Introductory description

This is an elective module available for WBS and non-WBS students. To find detailed availability and to apply for this module, log in to my.wbs.ac.uk using your normal IT login details and apply via the my.wbs module application system. Once you’ve secured a place on my.wbs you should apply via your home department’s usual process, which usually takes place via eVision. Note that you do not require the module leader’s permission to study a WBS module, so please do not contact them to request it.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

• The scope and definition of supply chain management.
• The strategic importance of networks and supply chains.
• Supply chain configuration.
• The dynamics of supply chain performance.
• Purchasing & supplies management.
• Supplier development.
• Account management.
• Logistics and distribution.
• Fast response and just in time.
• Inventory management.
• Process technology strategy.
• The management of information and IT across organisations.
• Interaction and relationship management.
• The design chain.
• Global and international supply chain management.
• Political, ecological and economic policy issues in supply chain management.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the main concepts in supply chain dynamics.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the strategic supplier relationship management strategies.
• Explain the core operations and supply chain processes within an organization.
• Critically discuss the reasons why supply chain management is a strategic function in modern organisations.
• Explain the sustainability issues concerned with complex modern supply chains.
• Recognize the need to identify supply chain risk and their drivers and explore risk mitigation strategies in supply chains.
• Realize the trade-offs embedded in the outsourcing, re-shoring and offshoring decisions.
• Analyse organizations utilizing operational models and frameworks to explain their core supply chain processes, analyse their relationship with stakeholders with associated risks, strategies and challenges.
• Develop an understanding that supply chains are complex and adaptive networks and need to be managed dynamically.

Indicative reading list

Kim, S. and Chae, S. (2022) ‘Shareholder Value Effects of Ethical Sourcing: Comparing Reactive and Proactive Initiatives’, Journal of Business Ethics, 179(3), pp. 887–906.

Lee, H.L. (2024) ‘The triple-A supply chain’, 82(10), pp. 102–113.

Montabon, F., Pagell, M. and Wu, Z. (2016) ‘Making Sustainability Sustainable’, Journal of Supply Chain Management, 52(2), pp. 11–27.

Swink, M., Melnyk, S., Hartley, J.L. & Cooper, M.B. (2024) "Managing Operations Across the Supply Chain" 5th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill

Villena, V.H. and Gioia, D.A. (no date) ‘A more sustainable supply chain’, 98(2), pp. 84–93.

Subject specific skills

Analyse and identify the performance measures for supply chains of various sectors and industries.
Analyse an organizations utilizing operational models and frameworks to explain their core supply chain processes and operations.
Examine the supplier relationships with associated risks, benefits and relationships management strategies.
Explain how supply chain performance measurement enhance customer value.

Transferable skills

Understanding of managerial roles at the inter organisational interfaces within organisations.
Indirect experience gained through key guest talks from influential organisations in supply chain domain.
Applying analytical skills in problem solving, communication and information retrieval within the cases studied.
Be able to analyse and address the current and most up to date challenges faced by supply chain professionals.
Present arguments and suggestions clearly and academically in both oral and written form.
Analyse and identify the performance measures for a supply chain.
Developing a strategic overview for the link between commercial success and supply chain performance.