CSCMP Edge 2021: Young Professionals Want to Make a Difference via Supply Chain Careers

One of the hard lessons learned during the pandemic is how important the supply chain is to the smooth functioning of our economy. A new report from The 2021 Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) Young Professionals in Supply Chain Report, released this week at the annual CSCMP Edge conference in Atlanta, shows that younger supply chain professionals see the increasing impact their careers are making. The report, produced by Korn Ferry and presented by Penske Logistics, examines the sentiment of supply chain professionals aged 30 and younger.

This year’s study finds that 58% of young professionals surveyed stated they pursued a supply chain career due to its beneficial societal impact. Just 13% responded in this fashion in 2019 and the number was further reduced (10%) in 2017.

Among the report’s key findings:

• Among all respondents, 99% agreed being part of the supply chain is a quality career choice with 95% expressing excitement for their development track and training opportunities.
• Top reasons why these young professionals are remaining with their current employers: Development opportunities; and work environment culture/co-workers were both cited in 60% of answers. Also placing over the 50% mark was the category of salary and benefits.
• Approximately 88% of supply chain professionals identified their jobs as good, 80% felt it was better than most, and 77% deemed their work as enjoyable.
• How did respondents become interested in a supply chain career? The top reasons: The impact that it can have in business; the variety of opportunities; and the fast pace and challenges of keeping supply chains running on time.
• The ideal supply chain career for a young logistics practitioner involves an employer offering competitive pay, career advancement opportunities, an opportunity to be involved in strategy, work-life balance, and a strong, collaborative team environment.
• Approximately 44% of the respondents indicated a willingness to relocate to advance their careers.
• What are the main reasons why respondents might choose a different employer? The report noted that development opportunities was the top answer; followed by salary-benefits increases; finishing school or having graduated; and wanting more interesting type of work.
• The report offered insight into how the next generation of logistics leaders are searching for employment. The top answers were via social media; online job boards; directly on a company’s website; and via word-of-mouth through their professional peer networks.