Supply chain and operations field has evolved significantly and is no longer relegated to the background as it was traditionally. Today supply chain and operations managers play a critical role in the success of modern businesses. These roles require a high level of analytical acumen and quantitative aptitude to predict and manage complex scenarios and drive business scalability. Responsibilities in this role can also include on-site execution, which requires strong operational and people management skills. However, within the general management MBA programs, there are few opportunities for in-depth preparation of analytical skills specific to these roles. It is important for aspiring supply chain and operations professionals to carefully select MBA programs that provide the necessary training and expertise to excel in their roles immediately following MBA.
If you are someone interesting in finding the right B School for Supply chain and operations focus here are three factors that you should consider when choosing a program that meets your career goals.1. The school's focus on excellence in operations managementEvaluate whether the school you are researching is committed to promoting excellence in supply chain and operations management. It is ideal that you find a business school that has its own operations management center of specialization. This indicates school’s strong commitment to the field, interest in research work in the area and availability of ample resources and development opportunities to the students.
2. Assess the curriculumExamine the extent to which the MBA curriculum focuses on supply chain and operations. The best programs will offer more than a few courses in this area. They will offer specializations, concentrations, hands-on learning opportunities, and consulting projects specific to operations management. Ideally, the program should have atleast 8-10 elective courses (spread across analytical design, data analytics, financial management, strategy, and human capital) in the field so you can delve into the topics that interest you most.
3. Recruitment PipelinesA crucial aspect of choosing an MBA program for folks interested in operations leadership is understanding the career opportunities the school can open for you. Find out about recruitment statistics and average base salaries for graduates in operations management positions. Look for programs that have a proven track record of placing students in reputable companies with competitive salary packages.
In the U.S., the base salary range for operations management graduates from top tier business schools post-MBA is estimated to be between $130,000 and $180,000. Keep this benchmark in mind when evaluating the potential return on investment for other programs.
Based on the above criteria, the top MBAs for people interested in supply chain design and operations leadership are - MIT Sloan and the Ross School of Business. MIT SloanSloan is known for its cutting-edge research in operations and offers a comprehensive range of electives covering various aspects of operations management, from supply chain management and analytics to process and network design to supply chain tech product development. In addition, the Sloan School offers a sustainability certification that underscores its commitment to integrating sustainable practices into operations.
Ross School of BusinessThe Ross School of Business is another good choice. The school emphasizes operations management in its first-year curriculum and offers a global operations program in partnership with the University of Michigan's Tauber Institute for Global Operations. With more than 24 electives focused on operations and technology, Ross offers ample opportunities for specialization. You can also gain hands-on experience in real-world operations scenarios through action learning projects.
Nine to ten percent of Ross MBA graduates take jobs in operations or logistics each year. That's a significant number.
Considering the resources, curriculum and career prospects offered by MIT Sloan and the Ross School of Business, they are top contenders for those who want to make their mark in operations management. However, there are other MBA programs that also offer an excellent focus on operations management, networking opportunities and career prospects.
Take the time to research, think, and make an informed decision about creating a target list of school that align with your long-term goals.These are some other popular MBA programs in the US with strong Operations Management curriculum:
1. Michigan State College (Broad)
2. Carnegie Mellon College (Tepper)
3. Arizona State College (W.P. Carey)
4. College of Tennessee-Knoxville (Haslam)
5. Ohio State College (Fisher)
6. Georgia Tech (Scheller)
7. Pennsylvania State College-College Park (Smeal)
If you are looking to learn about roles and opportunities in Supply Chain and Operations feel free to reach out for a candid discussion.Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex admissions interviewer)
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