The world of work is changing, driven by consumer expectation, new working patterns and behaviours and the increased deployment of technology and real-time information.
The world of work is rapidly evolving, influenced by consumer expectations, new working patterns, and technological advancements. The new generation of consumers places a higher value than ever on corporate behavior and ethics. They also demand products and services on demand, facilitated by constant access to real-time information and the ability to place immediate orders.
Simultaneously, the nature of work has transformed. Supply chain disruptions from Brexit and Covid have led to adaptable practices like working from home and the four-day week. Supply chain teams are now more focused on risk and resilience, which have become top priorities in supply chain strategy.
This shift is impacting both supply chain activity and talent. Our future supply chain leaders and managers need new core skills:
Values and Value: Leaders should share the organisation’s commitment to both profit and ethical values. They need to focus not just on cost but also on diversity, environment, inclusion, fairness, and sustainability. They drive the supply chain with a passion for both value and values.
Analytical Skills: Leaders must embrace technology and data. They should drive productive data systems and processes, staying attuned to real-time data. Decision-making speed is crucial, impacting the organisation, the supply chain, and the customer.
Communication: Supply chain managers need to excel in communication. They must share their analyses effectively across the supply chain and organisation, seeking a common plan. In complex supply chains, clear messaging is essential. They simplify problems, identify causes, and propose solutions, becoming trusted partners within the organisation.
Team Integration: Managers must be integral parts of the broader company team. They should align with others on a common plan, working with colleagues and partners to meet customer expectations.
Adaptability: Leaders must accept and thrive on change. They should find time to mitigate risk, enhance resilience, and anticipate potential issues. This proactive approach helps them seek solutions to problems they haven’t yet encountered, showing strength and resolve in adversity.
How does you supply chain team perform against these skills and behaviours?
Our parent company Slater Austin, can help answer that question. Slater Austin offers a free talent review, which assesses the skills and behaviours of your supply chain teams. This is a great opportunity to benchmark your company. They also have a placement division which delivers great supply chain talent, on a permanent, interim or project management basis. Not forgetting, at Aspire, our apprenticeships and training packages can develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours for your whole team.
Looking to build the development plan of your supply chain teams? Contact us today.