Up skilling key to procurement & supply chain professionals

A continued focus on reducing operating costs will have mixed consequences for procurement, supply chain and logistics professionals in 2012, according to the 13th edition of the Global Salary Survey by international recruitment consultancy Robert Walters.

Procurement is expected to be high on organisation's agendas, with strong procurement analysts and strategic category managers will be in high demand as they focus on reducing operating costs.

However, the need to tighten supply chains will also be of growing importance in 2012. Instead of creating more roles and increasing demand, this will result in professionals having to broaden their skills to coordinate end-to-end control to secure employment, even at junior levels.

The survey found that despite the anticipated increase in demand, professionals are expected to have the skills and broad knowledge to stay competitive.

Alastair Pennie, Manager of Procurement & Supply Chain said the results aren't necessarily negative. "Although at first glance this might seem like some procurement and supply chain candidates will struggle, in reality it's giving skilled professionals a chance to shine. With a new focus on this part of the business, good candidates should be able to demand higher salaries, with encouragement for other professionals to up skill, which will only further their careers. It will be a dynamic year in this sector."

Now in its 13th year, the Robert Walters' Global Salary Survey is the most comprehensive of its kind. Compiled by the company's dedicated research team and covering all 26 countries and disciplines in which Robert Walters specialises, the latest edition offers an overview of salaries and recruitment trends from 2011, as well as those expected in 2012.

For more information please contact Lillian Hafez on +61 2 8289 3237 or lillian.hafez@robertwalters.com.au

About Robert Walters
Robert Walters is one of the world's leading global recruitment consultancies, specialising in the placement of permanent, contract and temporary positions across all levels of seniority. Our teams of professional consultants are renowned for their professionalism, integrity and exceptional recruitment consultancy services. Using a flexible approach to recruitment, we are committed to matching client needs to candidate aspirations to create mutual benefit for both. In Australia we have offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Chatswood, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.