Artificial intelligence is revolutionising the supply chain.

Sales forecasting, error detection, stock management, improved lead times, automation of certain tasks… Its potential is vast. A hybrid role by definition, the AI project manager in the supply chain leads technological developments in AI with the aim of improving logistics performance and optimising transport. 

Role and responsibilities of the AI supply chain project manager

They are known as an AI manager or AI project manager in the supply chain. They build AI and data ecosystems, leverage AI technologies and support the transformation of the organisation’s supply chain. They develop a strategy to streamline logistics flow management processes and improve information systems by selecting the relevant stakeholders and tools.

The AI Supply Chain Project Manager carries out audits, makes assessments, defines the scope of work and implements the necessary measures. They oversee operational management, manage the scheduling of AI and data projects, and monitor the implementation and roll-out of new solutions whilst adhering to budgets, deadlines, ethical standards and constraints.

To ensure a smooth technological transition within the supply chain, they raise staff awareness of the challenges involved and train them on new processes (whether relating to the management of physical or information flows). They coordinate teams on various shared issues, whilst always liaising with senior management.

Through the implementation of AI and data, they modernise the logistics chain and transform the supply chain model to improve speed, adaptability, reliability and efficiency.

Business implications

AI and data in the supply chain play a role in several areas

Data analysis helps to accelerate the automation of logistics processes (Robotic Process Automation), forecasting and stock management (for example, Amazon’s warehouse managed by 4,000 robots), fraud detection, production monitoring, evaluation of delivery processes, and the interpretation of data in foreign languages…

Chatbots and callbots improve customer and supplier services

Augmented reality can now be used to train staff for various roles within the warehouse or guide employees in their tasks (thereby reducing errors)

Robotisation enables tasks such as depalletising; it will help eliminate tedious tasks, thereby adding value to the roles.

All these advances represent time and cost savings.

To give an example in this area, we can cite the partnership between ENGIE and VEKIA partnership, which provides end-to-end supply chain management: ENGIE carries out 14,000 service calls a day (maintenance, heating and air-conditioning repairs, etc.), has 1 million product references in its information system, and holds stock across 230 branches.

VEKIA’s role is to use AI to automate orders to warehouses, calculate remaining stock levels in real time and generate order proposals for each management point.

Ethical implications
The supply chain raises numerous ethical issues:

environmental impact and sustainability, sourcing and origin of raw materials, CSR… As the supply chain utilises big data, its handling must respect everyone’s rights and freedoms (transparency, confidentiality, security, impartiality, human oversight, etc.)

The AI supply chain project manager may consult experts such as AI lawyers or ethics officers, whose support is invaluable in addressing these complex issues.

aivancity’s programmes incorporate all aspects of artificial intelligence and its challenges—whether technical, technological, commercial, ethical or legal—into their curriculum. This is a comprehensive, hybrid programme that equips future ‘AI engineers’ to tackle the many economic and societal challenges associated with harnessing the potential of data and artificial intelligence. It can be supplemented by a doctoral or PhD programme.
Key skills
An AI Manager in the supply chain is a hybrid role, requiring both extensive knowledge of supply chain management and significant technological expertise. Proficiency in software, IT tools and AI/data systems is essential (ERP, TMS, WMS, EDI, machine learning, IoT, NLP/NLU, data science, etc.). The analysis of complex data is also one of the role’s key skills.

The AI Project Manager in the supply chain has a thorough understanding of supply chain functions and processes (S&OP – Sales & Operations Planning – a key driver for improving efficiency and optimising resources, flows and stock levels). They also possess expertise in AI and data and coordinate collaboration between various specialists on joint projects.

A strong communicator (in English and French), they possess excellent interpersonal skills. Their leadership qualities help them to engage teams in their transformation and continuous improvement projects. Analytical ability, precision, logical thinking and a methodical approach are their key strengths. Keeping abreast of technological developments is important for this role, and the ability to anticipate trends ensures he is always one step ahead.

Trends and drivers of change
An AI project manager in the supply chain can progress to a role as supply chain director or even AI director. They may also offer their services as a consultant.

By transforming the supply chain and its various roles, AI and data innovations are opening up fascinating new prospects. The range of challenges facing the AI project manager in the supply chain is at an all-time high.

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