Developing Competences in the Organization : Supply Chain Management

Abstract

This thesis focuses on developing a Plan for building the required future competencies for the supply chain management organization at the case company. The case unit of this thesis is a business unit that is responsible for the supply chain management.

This study utilizes Applied action research. The current state of the business problem was assessed by utilizing qualitative research methods. The data collection contained three rounds with relevant key stakeholders, which included internal document analysis, virtual interviews, and co-creation workshops. The current state analysis revealed issues regarding three areas: (1) competence development, creating the culture and way of working for learning, (2) competence development planning, and the creation of the competence development plan guiding the activities of competence development systematically, and (3) supply chain management talent, and building capabilities for the workforce of the future. The same three areas were explored via available literature, published knowledge and industry best practices.

As an outcome, this study suggested a Plan for the unit on how to proceed in building and developing competencies in the organization to meet future skill and capability needs and to drive organization strategy and strategic intent. Today businesses and supply chains have been impacted by different phenomena, creating increasingly competitive business landscapes, ever-increasing complexity, and digital revolution. This thesis has demonstrated that continuous learning in the organization has become essential and imperative for organizations to succeed. Sustaining competitiveness in today’s market requires organizations to be adaptive, innovative, and constantly changing. This requires continuously learning new skills. By harnessing these skills and capabilities correctly, the case company can increase its abilities to grow and renew.