability, natural disasters, regulatory changes, and supply disruptions. Learn how to develop risk management strategies to ensure business continuity.

Promote Sustainable Practices: Understand how sustainability is becoming an essential aspect of global supply chain management. Learn how to implement environmentally and socially responsible practices, such as ethical sourcing and reducing carbon emissions, to meet growing consumer and regulatory demands for sustainability.

The Fundamentals of Global Supply Chain Management course is delivered over two days, with each day consisting of three hours of instruction. The structure ensures a comprehensive understanding of key concepts through a mix of lectures, case studies, and practical applications.

Day 1: Introduction to Global Supply Chain Management and Procurement Strategies

Session 1: Overview of Global Supply Chain Management In this session, participants will be introduced to the concept of global supply chain management. The session will define what a supply chain is, how it operates, and what factors make managing a global supply chain unique. Topics include the global flow of goods, services, and information, and the essential components of a supply chain, including suppliers, manufacturers, logistics providers, and customers.

Key Learning Points: 

Definition and key components of global supply chains.

The evolution of global supply chains and their importance in modern business.

Key drivers of globalization and how they affect supply chain management.

Session 2: Procurement and Sourcing Strategies 
This session focuses on procurement and sourcing in global supply chains. Participants will learn how businesses source raw materials, components, and finished goods from suppliers worldwide. The session will also cover procurement strategies such as centralized vs. decentralized purchasing, strategic sourcing, and supplier selection. Participants will analyze different sourcing decisions, such as near-shoring and off-shoring, and explore the associated risks and benefits.

Key Learning Points:

Understanding procurement strategies in global supply chains.

Supplier selection criteria and contract negotiation.

Evaluating global sourcing risks, including cost, quality, and reliability.

Session 3: Logistics and Distribution Networks in Global Supply Chains
 Logistics is a critical element of global supply chains, and this session focuses on how goods are moved from suppliers to consumers across international borders. Topics will include transportation modes (air, sea, rail, and road), warehousing, inventory management, and the challenges of customs regulations. Participants will also explore how to design efficient logistics networks to minimize costs and improve service levels.

Key Learning Points:

Transportation and logistics strategies for global supply chains.

Inventory management and warehousing considerations.

The role of technology in improving logistics efficiency and visibility.

Day 2: Risk Management, Technology, and Sustainability

Session 4: Managing Risks in Global Supply Chains 
In this session, participants will examine the various risks that affect global supply chains. Topics include geopolitical risks, natural disasters, supply chain disruptions, and compliance challenges. The session will teach participants how to develop strategies to manage and mitigate these risks to maintain supply chain continuity. Tools and frameworks for risk assessment will be covered.

Key Learning Points:

Identifying and analyzing supply chain risks.

Developing risk management strategies to ensure continuity.

Contingency planning and crisis management

Session 5: The Role of Technology in Global Supply Chains 

Technology is transforming global supply chains, and this session will explore the role of emerging technologies in supply chain management. Participants will learn about the applications of AI, machine learning, blockchain, and IoT in optimizing supply chain operations. Case studies will demonstrate how technology can enhance visibility, improve decision-making, and streamline processes.

Key Learning Points:

Overview of emerging technologies in supply chain management.

The impact of digital transformation on global supply chains.

Case studies of companies successfully using technology to improve supply chain performance.

Session 6: Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility in Supply Chains 
The final session will address the growing emphasis on sustainability in global supply chains. Participants will learn about environmental and social issues related to supply chain management, such as carbon emissions, labor practices, and fair trade. The session will also cover strategies for implementing sustainable practices, including ethical sourcing, green logistics, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Key Learning Points:

Understanding sustainability challenges in global supply chains.

Sustainable sourcing and green logistics strategies.

The role of CSR in building a sustainable supply chain.

The assessment for this course will consist of an individual case study assignment. Participants will be required to choose a real-world company and analyze its global supply chain operations. They will evaluate the company’s procurement and sourcing strategies, logistics networks, risk management practices, use of technology, and sustainability initiatives.

The assignment will encourage participants to critically apply the concepts learned during the course and propose strategies for improving the company’s supply chain. The key criteria for assessment will include the clarity of analysis, the relevance of recommendations, and the application of global supply chain management principles.

This course is designed for:

Supply Chain and Logistics Professionals: Individuals working in procurement, logistics, or supply chain management who want to deepen their understanding of global supply chains.

Business Managers and Executives: Managers responsible for operations, procurement, or logistics who need to make informed decisions about global supply chain strategies.

Academics and Researchers: Those pursuing or currently engaged in academic research in supply chain management and logistics.

Consultants: Supply chain consultants who advise businesses on how to optimize their global supply chains.

Graduate and Postgraduate Students: Students studying supply chain management, logistics, or international business who want to build a solid academic foundation in global supply chains.

You can access recommended readings, videos, case studies, and supplementary materials for each module on the LMS by logging in after registration.