Operational Risks in Supply Chains: What They Are and How to Manage Them

Supply chains are increasingly complex and interconnected. As a result, operational risks in supply chains have become one of the biggest threats to business continuity. These risks often go unnoticed until disruptions directly impact customers, costs and reputation.

What Are Operational Risks in Supply Chains?

Operational risks in supply chains are risks arising from processes, people, systems or third parties that disrupt the flow of goods information or services. They affect day-to-day operations and can quickly escalate into major business issues.

Why Are Supply Chain Operational Risks Often Missed?

Many organisations manage these risks reactively. They rely on periodic reviews and static reporting which provides limited visibility into what is actually happening across the chain. Ownership is often fragmented making end-to-end risk management difficult.

What Is the Impact of Operational Supply Chain Risks?

How Can Operational Supply Chain Risks Be Managed Better?

Effective management starts with clarity and continuous insight. Risks must be linked to operational processes and monitored on an ongoing basis rather than reviewed after incidents occur. Data plays a key role but judgment remains essential to interpret signals and take action.

Why This Matters Now

Supply chains are no longer just operational assets, they are strategic. Organisations that proactively manage operational risks build resilience and respond faster to change. Those that don't remain exposed to disruptions they could have seen coming.