Managers in supply chain management, the critical dimension

Attracting and educating the right supply chain managers are a critical challenge to the realization of most supply chain objectives irrespective of the state of the economy (shortage of personnel several months ago or increasing lay‐offs currently). This is because of the richness of capabilities required to do the job well. Much of our teaching in logistics and supply chain management focuses on the technical aspects of the role. However, the importance and criticality of the human aspects are becoming increasingly apparent. A new approach to the people dimension is called for. This paper uncovers a set of emotional capabilities, which, if combined with the technical capability that is undoubtedly needed as well, would transform the industry. One emotional capability, the ability to influence, is examined by way of illustrating what we mean by emotional capability. Suggestions are offered for furthering managerial capabilities in supply chain management.