Which role is NOT typically associated with supply chain management?

The role of a retail sales associate is primarily focused on direct interaction with customers, facilitating sales transactions, and providing customer service. This position is centered on the retail experience rather than the broader functions of supply chain management, which encompass various activities including sourcing, logistics, inventory management, and procurement.

In supply chain management, roles such as logistics coordinators, procurement specialists, and inventory analysts are integral. Logistics coordinators manage the movement and storage of goods, ensuring they are efficiently transported and available as needed. Procurement specialists focus on acquiring materials and services necessary for production, negotiating with suppliers to secure the best terms. Inventory analysts monitor stock levels and manage inventory control processes to maintain balance and minimize costs. Each of these roles directly contributes to the effectiveness and efficiency of the supply chain, whereas a retail sales associate's primary function lacks this systemic focus on supply chain operations.