Amid ongoing talent shortage, 80% of employees in logistics industry plan to change jobs next year

SINGAPORE: A recent survey conducted by recruitment company Robert Walters found alarming talent shortages have been identified in the local supply chain, procurement, logistics, and sales and marketing industries. The findings shed light on critical challenges businesses face, significantly impacting hiring timelines and employee retention.

The survey indicates that companies, particularly in logistics, grapple with a lengthy four to six-month period to identify suitable candidates, exacerbating the strain on operations. Logistics firms, requiring an average of 50 personnel daily for order processing and deliveries, face heightened difficulties due to the repetitive nature of the work, leading to a notable turnover within a year for some employees.

The survey highlighted a palpable sense of discontent among professionals in these industries. A staggering 80 per cent of employees in procurement and logistics express intentions to change jobs in the coming year, with a parallel sentiment observed in the sales sector, where over 60 per cent said they are contemplating job transitions.

Interestingly, the salary expectations of job seekers in these fields surpass market standards by approximately 20 per cent, posing an additional challenge for employers.

Within the logistics sector, the survey emphasizes the necessity for digital transformation, emphasizing the demand for individuals with relevant skills and a nuanced understanding of the business. In contrast, the sales industry is witnessing a resurgence in physical shopping post-pandemic, leading to an increased demand for specific roles such as brand ambassadors, customer experience managers, and directors.

To address the burgeoning talent crisis, 60 per cent of employers surveyed in the logistics and sales industries expressed a willingness to raise wages in the upcoming year. This strategic move aims to attract new talent and retain existing skilled personnel in an intensely competitive job market.