E-commerce has changed the way logistics works within the last decade. With the huge increase of online stores the requirements on supply chains have dramatically increased and are running 24/7 in order to deliver as fast as possible. This has brought about significant changes to how companies recruit staff.
Rising Demand for Specialist Talent
There are a wide choice of careers currently available within the logistics supply chain, some more prominent than others within the current online retail explosion. Many organisations are currently seeking highly skilled individuals within a variety of different roles. Roles including; Warehouse Managers, Transport Planners, Procurement Specialists, and Supply Chain Analysts.
It’s also important for employers to look for candidates that have skills and/or knowledge in relation to inventory management, stock optimisation, demand forecasting, automation and the use of data analytics. People with experience working in logistics are not at a disadvantage in this respect as their existing experience is seen as highly valuable. Nevertheless, many employers are looking for people with logistics experience who can quickly learn about digital systems and how they can be used to improve the way in which things are done.
As e-commerce continues to grow it will be critical for companies to secure the best specialist talent in the industry to ensure that they are able to meet customer’s demands in an increasingly competitive market.
The Growth of Technology-Focused Roles
With online retail growing rapidly over the last 10 years there have been significant changes in the way that many logistics companies operate. The growth of technology, automation and innovative practices has seen many organisations embrace new methods of managing their logistics systems. As a result of this many new roles have been created and are now being recruited for by employers across the sector.
As technology is becoming more and more the core of how the logistics industry operates there will be an increased demand for candidates with skills in logistics software, data management, systems integration and automation technology. Many of these roles will require candidates with good knowledge of the operational side of logistics as well as the technology element. Candidates with a good blend of logistics knowledge and technology skills will be highly sought after for future recruitment within the industry.
Speed and Flexibility Are Essential
Due to e-commerce the customer’s expectations have changed dramatically. Same day delivery, next day delivery and in time tracking are now the standard and not a premium service. The modern logistics company has to be highly flexible and able to handle peaks in times of high demand. Warehouses and distribution centers have to operate around the clock in order to meet the customer’s requirements.
With online retail continuing to experience year on year growth there will be fluctuations throughout the year with peaks occurring for both seasonal events and for promotional activity. All staff within the supply chain will need to be able to respond to these fluctuations throughout the year.
Competition for Talent Continues to Intensify
Whilst recruitment challenges between organisations in the supply chain are often reported, it is increasingly acknowledged that competition for skilled personnel exists across a range of industries. Individuals with skills associated with data analysis, digital transformation and strategic development of processes and structures, are widely seen to have highly transferable skills which can be applied in multiple markets, industries and functions. As a result, organisations are having to utilise a range of different approaches in a bid to attract the candidates they
Employer brand is becoming more important when attempting to attract the right candidate for roles within a company. The organisation’s career development opportunities and employee benefits also need to reflect what is advertised. Flexible working hours are no longer enough to attract the right people.
Global Supply Chains Require Global Talent
As supply chains go global so does the requirement for talent with international experience. The skills that professionals possess to manage operations across different countries, cultures and time zones are becoming increasingly valuable as global supply chains continue to grow.
There is a growing need for supply chain professionals with experience of managing complex cross border supply chains. This would include knowledge of the ways of doing business, markets and cultures in countries around the world. Companies are now looking for candidates globally with experience in areas such as supply chain management, procurement, customs, freight forwarding and logistics.
The Future of Logistics Recruitment
The continued dominance of E-commerce within the retail sector will have a continuing impact on the logistics recruitment sector. As technology advances, the consumer continues to demand more and the complexity of the supply chain continues to increase. The need for skilled logistics professionals will continue to rise.
Companies must quickly recognise that building a strong recruitment strategy is key to building a strong supply chain / logistics organisation in a rapidly changing world and start the process of finding the right people to develop a supply chain of the future.
Alchemy Global Talent Solutions, a worldwide recruitment agency with over 30 years experience, has the expertise and knowledge to help you recruit locally or worldwide. Please do not hesitate to contact us on info@alchemygts.com.
