PhD Position in Supply Chain Industry x Academia Initiative; Supply Chain Power

Aufgaben:

• Develop and structure future world scenarios for 2050 and derive implications for supply‑chain design, operations and organization
• Research and analyze long‑term drivers of change such as geopolitics, technology, environment, societal developments, and workforce evolution
• Explore what companies need to establish today to build resilient, future‑ready, and differentiating supply‑chain capabilities for 2050
• Translate broad first‑phase insights into focused themes and more concrete pathways in a second phase of the project
• Contribute to the identification and further development of potential focus areas such as future workforce models, digitalization, transport and logistics concepts, supply‑chain networks, or organizational design
• Work closely with experts and executive leaders across the supply‑chain organization to integrate practical perspectives and challenge ideas in a real industrial context
• Prepare analyses, workshop inputs, structured concept papers, and management‑ready materials to drive the progress of the project
• Build a strong bridge between scientific methodology and practical application

You will gain deep insights into multiple supply‑chain functions and beyond inside one of the world's largest truck manufacturers and collaborate with practitioners, experts, and leaders across a broad industrial environment. The role offers a unique combination of strategic relevance, academic freedom, practical exposure, and cross‑functional learning.

• We are looking for a curious and driven researcher who enjoys tackling big‑picture questions, thrives in structured analytical work, and is motivated to combine academic thinking with practical transformation in a global industrial environment
• This role is particularly suited for candidates who want to work on topics with both strategic depth and practical relevance, and who are excited about shaping the direction of the Supply Chain 2050 project
• Excellent university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Operations, Business, Economics, Future Studies, or a related field
• A strong theoretical background and preferably practical experience in at least one relevant field, such as supply‑chain management, logistics, operations, industrial engineering, digital transformation, sustainability, organizational development, or strategic foresight
• Strong interest in future‑oriented supply‑chain questions, long‑term transformation topics, and the role of supply chains as a future differentiator
• Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to connect broad external developments to business and supply‑chain implications
• Ability to think openly, creatively, and beyond near‑term constraints, and to translate broad ideas into structured insights, research questions, and concrete pathways
• Experience with, or strong motivation to apply, scenario work, strategic foresight, transformation, and organizational development
• Ability to work independently, proactively, and with a strong sense of ownership and responsibility
• Strong communication skills and confidence in working across interdisciplinary stakeholders in academia and industry
• Very good English skills;
  German is a plus
• Curiosity, positive energy, and genuine enthusiasm for exploring future worlds, challenging today's assumptions, and helping shape what supply chains could become by 2050

• Barrier‑free workplace
• Good public transport
• Discounts for employees
• Meal discounts
• Internet connection
• Annual profit share possible
• Flexitime possible
• Mobile phone possible
• Coaching
• Health benefits
• Company retirement
• Canteen‑cafeteria
• Events for employees
• In‑house doctor
• Home office possible

At Daimler Truck, we change today's transportation and create real impact together. We take responsibility around the globe and work together as one global team. We drive our progress and success together – everyone at Daimler Truck makes the difference. Together, we want to reduce our carbon footprint, increase safety on and off the track, develop smarter technology and attractive financial solutions.

All essential, to fulfill our purpose – for all who keep the world moving.