Market overview
The labour market in 2009 has seen a drop in permanent employment, with most sectors reducing their headcount. This is particularly noticeable in the pharmaceutical sector which has seen significant merger and acquisition activity, and off-shoring of manufacturing. The food and beverage sector has been something of an exception, with stable employment, and approvals to replace existing positions.
Many organisations are looking to their staff to be flexible in their working hours - implementing a nine day fortnight and in extreme cases, a four day week. In addition we are seeing a significant increase in the number of part-time roles.
Latest trends
Michael Digby, Associate Director with the Supply Chain, Procurement & Operations Division of Kelly Executive says while the market overall is soft, there remain areas of jobs demand.
Core functional supply chain roles are still essential in most organisations, unless they have outsourced to a third party. Companies which rely on strong Sales & Operation Planning or Demand Planning teams are still looking to the market for talent if a role becomes available. In addition, Procurement teams have been thrown into the spotlight as organisations continue to look to reduce their ëspendí across raw materials and indirect goods and services.
Positions at risk include those that have been duplicated by M&A activity such as shared services and senior management roles. The same is true of companies that have outsourced their non-core business to third parties, either locally or offshore.
There has been a softening in the rate of permanent salary increase, with pay rates in most job categories levelling off. Most candidates accept that the opportunity to earn bonuses and, or incentives in 2009 will be greatly reduced. In addition there has been a decrease in contract rates in most job categories.
Positions in Demand
Positions and skills in demand include:
ï Supply chain planning
ï Demand / forecasting skills
ï Category management
Outlook
2009 looks to be a year of consolidation. Companies have been encouraged by the global economic downturn to review their operational costs and ësharpen their pencilsí. By doing this, they will reduce their overheads, and set themselves up for when the market turns. Confidence in the market has improved as the year has progressed, but organisations are still cautious.
Market Wrap – Supply Chain, Procurement & Operations
The labour market in 2009 has seen a drop in permanent employment, with most sectors reducing their headcount
