Workforce flexibility, employee wellbeing, and the rise of technology dominated talent topics last year and continues to be a focal point for 2021. There is a discussion concerning talent mobility that, in many ways, may have been swept under the carpet on the back of the global health crisis. This raises the question, has the pandemic halted the movement of talent through the supply chain sector? Let’s take a deep dive to uncover any emerging patterns or notable motivations of supply chain professionals, that is, are they still looking for a sense of direction in the form of relocation?
Last year, we launched the DSJ Global Job Confidence Index Report. It gathered critical views and data on supply chain professionals across the globe, with an in-depth examination of their confidence in the current labour market.
The 2020 survey engaged with over 650 experienced supply chain career professionals in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Respondents from the Asia Pacific had a relatively bright outlook, with 44% claiming they feel positive or very positive about the 2020 job market. More than ever, the need for procurement and supply chain talent seemingly increased with Asia Pacific’s central role.
Our teams from Hong Kong, London, to San Francisco have all experienced different national-wide lockdowns, travel restrictions, and major disruptions last year. On the face of it, some would have presumed that the global pandemic paused international relocations, however, it couldn’t prevent the movement of people. Perhaps the pandemic enhanced the allure of talent to move away from cities and relocate to the suburbs.
While working from home may not have been an option for every role, the remote working experiment fundamentally changed the world of work; many re-evaluated their options and considered, or even explored new possibilities of where to work and where to live. Global supply chains had to adapt in the face of the pandemic, but with this evolving market and changing sentiment of talent, what can be said for this year?
Relocation: Career Aspirations of 2021
In April, we asked our global network of supply chain professionals about relocation, and from 2,443 respondents, a little over half (53%) expressed a willingness to relocate for work this year. The response yielded some interesting insights, notably with the evident shift in employee motivations and expectations for the future.
Perhaps this year’s survey results highlight an appetite amongst employees to stay put as we begin to emerge out of the pandemic. In some cases, the findings might point towards a newfound reluctance to move and pursue professional endeavours during this time; an outcome that could be driven by prioritising job security.
Talent Market: A Cloud of Uncertainty?
It’s possible that the legacy of the global pandemic could change the complexities of the talent space and their desire to relocate. Recently, we are seeing Vietnam overtaking China as the largest exporter to the United States. Additionally, 55% of senior manufacturing executives in Australia are planning to bring manufacturing operations back to Australia by 2023. There could be an oncoming potential talent war on procurement and supply chain sectors between APAC countries. Enterprise leaders will benefit in better understanding employee motivations, retention factors, and carving out the market to engage with business-critical talent before the competition.
Are you considering taking the leap and relocating for work? Join the conversation and take part in this year’s Job Confidence Index Report 2021. Our annual Job Confidence Index Report measures the pulse of confidence in the supply chain industry. Have a say about the key themes driving the future of work, the rapidly changing economy, and your general confidence in the supply chain job market.
