Procurement and supply chain business functions have been under mounting pressure for the last few years, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to ease up anytime soon. Supply chains and procurement departments are going to feel more heat as the demand for online orders and express deliveries increases. Businesses want their supply and sourcing teams to be more efficient and quicker to satisfy customers in order to ensure repeat orders.
This reality has influenced supply chain and procurement recruitment. Here we have compiled a condensed guide to key technical skills that are in demand by procurement consultants.
1) Automotive purchasing
In July 2017, it was announced that diesel and petrol cars will be phased out, with an all-out ban planned for 2040. As a result, this has created a demand for experts in automotive purchasing, especially in sourcing hybrid powertrains.
The automotive industry now has an obligation to supply battery-powered and hybrid vehicles, and this has resulted in many automotive companies looking for the best talent in procurement. Sourcing and supply chain professionals should look to develop their skill set in this field so that their employability improves.
2) Supply and demand planning
Consumers expect shorter and shorter delivery timelines. Consequently, there is an urgent need for efficient and effective supply and demand planning. While the market for this has always been strong, the focus is now on professionals who can source products and components quickly and cost-effectively.
A professional who has the ability to source items to help a business cater to its customers’ needs will be able to choose from a wide array of procurement jobs.
3) Extended category management
To stay sustainable and operative, internal processes must be efficient. Supply chains want professionals who can source essential services to support certain categories, such as external marketing and professional services, for example. IT is a crucial service in a digitally connected world, and businesses are hiring professionals with specialist knowledge. Similarly, there are other sourcing and supply chain jobs for those professionals who have in-depth category expertise.
These are the three supply chain and procurement skills that will be in high demand in 2018. Sourcing and supply chain professionals should look to hone their proficiency in these areas to maximise employability.
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