Hays Logistics
January - March 2012
Hotspots
A higher requirement exists for Analysts and Continuous Improvement Engineers who can add immediate value to major organisations. In fact, the market across the whole of logistics, from transport and warehousing through to supply chain, is increasingly dominated by the major organisations, brands and businesses. These employers require individuals who can aid the strategic development of the business, which is driving the demand for Analysts and Improvement Engineers.
In addition to Analysts, warehousing and transport also needs Logistics Engineers as 3PL operations look to win business by increasing the service provided to customers.
Western Australia is particularly active from a logistics perspective. New contracts and tenders were awarded in November and December last year and skills shortages continue to hinder recruitment as both blue and white collar candidates are attracted to the resources sector. In most demand this quarter will be Fleet Controllers given the larger fleets in operation. From a forwarding and project perspective, operators at multiple levels including implants will be in demand.
Export and import operators are still highly sought after given the strong Australian dollar and increasing exports in response to the mining boom.
Overcoming skills shortages
Given the shortage of candidates with lean, six sigma and other continuous improvement methods experience, employers are offering sponsorship to suitable candidates.
Employers are also looking to maximise the productivity of their existing workforce by multi-skilling staff. Training and development is crucial and many organisations will up-skill candidates with the potential to take on more responsibility. This trend is evident in all areas of logistics.
The coming quarter
We expect an increase in permanent positions and long-term contracts in the project logistics space. We expect demand for high-level Warehouse Supervisors and project-experienced Freight Forwarding professionals. We also expect to see increased demand from 3PL customers as businesses look to re-tender the warehouse and distribution parts of their business while others outsource. Jobs are also being created in companies servicing the mining industries, while those working with manufacturing organisations are usually only replacing departing staff.
In Western Australia, the ongoing skills shortage is not likely to improve as major players within the sector drive project activity. This will remain a challenge for the local logistics market.
Executive recruitment
There is now an increase in mid to senior level recruitment for roles with base salaries up to $130,000. However positions above these areas rarely reach the market as employers know who they want in the role.
Employer trends
Employers are still very particular in their requirements when recruiting. This is driven by the perception that there is still an abundance of candidates and a lack of roles in the sector, when in reality quality candidates are in short supply and vacancies are only increasing. Strong candidates are often attracting multiple offers and will research the hiring managers, companies, career advancement opportunities and sustainability before committing to employers.
To reflect the demand for sought after expertise, employers are increasing salaries for the right people. Those organisations that cannot increase salaries are instead offering additional benefits to secure the right candidate, such as company vehicles or bonuses. Career progression and prospects are also increasingly highlighted and used as an intangible factor to entice talented individuals into an organisation. This also plays an important role in the retention of existing staff.
Given the shortage of Analysts and continuous improvement individuals, and based on past actions, we are likely to see sponsorship offered to suitable overseas candidates.
Candidate trends
While there are still a good number of candidates available in the market, both passive and immediately available, the overall quality of candidates is reducing. This is most notable for Fleet Controllers and in warehouse at the middle-management level.
