Sustainable Supply Chain and Logistics – MSc

The module will enable the learner to foster an understanding of the role of the operations function within an organisation and the outward impact of operations and supply chain decisions on stakeholders, sustainability, and corporate responsibility. Learners will explore how operations and supply chain management integrate with other business functions, driving efficiency, strategic advantage, and overall organisational success. Key topics include process optimisation, risk management, and the role of technology and innovation in transforming operations.

This module introduces learners to the range of issues and related decisions that procurement managers face. By examining core procurement principles, frameworks, and tools, the learner will gain an understanding of how to plan and execute a procurement strategy that supports corporate goals and broader business objectives in complex, global, sustainability-driven environments. The learner will learn how procurement can enhance both the bottom line by reducing costs and the top line by increasing revenues. This module examines topics central to the strategic management of procurement, including category management, supplier selection and development, supplier relationship management, negotiation and contract management, cost, price, and value analysis, and purchasing ethics.

This module aims to develop students’ understanding of financial management and business strategy within global supply chain contexts, with particular emphasis on environmental sustainability and regulatory considerations. It examines how financial decision-making supports effective and resilient supply chain management while balancing financial performance with long-term value creation.

Students will gain insight into the governance, reporting, compliance, and control frameworks required to manage organisational finances and achieve strategic objectives. The module introduces modern financial theory and the practical aspects of raising capital through IPOs and rights issues, and evaluates mergers, acquisitions, and management buyouts within global operations.

The module also explores current and emerging financial risks and opportunities, including those linked to sustainability, regulation, and global market uncertainty, supporting informed and responsible financial decision-making in supply chains.

This module introduces participants to the key concepts involved in business research and to develop their understanding of the uses and relevance of the major research methodologies employed. The material covered in the module will form the basis for the applied research project element of the programme, as well as assisting the student’s research activities across the modules which make up the curriculum.

This module will focus on the challenges and opportunities facing leaders in contemporary organisations and explore the skills and competencies required to be an effective leader. Students will explore issues around leading effective teams, leading inclusive cultures and leading change. The module will focus on the key skills required for leaders at all levels to be effective, including influencing skills, negotiation techniques, managing conflict and communicating across cultures. Students will have an opportunity to reflect on their own leadership potential and ways to develop their leadership capabilities.

This module introduces students to supply chain and logistics analytics with a strong focus on sustainability and ethical decision-making. It develops learners’ ability to apply statistical, predictive, and AI-informed analytical techniques to real-world supply chain data. Students learn to analyse, visualise, and communicate insights using dashboards to support transparency and sustainable performance. The module emphasises optimisation-based solutions that balance financial, operational, and environmental considerations in global supply chains.

The project builds on the research methods module and serves as the capstone component of the programme. The research project will be strategic in nature and consist of 20,000 words, excluding appendices. It is designed to support the integration of curriculum content and consolidate student learning across the programme. As a significant element of the overall qualification, the project will draw on analytical and evaluative competencies developed through the programme.

Students are encouraged to engage with contemporary challenges in sustainable supply chain and logistics, including but not limited to responsible sourcing, circular economy practices, decarbonisation of logistics, ethical procurement, resilience, and the role of digital technologies in enabling sustainable operations. Projects may critically assess organisational strategies, industry practices, or policy frameworks that support the transition to more sustainable and resilient supply chains.

The project provides an opportunity for students to develop and apply advanced research skills while pursuing a topic aligned with their professional interests. The project also enables students to demonstrate their ability to undertake independent research, synthesise complex information, and generate evidence-based recommendations for strategic decision-making.