Master the principles of supply chain management.
In a competitive landscape that is constantly changing, businesses are increasingly challenged by situations that demand agile and responsive supply chain strategies. Understanding and navigating these complexities is crucial for organisations to maintain operational efficiency, manage costs effectively, and enhance customer satisfaction.
The Global Supply Chain Management online course is designed to introduce the fundamental principles of the end-to-end supply chain process. Connecting theoretical concepts with practical applications, you will explore effective supply chain strategies focused on lean and agile approaches. As you learn to apply key principles and frameworks, you will develop strategic recommendations to improve your organisation’s supply chain performance.
Programme information – Online
- DurationApproximately 20-24 hours of study, plus reflection activities
- LocationOnline
- Cost£950
Module dates
Modules 1 and 2
Immediate online access to self-paced learning.
Module 3
Next live online sessions: 3 July and 7 July 2025 (09:00 - 14:00)
Please note: both Module 3 dates must be attended. Bookings will automatically be enrolled on the next available live online session. The option to change to a later date is available after booking is completed.
Concessions available
Cranfield alumni can claim a 20% discount via .
Who is this for?
Anyone seeking to enhance their understanding of supply chain management fundamentals and principles in a business environment.
Programme impacts
Gain a comprehensive understanding of strategic supply chain management, including the five key areas of:
- Procurement,
- Supply chain strategy,
- Logistics,
- Warehouse management,
- Network design.
Build your confidence in making recommendations to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain operations within your organisation.
Programme structure
This course includes 3 modules:
- Modules 1 and 2 are online and self-paced, so you choose where and when you learn.
- Module 3 is live online with peers and Cranfield faculty to embed your knowledge and learnings.
What you'll learn
Module one – The end-to-end supply chain function
Online self-paced learning (estimated four hours – plus reflection activities)
Learn the fundamental principles that shape supply chain management and their potential impacts on competitive advantage.
- Analyse how supply chains create value and competitive advantage.
- Explore network structure and flows within supply chains.
- Assess five key areas of supply chain management and the connections between theoretical concepts and their real-world impacts.
Module two – Advanced principles of logistics and supply chain management
Online self-paced learning (estimated six hours – plus reflection activities)
Explore the practical foundations of supply chain principles and how to apply them.
- Identify the purpose and organisational role of the procurement function.
- Explore strategic and tactical issues involved in procurement management.
- Analyse the critical components of a supply chain strategy and its impact on enhancing customer value.
- Evaluate the essential decision areas within logistics and the significance of multimodal solutions.
- Apply these principles to warehouse operations, processes, and equipment types.
- Examine the fundamental elements and interconnections that create a physical supply chain network and related cost trade-offs.
Module three – Strategic supply chain management frameworks
Live online (two half days, five hours each – plus reflection activities)
To embed and enhance your learning from the two online modules, you’ll join peers and our expert faculty in a live online environment to advance your understanding of supply chain management.
- Engage in discussions and practical activities to deepen your understanding of supply chain challenges and strategies.
- Achieve clarity on how you can improve your own organisation’s supply chain performance.
Digital Badges and Certificate
On completion of each module, you will be issued with a digital badge that can be displayed on your professional profiles, serving as compelling evidence of your expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of business and management knowledge.
On successful submission of the final assignment you will receive a certificate of achievement.
Programme Director
How to apply
Next steps
Our team of executive development experts will be happy to talk to you about your development needs, please email us or call +44 (0)1234 754500.
