As we rush to digitize our supply chains, are we neglecting the human element that makes these systems truly powerful?
In a Forbes article written earlier this year, Ryan Craig sounded an alarm that should resonate with every leader in our industry: “The Supply Chain Of Supply Chain Talent Is Broken.” As visionaries in this space, it’s a wake-up call we can’t afford to ignore.
The magnitude of this crisis is staggering. Craig cites a survey from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, revealing that “64% of companies are experiencing a supply chain talent gap.” This isn’t just a minor hiccup in HR—it’s a fundamental threat to the very innovations we’re banking on to revolutionize our industry.
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Picture this all-too-familiar scenario: You’ve just implemented a state-of-the-art procurement platform, one that promises to streamline operations, slash costs, and provide unprecedented visibility into your supply network. Months go by, and the revolutionary results you anticipated remain elusive. Why? The answer lies not in the technology, but in the people meant to wield it.
Matt Stewart, CEO of RiseNow, a management consulting firm focused on procurement and supply chain services, offers a sobering perspective:
“You can work with the best services firm ever: they’ll help you put in the right tech, the right processes, and everything can be configured and implemented correctly, with full executive buy-in. But then the talent who ran the project gets a promotion, or leaves for more money elsewhere. The consulting team who built everything for you runs off to their next project, and the slow degradation of process, adoption, and usability begins.”
This talent gap is widening at an alarming rate. We’re facing a critical shortage of professionals who can seamlessly blend technical expertise with strategic insight—individuals who grasp both the complexities of the supply chain and the nuances of relationship management. It’s more than an inconvenience; it’s actively undermining the substantial investments we’re making in digital transformation.
The crux of the matter is clear: even the most advanced technology is only as effective as the people using it.
Why a Holistic Approach is Non-Negotiable
Craig’s article underscores what I’ve long believed: we need to shift our focus from a tech-first mindset to a human-centered approach. As he notes, “the tech won’t stand on its own to get businesses the outcomes they need. It needs people.”
True supply chain resilience comes from a holistic strategy that weaves together:
- Cutting-edge technology
- Streamlined processes
- Most importantly, empowered individuals
It’s about creating an ecosystem where your team doesn’t just use the technology—they innovate with it. Where they don’t just follow processes—they improve them. This is where the magic happens, where real evolution takes root.
The Path Forward: Cultivating Supply Chain Talent
With this holistic approach in mind, how do we bridge the talent gap? It starts with visionary leadership. Forward-thinking leaders recognize their power—and responsibility—to foster environments where supply chain professionals can thrive.
Craig’s article highlights this crucial point by quoting Stewart, who emphasizes:
“We must focus on culture, family, type of work and meaningfulness, opportunities for growth, education, environmental impact, and compensation/incentive programs to attract and retain quality talent. Understanding these next-generation motivators is key to building and keeping a workforce that is motivated and proud of what they do.”
This aligns perfectly with what I believe. To cultivate supply chain talent effectively, we need a two-pronged approach that addresses both retention and recruitment:
Retention Strategies:
- Invest in continuous learning and development
- Foster a culture of innovation and calculated risk-taking
- Create clear career paths for advancement
- Offer competitive and fair compensation packages
- Recognize and reward contributions and achievements
Recruitment Initiatives:
- Develop partnerships with educational institutions to create supply chain-focused programs
- Offer internships and apprenticeships to attract young talent
- Highlight the strategic importance and global impact of supply chain roles
- Showcase opportunities for meaningful work that aligns with personal values
- Emphasize your commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance
Additionally, for both current and prospective employees:
- Ensure safe and comfortable working conditions, especially in warehouse and logistics settings
- Provide transparency in decision-making processes that affect employees
- Support employee autonomy and trust in their expertise
In the intricate network of global supply chains, your most valuable asset isn’t a platform or a process—it’s your people. The supply chain leaders who will excel in this new era aren’t just tech adopters—they’re talent cultivators. They understand that the key to maximizing their digital investments lies in the hands of their team.
It’s time to redefine supply chain leadership. Envision a workplace where technology and human potential harmonize to drive unprecedented innovation and adaptability. This isn’t just about managing a supply chain—it’s about securing your organization’s future.
Seeking a partner who can chart the course for your organizational evolution and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you to see it through? Reach out, and let’s explore how we can unlock your company’s true potential: leigh@glassballconsulting.com
