Are You Gaining a Competitive Edge in Your Supply Chain?
The supply chain industry is always going to be competitive, but especially so in the current economic climate both here in the U.S. and overseas. How can you find – and stay on – the leading edge?
It’s all about people. Having the right people on your team is the key to becoming the leader of the pack. According to recent findings by the University of Tennessee-Knoxville Global Supply Chain Institute advisory board, the recruitment and development of talented supply chain managers has never been more crucial. But why?
While the U.S. industry is making a comeback from the recession years, weak European markets are a threat to our country’s recovery and the future of the supply chain industry. Many economies in Europe remain flat, at best, with some countries still facing massive debt. And as their economies slow, so do their trade and transportation markets.
With transportation hurt worldwide by declining freight rates, falling salaries, and lower shipping volumes, executive recruiters are advising supply chain managers to invest in human resources so they can be better prepared to survive volatile markets.
What kind of employees should you be looking for?
Senior supply chain executives from 21 leading global companies recently met in Atlanta to discuss key supply chain issues. These industry thought leaders all agreed that it will be important for companies to hire supply chain professionals with the following skill sets and competencies in order to remain competitive in the market:
- Strong critical thinking and data analysis skills
- The ability to translate process improvements into the financial language of the executive suite, the boardroom and the balance sheet
- Six Sigma green belt training
- An understanding of how to apply lean to the entire supply chain and use value-stream mapping
- An ability to interact appropriately with customers
Where can you find the right employees?
If only it were as easy as posting a job ad. According to recent data, the number of supply chain employers struggling to fill positions is at an all-time high. There are people out there with the right education and experience, but somehow they are not connecting with the right employment opportunities.
This is where working with an experienced recruiter that specializes in the supply chain will help. They know how to find the top talent in the industry, through connections, history with candidates and companies, and the ability to reach out to candidates that your company can’t.
When you have the right people working for you, your company can thrive despite the ups and downs of the economy. If you’re struggling to find the best supply chain management candidates, don’t hesitate to call ZDA Supply Chain Recruiting. We’d be happy to discuss the current state of your industry and to help your company gain the competitive advantage.