The Supply Chain Operating Model
How to structure roles, decision rights and cadence so the supply chain runs as one system.
By SupplyChain.management · Last updated
Definition
A supply chain operating model defines the structure, roles, decision rights and meeting cadence through which supply chain work gets done.
Why it matters
Structure and decision rights determine outcomes more than tools do, because they decide who can act.
Example
A weekly execution review, monthly S&OP and quarterly network review gave each decision type a clear home and owner.
How to interpret it
If the same issues resurface across multiple meetings, decision rights are unclear.
How to improve it
Define decision rights explicitly, build a linked cadence from weekly to quarterly, and give every KPI a single accountable owner.
Common mistakes
Reorganising the chart without changing decision rights or cadence.