Supply Chain Manager Onboarding Checklist

Supply Chain Manager Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Supply Chain Manager starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Logistics onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Supply Chain Manager, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Supply Chain Manager onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Supply Chain Manager Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company culture and values: The task involves providing a comprehensive overview of the company’s culture, values, and mission. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated company representative who can explain the organization’s core principles and how they align with the supply chain manager’s role.

2. Familiarization with company policies and procedures: This task entails acquainting the supply chain manager with the company’s policies and procedures related to logistics, procurement, inventory management, and transportation. The HR department or a senior supply chain manager usually performs this task, ensuring that the new hire understands the guidelines and can adhere to them.

3. Introduction to key stakeholders: The supply chain manager needs to be introduced to key stakeholders within the organization, such as department heads, executives, and team members. This task is typically performed by the hiring manager or a designated team member who can facilitate introductions and provide an overview of each stakeholder’s role and responsibilities.

4. Review of existing supply chain processes: The new supply chain manager should be provided with a comprehensive review of the existing supply chain processes, including procurement, warehousing, distribution, and transportation. This task is usually performed by the outgoing supply chain manager or a designated team member who can explain the current processes, identify areas for improvement, and answer any questions.

5. Training on company-specific software and tools: Many logistics companies utilize specialized software and tools to manage their supply chain operations. The new supply chain manager should receive training on these systems to ensure a smooth transition. This task is typically performed by the IT department or a designated trainer who can provide hands-on training and support.

6. Introduction to key suppliers and vendors: The supply chain manager should be introduced to key suppliers and vendors with whom the company has established relationships. This task is usually performed by the procurement department or a designated team member who can provide an overview of each supplier/vendor, their capabilities, and any existing contracts or agreements.

7. Familiarization with inventory management systems: Understanding the company’s inventory management systems is crucial for a supply chain manager. This task involves training on how to track, monitor, and optimize inventory levels using the company’s chosen software or tools. The task is typically performed by the inventory management team or a designated trainer.

8. Review of safety protocols and compliance requirements: Logistics companies often have strict safety protocols and compliance requirements to ensure the well-being of employees and the integrity of the supply chain. The supply chain manager should receive a thorough review of these protocols and requirements to ensure compliance. This task is typically performed by the safety or compliance department, or a designated team member.

9. Introduction to cross-functional teams: Supply chain managers often collaborate with various cross-functional teams, such as sales, operations, and finance. The new hire should be introduced to these teams and provided with an overview of their roles and responsibilities. This task is typically performed by the hiring manager or a designated team member who can facilitate introductions and explain the importance of cross-functional collaboration.

10. Review of performance metrics and KPIs: The supply chain manager should be familiarized with the company’s performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) that are used to measure the effectiveness of the supply chain operations. This task is typically performed by the operations or analytics team, or a designated team member who can explain the metrics, their targets, and how they contribute to overall business goals

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Supply Chain Manager checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Supply Chain Manager up to speed and working well in your Logistics team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.