by Shazamme System User
•
23 Aug, 2024
Introduction The procurement and supply chain industry in Australia is navigating a dynamic job market characterised by evolving demands and emerging opportunities. In Sydney, a city central to many of the nation’s key industries, understanding these trends is crucial for both employers and job seekers. From the rise in technological integration to the focus on sustainability, several factors are influencing the landscape.  Demand for Skills Currently, in the Sydney job market, there is a strong demand for professionals with specialised skills in contract management, category management, and supply chain management particularly within IT, facilities management, and infrastructure. This demand is driven by rapid growth in IT investment, significant infrastructure projects including transport, utilities, and urban developments, and the increasing complexity of facilities management due to urban expansion, technology integration, and evolving regulatory requirements related to sustainability and energy efficiency. Candidates with over five years of experience in these areas are especially sought after. Additionally, there is a growing need for procurement specialists with expertise in risk management, assurance, and governance. These roles often require strong analytical and reporting skills, as well as the ability to interpret data and drive strategic decisions. Furthermore, strong interpersonal skills are crucial, as these professionals must effectively communicate insights and influence stakeholders to implement data-driven strategies. The healthcare, FMCG, mining, energy, education, and infrastructure sectors have seen consistent contractor engagement, due to the project-based nature of work. Many roles are tied to specific projects such as infrastructure development or IT upgrades which require specific specialised skills for a short period of time, making permanent employment less necessary. This trend is particularly evident in industries like infrastructure and energy where large-scale government funded projects require a temporary increase in workers. Moreover, some sectors like healthcare and education may also rely on contractors to address skill shortages or meet short term needs during peak periods. Specifically, there is a noticeable trend towards hiring professionals who can manage complex contracts and assess supplier performance effectively. Senior supply chain managers, particularly those with automation skills, remain in high demand, reflecting the industry’s shift towards more efficient and technology-driven operations. Impact of Technology Technology continues to reshape the procurement and supply chain landscape, with automation and data analytics playing pivotal roles. The integration of advanced technologies has led to a demand for professionals who can manage and optimize automated systems, streamline processes, and harness data for strategic decision-making. Candidates with a strong understanding of digital tools and platforms, as well as those who can adapt to the fast-paced technological changes, are increasingly valuable. A recent poll we conducted, revealed that 57% of industry professionals believe AI and automation will have the biggest impact on procurement and supply chain in the next five years. This highlights the critical need for candidates to upskill in these areas to stay competitive. The use of AI and machine learning in procurement processes is also gaining traction, particularly in areas such as supplier management and risk assessment. As companies seek to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the ability to implement and oversee these technologies is becoming a key differentiator for job seekers in the industry. Candidate Trends The job market for procurement and supply chain professionals is also being influenced by candidate preferences and challenges. Our recent poll revealed that the biggest challenge candidates face in their job search within procurement is finding relevant job openings, with 58% of respondents identifying this as their primary concern. This suggests that, despite the demand for specialised skills, the approach to advertising roles may be unintentionally discouraging potential candidates. When job postings list numerous specialist skills as essential rather than desirable, it can discourage qualified individuals from applying. Instead of the issue being a lack of available opportunities, it may come down to how the role is presented. It is crucial for employers to carefully distinguish between essential and desirable criteria to attract the most suitable talent. In light of this, it’s important for employers to clearly communicate the specific skills and experiences they are looking for, particularly in emerging areas such as sustainability and ethical sourcing. As 38% of professionals view sustainability initiatives as a major trend, roles related to sustainable sourcing and ethical procurement practices are likely to see increased interest from both employers and job seekers. Future Outlook Looking ahead, the procurement and supply chain job market is expected to continue evolving in response to technological advancements and global economic conditions. The demand for specialized skills, particularly in areas like automation, data analytics, and risk management, is likely to remain strong. Additionally, as sustainability becomes a growing concern, there may be an increased focus on roles related to sustainable sourcing and ethical procurement practices. Candidates can prepare for these changes by upskilling in areas such as digital literacy, data analysis, and sustainability. Continuous learning and staying abreast of industry trends will be essential for those looking to remain competitive in the job market. These are my findings within the procurement and supply chain job market as of August 2024. If you would like to discuss these insights further or have additional perspectives to share, please feel free to reach out and continue the conversation on 0410 261 832 or email anna@procurement-people.com.au .