Finding the Right Professional is Key to Supply Chain Competitiveness

Recent findings by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Global Supply Chain Institute advisory board suggest that finding the right professional has never been more crucial.

According to a report issued today, the recruitment and development of talented supply chain managers is key to creating a long-term competitive advantage.

Senior supply chain executives from 21 leading global companies recently met in Atlanta for the board’s first face-to-face meeting to discuss key supply chain issues. Previous meetings were conducted virtually.
The executives agreed that, when hiring, they look for supply chain professionals with the following skill sets and competencies:

*Strong critical thinking and data analysis skills
*The ability to translate process improvements into the financial language of the executive suite, the boardroom and the balance sheet
*Six-sigma green belt training, which is highly valued
*An understanding of how to apply lean to the entire supply chain and use value stream mapping
*An ability to interact appropriately with customers

While they seek to hire people with these skills sets, often they must train them either through internal or university-based programs.

“Many supply chain managers don’t know how to speak the language of the financial community,” said Paul Trueax, vice president, North America customer service and logistics, for Colgate-Palmolive. “It’s important to know how to translate process improvements to the financial statements.”

In a feature for Logistics Management – SCMR’s sister publication, it was noted that supply chain professionals need to sharpen skills before entering workforce. Indeed the story said that the number of employers struggling to fill positions was at an all-time survey high despite an unemployment rate that has diminished only marginally during the last year.

SC
MR