Supply chain management comprises all aspects of the management of a company including planning, purchasing, transportation, storage, distribution, customer service and inventory. Supply chain managers work behind the scenes in large stores but are responsible for holding the company together, managing expenses, boosting sales, and maximizing the profits and success of the entire company. Successful supply chain managers should be organized, able to handle stress, and possess excellent communication, analytic and logistics skills. A degree in supply chain management, as well as an advanced degree in business administration, is your best bet when it comes to entering this competitive and challenging industry. Supply chain managers' starting salaries averaged $45,771 in 2007 while supply chain managers with advanced education and experience made over $80,000 per year.