Level 5 Supply Chain Management Courses | Certificates & Diploma
Tel: 0800 1422 522

Level 5 – Supply Chain and Operations Management

  • Unrivalled support from the first phone call
  • Choose how you study, pass units and gain your accredited qualification
  • First class course materials designed by industry experts

   Download Course Brochure

The Level 5 Supply Chain Management qualification is designed for students looking to progress to a senior management role within the supply chain management sector. The supply chain online course allows students to develop management skills as well as develop knowledge in specific areas of supply chain to support career development for professionals and efficiency in operations for organisations.

Course Introduction

Completing a course with the Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM) certifies your expertise, providing you with the tools to progress in your career. With unmatched resources and expert support, we offer more than just a qualification – we equip you to grow as an industry professional.

The course is provided in a bespoke distance learning format, with support from industry experts every step of the way. You can custom build your course to suit your current experience level, career ambitions, and employer’s objectives.

The IoSCM Level 5 Supply Chain Management qualification is available as an Award, Certificate, Diploma, and Extended Diploma. This internationally recognised qualification provides an overview of supply chain management, with expert guidance and high-quality online study materials aligned with National Occupational Standards.

When you have completed the Level 5 course, we offer qualifications to support your ongoing career development, including:

As well as training individuals, we also work with businesses to develop larger groups of employees. To find out more about how we can develop your team’s skills, call us on 0800 1422 522.

When you have completed your course you will gain an internationally recognised Diploma in Supply Chain Management from the Institute of Supply Chain Management and SFEDI Awards, an Ofqual regulated awarding organisation which is well recognised across the industry.

The IoSCM Level 5 Diploma in Supply Chain Management course is at the same level as a HND or 2 years of a degree but studied in your own time, at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home.

IoSCM qualifications are widely recognised and sought after by employers and businesses. The Level 5 course provides valuable industry knowledge tailored to you and your procurement career, giving you the best chance of progressing in your role.

If you would like to find out how this course could benefit your career, call our course advisory team today on 0800 1422 522.

When studying for a qualification with IoSCM, you can register for a TOTUM NUS Extra card and receive exclusive discounts from household names designed to keep you ahead of the game in both your personal and professional life. To view the full range of discounts, click here.

TOM NUS Extra Card for Student Discounts

Ofqual is the government organisation that regulates qualifications and the organisations that offer them, maintaining standards and therefore confidence in education across England.

When you choose to study with IoSCM, you can rest assured that every qualification is Ofqual regulated, guaranteeing high quality and a worthy investment for individuals and employers alike.

The NOS framework specifies the UK standards of performance that people are expected to achieve in their work, and the knowledge and skills they need to perform effectively. These standards are approved by UK government regulators.

Essentially, meeting the NOS framework means that with the IoSCM Level 3 Supply Chain course, you will learn exactly what is required in order to be successful in your job role. This will help you to become a valuable asset within your role, giving you the kinds of skills you couldn’t gain from a more academically-focused course.

Course Information

Is This Qualification Suitable for Me?

Level 5 is for learners who already have experience in the supply chain industry at a first-line management level and are looking to develop their knowledge at a middle-management level. This is also suitable for those who have recently moved into a management role, looking to enhance their skills.

Want to know more about the Level 5 qualifications? Take a look at the units section or alternatively, you can give our Course Advisory Team a call on 0800 1422 522. They will be more than happy to assist you with any queries you may have, as well as helping you find the right course for your needs. You can also speak with us on live chat or email info@ioscm.com.

STEP UP TO THE NEXT COURSE LEVEL – FIND OUT MORE

When studying with IoSCM, you will have access to the online learning platform and learning resource centre. The IoSCM learning platform provides you with all your course content, unit information and the option to interact with other learners studying the same course as you. The learning resource centre includes a huge library of resources for you to utilise which will support you throughout your learning.

All courses are studied through online and supported distance learning, so you can work through your course online at your own pace and utilise the support from the support and education teams as and when required.

When you enrol onto a course you will be assigned a learning support advisor. They will be your dedicated point of contact and will handle all queries while you study. You will also be assigned your own industry expert tutor for every unit you study, who will be on hand to provide you with guidance and feedback throughout your learning journey.

To apply for this course, give our course advisory team a call today on 0800 1422 522 or email info@ioscm.com. They’ll be happy to provide you with a step-by-step guide on the enrolment and payment process. To fund your qualification, you can organise payment in full or utilise one of our interest-free payment plan options. We also accept business-funded payments for employers seeking to fund their employees’ development. Contact us now and we can assess the best payment method for you during a free consultation call.

Units

The flexibility of our unit selection means you can customise your qualification so it is entirely tailored to you. You can choose the units that will benefit your current role or that will give you the skills required to take your career to the next level.

Award, Certificate, Diploma or Extended Diploma?

Our qualifications are available in four sizes, depending on how many units you choose to study. The qualification you choose will come with a generous package of unlimited support for the duration of your study time.

  • Award: Depending on the credit value of the units you select to study, the Award consists of one to two individual units and is the shortest qualification available.
  • Certificate: Select three to four units of study* from the extensive list of topics available. The Certificate is a great course to gain solid knowledge in a number of subjects.
  • Diploma: More in-depth and comprehensive, the Diploma usually consists of four to six units of study* selected to match each learner’s individual requirements.
  • Extended Diploma: The largest qualification option available, the Extended Diploma enables learners to select between six to nine units of study* to enhance their industry knowledge across various topics and subjects.

*Each unit of study has an allocated credit value. To find out more about the requirements for each qualification or discuss the range of units available, download the brochure or speak with an expert course advisor.

Accredited qualifications in the UK are based on units, each of which has a credit value.

The unit credit value (UCV) gives learners an indication of how long the unit will take to complete. For example, 1 credit value usually represents around 10 hours of learning. The more units you study, the more credits you’ll accumulate.

Each qualification has a minimum and maximum credit value allowance. Selecting the correct number of units to achieve the threshold for your chosen qualification is important. Our course advisors can help you decide which course and associated units will help you achieve your development aims.

The value of each unit does not demonstrate complexity, the level of qualification dictates this. For example, Level 2 is comparable to a GCSE qualification, and Level 7 is of the same level as a Master’s degree.

Listed below are the units available within the Level 2 qualification. For further details please download the IoSCM course brochure or speak with our team today

List of Units – Click each unit for further information

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how supply chain management supports organisational performance, competitiveness, and strategic success. It explores how effective supply chain design creates competitive advantage, the role of physical and information flows, and the barriers that can disrupt operations. The unit also examines strategic and operational planning, alongside the impact of modern technologies on supply chain development. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • How a supply chain supports organisations to increase competitive advantage
  • The effect of physical and information flows within a supply chain
  • The implementation of strategic and operational planning
  • How modern technology impacts the supply chain

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how logistics operations support efficient supply chains. It explores how logistics activities are planned, scheduled, and managed to meet customer needs, while considering legislation, risk, and industry developments. It also examines resource optimisation, performance measurement, and the use of technology and quality methods to improve efficiency. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The principles of logistics in supporting a supply chain
  • How to schedule logistics operations to meet customer needs
  • The optimisation of logistics operations
  • The application of technology and quality in logistics operations

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how innovation improves performance, resilience, and competitiveness in modern supply chains. It explores how organisations use advanced capabilities and Industry 4.0 technologies such as automation, data analytics, and digital systems to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. The unit also considers how innovation supports continuous improvement and aligns with business objectives. On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand modern supply chain capabilities and responsibilities
  • Support the operation, improvement, and secure management of logistics operations
  • Understand the impact of Industry 4.0 on supply chain performance strategy
  • Contribute to the use of modern technologies to achieve strategic business objectives

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of sea freight operations and their role within global supply chains. It explores the factors influencing maritime transport, including cargo management, scheduling, routing, and the role of freight forwarders and ship owners. The unit also examines shipping legislation, contracts, and financial strategies used to manage costs, pricing, and risk within sea freight operations. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The principles of sea freight management for a business
  • The legislation and regulations governing the movement of shipping
  • The role of shipping freight operations
  • Different financial strategies for shipping

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops an understanding of how road transport supports efficient and sustainable supply chains. It explores how operational, environmental, and regulatory factors influence transport planning, as well as how organisations use KPIs to monitor performance. It also covers transport security, risk management, and route planning to improve distribution across B2B and B2C operations. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The role of road transportation in supply chains
  • The setting of standards and performance measurements
  • The security requirements associated with road transport policy
  • Route planning conventions of road transport

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of quality management and its role in improving organisational performance. It explores different quality management systems, tools, and techniques used to maintain standards and address issues. The unit also examines the impact of implementing quality systems, including their benefits and challenges, and how quality information supports decision-making. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • A range of quality management systems used within a business
  • The impact of quality management systems
  • The tools used to manage quality in a business
  • How quality management tools improve organisational performance

The Planning and Control in Manufacturing and Production core unit provides learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to work successfully in a manufacturing and production management role.  Indicative content includes:

  • Components of production planning and its function within the supply chain
  • Inter-relationships between production planning, sales planning, and forecasting
  • Master scheduling and the evolution of manual control systems
  • Measures used to improve production planning performance

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of leadership and management principles and how they support organisational performance. It explores different leadership and management styles, stakeholder management, and the use of information to support decision-making. The unit also examines the role of managers in leading change, managing projects, and applying risk management approaches to achieve organisational objectives. On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the principles of leadership and management and personal development as a manager
  • Implement opportunities that support effective management techniques to meet stakeholder expectations
  • Analyse how decision-making is informed by knowledge and information
  • Understand the role a manager can play in managing change, projects, and risk assessment in an organisation

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how operations management supports the efficient delivery of products and services. It explores the role of operations managers, the relationship between operations and strategic planning, and how performance objectives are managed. The unit also examines process design, product and service development, and improvement techniques used to enhance operational performance. On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand this role of operations and operations management within a business
  • Support the relationship between operations management and strategic planning
  • Understand the design of operations processes and the products and services a business produces
  • Implement operations improvement techniques to enhance competitive advantage

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how warehouse operations are organised, controlled, and optimised to support supply chain performance. It explores warehouse policies, resource requirements, and operational planning, including layout design and outsourcing decisions. The unit also examines health and safety legislation, risk management, and the role of technology and financial systems in improving efficiency and performance. On completion of this unit, the learner will understand:

  • The importance of a robust warehouse policy
  • The resource requirements of warehousing
  • Health and safety legislation applicable to warehouse operations
  • The value of technological advancements in a warehouse
  • How financial systems operate within a warehouse

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of transport management and planning in national and global contexts. It explores how transport modes are selected and managed to meet demand, and how land use and infrastructure influence planning decisions. The unit also examines sustainability in transport management and the key drivers and issues associated with freight movement. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The purpose of transport planning
  • How historical developments and newer trends in land use affect transport planning
  • How the principles of sustainability are applied to transport planning
  • The key drivers behind the demand for transport
  • The challenges associated with freight movement

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops an understanding of project management principles and how they are used to deliver successful outcomes. It explores how projects are planned and controlled through scope, cost, and scheduling, and how objectives are set. The unit also examines risk and methods used to monitor, review, and evaluate project performance. On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the principles of project management
  • Identify a management project
  • Understand how to identify and manage risk
  • Monitor, review, and evaluate a project

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of ports and shipping within global maritime trade. It explores maritime trade demand, and business and financial strategies that support growth and competitiveness. The unit also examines container terminal management, agile ports, and how industry developments such as containerisation and collaboration are transforming modern port operations. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The importance of shipping and international maritime trade
  • How business strategy contributes to growth in maritime trade
  • How effective container terminal management aids ports operations
  • The concept of an agile port
  • Port operations and evolutions within a port

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how goods are transported efficiently and compliantly across national and international supply chains. It explores transport processes, legal and regulatory frameworks, cargo safety and handling requirements, transport planning, and mode selection, while examining the role of outsourced logistics providers in supporting effective and responsive supply chain performance. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The principles, processes, and regulations applicable to the national and international movement of goods
  • The safety, security, and handling requirements when transporting goods
  • The need for outsourcing logistics services

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how management information systems (MIS) support organisational performance, decision-making, and business strategy. It explores how businesses use data and information systems to improve efficiency, monitor objectives, and support strategic development. The unit also examines how MIS can drive organisational change, innovation, and continuous improvement across business operations. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The purpose and impact of using management information systems on a business
  • The relationship between management information systems and business strategy
  • How management information systems can drive change within a business
  • The role management information systems play in decision-making and business development

10 Unit Credit Values

  • Explain the different types of road transport
  • Explain the fleet requirements and selection processes within an organisation of your choice
  • Explain the environmental concerns and control mechanisms related to transport
  • Discuss factors that affect vehicle performance
  • Explain the method of measuring and reading vehicle performance levels
  • Describe how to develop and implement a contingency plan to improve vehicle performance
  • Explain the objectives of essential planned maintenance
  • Explain how the quality of service is incorporated into operational scheduling
  • Describe the security risks related to vehicles and loads
  • Discuss the security requirements of vehicles, loads, and individuals
  • Describe the factors to be considered when developing a route plan
  • Describe how to build a delivery chain and distribution channel
  • Describe the characteristics and relevance of establishing good distribution channels
  • Explain the role of governance within the conventions of road transport planning
  • Describe suitable methods of performance management and managing performance
  • Describe the personal and professional skills required for effective management
  • Discuss how different leadership styles impact the achievement of objectives
  • Analyse different motivational approaches that can be used within the workplace
  • Describe effective communication methods and the barriers that might exist
  • Describe why successful decision making requires effective communication

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of inventory management and its role in supporting operational and supply chain performance. It explores inventory models, stock control techniques, and forecasting methods, while examining how modern inventory systems enhance visibility, efficiency, responsiveness, and customer satisfaction in changing business and supply chain environments. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The purpose of inventory management
  • The principles of traditional inventory models
  • The impact of inventory management on the supply chain
  • How modern inventory systems improve the performance of inventory control

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how organisations operate within global markets and manage international trade. It explores trade agreements, global sourcing strategies, and market barriers, while examining international trade finance, funding methods, financial risk management, and the challenges associated with multi-currency transactions in global business operations. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The mechanisms of global trade agreements
  • Globalised trade and sourcing strategies
  • International trade finance and associated risks

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how freight is managed across global transport networks. It explores air and sea freight operations, including documentation, regulations, and key operational processes. The unit also examines the role of agile ports in improving efficiency and responsiveness, as well as the importance of multimodal transport in supporting international trade and container supply chains. On completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand air freight forwarding operations
  • Analyse sea freight forwarding operations
  • Assess the concept of an agile port
  • The role of multimodal transportation

8 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops understanding of how manufacturing impacts the environment and how organisations manage these effects through legislation, policy, and sustainable practices. It explores environmental risks, compliance requirements, and the use of Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and KPIs to monitor performance and drive continuous improvement in sustainability. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The environmental impact caused by manufacturing
  • Environmental legislation, regulations, and policymaking
  • Environmental risk management in manufacturing
  • Environmental management and monitoring systems

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how organisations manage customer relationships to improve service quality and customer satisfaction. It explores customer relationship management, communication strategies, and the development of customer-focused cultures within organisations. The unit also examines methods for measuring customer satisfaction and the importance of complaint handling in supporting loyalty and organisational reputation. On completion of this unit, you will:

  • Understand the importance of managing customer relationships
  • Understand how an organisation generates a customer-focused culture
  • Be able to assess, monitor, and improve levels of customer satisfaction
  • Understand the significance of managing customer complaints effectively

15 Unit Credit Values

This unit provides a critical understanding of how production is planned, coordinated, and controlled to meet demand efficiently within a supply chain. It explores production planning, forecasting, and its links with sales planning, as well as master scheduling and capacity control systems. The unit also examines how performance can be improved through waste reduction, benchmarking, and quality improvement methods.

On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The components of production planning and its function within the supply chain
  • The inter-relationships between production planning, sales planning, and forecasting
  • Master scheduling and the evolution of manual control systems
  • Various measures to improve production planning and performance

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of the role of procurement within an organisation. It explores how procurement and purchasing activities support business objectives, including the purchasing cycle, external market influences, and stakeholder requirements. The unit also examines legal and regulatory considerations, supplier relationship management, and negotiation strategies used to achieve value and effective procurement outcomes. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The key roles and focus of management within procurement
  • The effectiveness of collaborative supplier relationships
  • Negotiation tools to support procurement management

10 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops understanding of how organisations embed sustainability and ethical practices within business strategy and supply chain operations. It explores frameworks such as ESG and CSR, and examines how ethical practices influence organisational performance. The unit also considers sustainability concepts, circular economy approaches, and how businesses measure and improve environmental performance. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The advantages of sustainability and ethical practices for a business
  • How sustainability efforts in the supply chain improve circular economy
  • The impact of global environmental issues of businesses
  • The need for businesses to improve their environmental performance

8 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops understanding of how organisations plan and grow their business using strategic planning. It explores how businesses use planning techniques, including business process modelling, to support decision-making and performance improvement. The unit also examines how strategies are developed, evaluated, and implemented, and how strong business relationships support long-term success. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The process of strategic planning in business
  • The process of strategic development within a business
  • How to build and maintain collaborative business relationships

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of the strategic and operational role of human resource management within organisations. It explores workforce planning, employee relations, recruitment, and development, alongside the importance of equality and diversity in the workplace. The unit also examines how HRM supports performance through effective people management, continuous professional development, and performance measurement processes. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The value of human resource management within an organisation
  • The principles of human resource planning
  • The influence of human resource development on organisational success
  • The impact of human resource management on performance measurement and management

12 Unit Credit Values

This unit develops a critical understanding of how key business functions support organisational performance and strategic objectives. It explores the role of human resource management, financial management, and marketing in business operations and decision-making. The unit also examines how key legislation influences business activities and organisational performance. On completion of this unit, you will understand:

  • The contribution of human resource management to organisational goals
  • The management of finance in business
  • Marketing strategies in business
  • How legislation impacts business

Jobs and Progression

With the achievement of each level, you will expand your earning potential and evolve your career. The job titles become more prestigious and the salary grows as you continue your professional development.

With an IoSCM Level 5 Supply Chain qualification, you can expect to move into roles such as:

  • WAREHOUSE MANAGER: £28,000 – £45,000
  • PROCUREMENT BUYER: £29,000 – £50,000
  • TRANSPORT MANAGER: £32,000 – £50,000
  • AREA SALES MANAGER: £32,500 – £50,000
  • PRODUCTION MANAGER: £33,500 – £52,000
  • LOGISTICS MANAGER: £33,500 – £57,500
  • BUSINESS MANAGER: £35,000 – £63,000
  • OPERATIONS MANAGER: £35,500 – £60,000
  • SENIOR PROCUREMENT BUYER: £39,000 – £68,500
  • SENIOR DATA ANALYST: £40,000 – £50,000
  • SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGER: £40,000 – £65,000
  • PROCUREMENT MANAGER: £40,000 – £65,000
  • DELIVERY MANAGER: £40,000 – £70,000

Speak to us today about your career progression by calling 0800 1422 522.

*Salaries are based on national averages and may vary depending on location.

Our expertise

IoSCM Education Team 

We have some of the best tutors in the industry as members of the IoSCM education team. When you have enrolled onto an IoSCM course you’ll receive unlimited one-to-one support, guidance and feedback from your assigned tutor.

Communication can be organised through a phone call, email, text, video call or through the chat system on the online learning platform.

Because we have tutors specialising in every sector of the supply chain industry, we have a strong understanding of the requirements to succeed and progress within every field.

IoSCM Learning Support Team 

In addition to the tutor team, you will be assigned a learning support advisor who will ensure your learning journey goes to plan. They will introduce you to your course, help you navigate the learning platform and have frequent catch ups with you throughout your studies to make sure you’re on track.

Dedicated Business Support

If you’re an employer looking into training courses for employees, you will also have a dedicated business contact who can help you with finding the best training options based on your business requirements. Your business contact will also provide access to your employees’ course progression updates.

Our Client Base

Don’t just take our word for it; we’re trusted by thousands of businesses who have employees studying our distance learning courses, in 101 countries across the globe. From entry-level personnel to senior managers, we’re securing the future of the logistics and transport industry by delivering fully accredited UK qualifications.

 

Business Enquiry

Are you looking for training for your employees? Contact our Business Development team to discuss how IoSCM can create the perfect training package for you.

Our Business Development team are highly knowledgeable in the Supply Chain industry, with years of experience and proven success in guiding and advising organisations worldwide towards the best suited training for their requirements. Our team work with you, establishing an understanding of the current skills and knowledge of each team member along with the organisations development needs, to recommend a tailored supported training package for you and your team.

Benefits to Business

  • Dedicated, tailored business support
  • Assistance every step of the way
  • Learner Updates created for your business
  • Access to external support and resources in collaboration with IoSCM
  • One to one support for each and every member of your team
  • Group Learning available

Bespoke training available – take advantage of the full flexibility of IoSCM.

Corporate Membership

Created to support companies and organisations of all sizes, IoSCM Corporate Membership will advanced the capabilities of your business. With various grading of Corporate Membership available, you can access the professional resources, benefits and industry expert support suited to your business. Click here to find out more.

Submit your Business Enquiry

"I find the course material very relevant and applicable to the real business world which is important. The assignments guide you into summarising the research in your own words.

Feedback on assignments is quick and the course overview helps you keep track of your progress."

Penny Sayce, Stock Controller

Do you want more information?    Download Our Course Brochure