Strategy and Supply Chain Management 5 credits

Modern businesses face unprecedented supply chain complexity as global networks become more interdependent and vulnerable to disruption. You cannot separate strategic positioning from supply chain decisions—they are fundamentally intertwined, yet many executives still view operations as tactical implementation rather than strategic capability. This course demonstrates how supply chain management functions as a two-way bridge: translating strategic initiatives into operational reality while channeling operational insights back to inform strategic decisions. You will explore both top-down strategy implementation and bottom-up strategy formation through supply chain management. In this course, we cover how different competitive strategies demand distinct supply chain configurations, covering the analysis and design of global network configurations, including make-or-buy and offshoring/nearshoring analysis, globalisation patterns, and governance structures. The aim is to understand modularity and governance in global value chains. Upon completion, you will understand how supply chain management both executes strategic vision and generates strategic insights from operational experience. You will analyse complex supply chain challenges and design solutions that align with strategic objectives while recognising how operational realities should influence strategic direction. Most importantly, you will develop the capability to facilitate the two-way flow between strategy and operations, positioning you to contribute meaningfully to both strategic development and execution in your organisation.