Supply Chain Management includes all the processes that help to convert raw materials into finished products and deliver them to the client. Those who work in supply chain management help to monitor the production and distribution of goods and services and take steps to bring overall efficiency into the process.
Supply chain workers can be employed in sourcing, production, distribution, logistics, or returns. Each division offers varied positions, some of which can lead to C-Suite roles.
In this article, we will explore the supply chain management salary in South Africa, factors that affect salary, and how a degree can increase earning potential.
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Supply Chain Management Salary in South Africa
Individuals working in supply chain management in South Africa earn a wide range of salaries depending on their functional role, experience, and level of education.
Most companies require the expertise of supply chain managers to help them negotiate with suppliers, keep track of production, and use reliable logistics partners to help deliver the goods on time.
With the consumer trend shifting towards online shopping, companies also need supply chain logistics to manage returns or reverse supply chain management. Additionally, they help manage and optimise e-commerce sales delivery.
Several factors affect supply chain management salary in South Africa. They are as follows:
1. Experience
One of the biggest factors that determines salary in supply chain management is the experience an individual has. Those with experience have advanced knowledge in regard to risks and forecasting and also have the skills needed to navigate challenges.
2. Geographical Location
Individuals working in larger cities, in manufacturing hubs or in major ports will earn higher salaries due to demand. Supply chain managers must consider this factor when deciding on a job.
3. Company Size
Conglomerates and multinational companies with multiple operational and distribution hubs generally pay higher salaries due to the high volume of goods and the multiple supply routes they must manage.
4. Industry
Certain industries, such as pharmaceuticals, defence or mining, pay higher wages to those employed in supply chain management jobs due to the complexity and scale of their operations.
Read more about Where to Study Supply Chain Management in South Africa? here
What is the Supply Chain Management Salary in South Africa Per Month?
The supply chain management salary per month takes into consideration various positions and experience levels. A Supply Chain Manager makes R54,167 per month, while a Demand Planner makes R40,000 as of December 2024, according to Talent.com.
Overall, the monthly average supply chain management salary in South Africa is R100,000, according to Talent.com. The lowest monthly salary is R27,097 for entry-level positions, while the highest is R558,391 for experienced positions.
The table below lists the average supply chain management salary per month for positions with degrees of experience. Figures have been sourced from Indeed.com and Talent.com and are accurate as of December 2024.
| Supply Chain Management Position | Average Monthly Salary |
| Supply Chain Director | R67,630 |
| Production Planner | R29,633 |
| Buyer | R25,000 |
| Purchasing Manager | R37,500 |
| Warehouse Worker | R16,500 |
Explore What Does a Supply Chain Manager Do? here
What is the Supply Chain Management Salary at Entry-Level?
Students who complete an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) can seek entry-level positions in supply chain management. These roles can be found in logistics, planning, sourcing, or production. Practical experience helps individuals develop critical skills that will help them in their careers.
Supply chain management salary in South Africa for entry-level positions is R325,164 annually as of December 2024, according to Talent.com.
Entry-level positions include roles such as Logistics Resource Planner, Production Planner, Buyer, and Warehouse Administrator.
Mid-Level and Senior Supply Chain Manager Salaries
As supply chain workers gain experience, they can move to roles that offer more responsibilities. They can also choose a vertical transition in a different functional capacity, from planning to delivery.
According to Talent.com, Supply chain managers earn R650,000 annually, with entry-level managers earning R408,128, while experienced managers can earn R7,800,000 as of December 2024.
Mid-level managers can work in roles such as Quality Manager, Category Manager, or Logistics Manager. These roles can make between R400,000 to 630,000 annually, according to figures sourced from Talent.com.
The average Senior Supply Chain Manager salary in South Africa is R760,612 as of December 2024, according to Payscale. The salary range for supply chain manager is quite vast as those in senior positions earn relatively higher salaries due to their experience and advanced skill set.
Comparative: Supply Chain Management vs Finance Salary
Both supply chain management and finance roles pay competitive salaries as professionals gain experience and skills to tackle bigger challenges. These fields are integral parts of a business and are required for operations to run smoothly.
Supply chain management focuses on the flow of goods from raw materials to delivery, while finance focuses on maintaining the economic health of the company. These roles require different qualifications and skill sets, and it is difficult to transition from one to the other.
The average salary in supply chain management roles in South Africa is R1,200,000, while those in finance roles make R540,006 annually, according to Talent.com as of January 2025.
Earning Potential with a Supply Chain Management Degree
While it is possible to begin an entry-level supply chain management job, such as a warehouse worker, without an undergraduate degree, most supply chain roles require a university qualification. An undergraduate qualification such as a Bachelor of Business Administration can lead to roles such as Supply Chain Analyst and Supply Chain Executive.
As professionals gain experience, they can choose to enrol in advanced qualifications such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Supply Chain Management. This allows them to transition into middle and senior management positions in the supply chain.
In addition, individuals can also gain certifications. This demonstrates a commitment to the field and the eagerness of the individual to gain expertise in the field. Supply chain management certifications help boost a resume. Some available certifications are:
- Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
- Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM)
- SAP Digital Supply Chain
- SCPro
- Certified in Transformation for Supply Chain (CTSC)
Higher qualifications are directly linked with an increase in supply chain management salary in South Africa.
Read more about Efficiency in Supply Chain Management: Regenesys MBA Approach
Conclusion
Supply chain management helps to ensure the efficient flow of goods and services from raw materials to the finished product delivered to stores and homes across the world. In South Africa, individuals working in supply chain management can expect a wide range of salaries, which are influenced by experience, location, company size, and industry.
Most entry-level roles require an undergraduate degree, and as professionals gain experience and advanced qualifications, such as an MBA, they can increase their earning potential.
Those who are interested in a career in Supply Chain Management should visit the Regenesys website for more information regarding the MBA programmes. Students can choose from contact and online classes.
What is the Supply Chain Management Salary in South Africa? – FAQs
What is the supply chain management salary in South Africa?
Supply chain management salaries have a vast range, with a buyer making R25,000 monthly, while a Supply Chain Director can make 67,630.
What is the salary of a Supply Chain Manager in South Africa?
The supply chain manager’s salary in South Africa per month is R650,000 annually, with entry-level managers earning R408,128, while experienced managers can earn R7,800,000 as of December 2024.
What is the supply chain management degree starting salary in South Africa?
Professionals who have a degree such as a BBA or an MBA increase their earning potential for supply chain management roles in South Africa.
What factors affect salary in Supply Chain Management in South Africa?
Certain factors such as experience, geographical location, company size, and the industry affect supply chain management salary in South Africa.
What industries offer the highest salaries in supply chain management?
Industries like pharmaceuticals, mining, and defence often offer higher salaries due to the complexity and scale of their supply chain operations.
