Supply Chain Talent Insights Report

Where Australia's supply chain talent market is heading and what it means for you

In a year defined by transformation, cost pressure and rapid digital acceleration, hiring the right supply chain talent isn’t just a challenge, it’s a competitive advantage. With demand booming across planning, logistics and inventory, employers are searching for professionals who can sharpen forecasts, integrate systems and drive commercial value.

And automation? It’s no longer on the horizon, it’s here. From AI-driven planning to warehouse robotics, business are actively searching for tech-literate talent to lead digital transformation. Salary alone won’t win the race for talent. Today’s professionals want meaning, flexibility and visible leadership. EVP now matters as much as the role itself.

Whether you’re leading a transformation, building high-performing teams or exploring your next career move, this market & talent insights report is built to inform your next step.

Based on thousands of conversations with clients and candidates, real-time placement data, and market activity across Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, the report offers a clear view of what’s driving workforce planning in 2025.

Understand the key drivers influencing the current job market

Gain insights into the most sought-after skills and roles in demand

Get detailed salary benchmarks to ensure you remain competitive

Discover opportunities to enhance your recruitment strategy

Planning

Workforce planning and inventory optimisation are top priorities as businesses balance cost control with service continuity in a volatile market. Employers are seeking planners who can maximise ERP systems, lead cross-functional planning and drive performance through data-led decisions.

Two men in a warehouse both with helmets on

Logistics

Logistics is shifting from reactive problem-solving to proactive network optimisation, with teams under pressure to boost service, cut costs, and build supply chain resilience.Employers want hands-on leaders who can drive tech-led improvements and streamline operations.

Automation

Automation is now a top priority, with businesses investing in tech to cut labour costs, boost accuracy, and reduce risk. As adoption grows, demand is rising for professionals to understand tools like WMS, ERP, and SCADA, but can also lead change and deliver results in complex supply chain environments.

Contracting as a strategic solution across the industry

We have seen contracting become a vital part of workforce strategy in Supply Chain, which reflects the need for flexibility and speed in an uncertain environment.

As demand for contractors continues to rise, it’s the quality of the network and the ability to connect with proven, engaged supply chain professionals at speed that makes the difference.

Supply Chain teams are under pressure to deliver, but many are running lean. Contracting gives them the breathing room to stabilise, maintain performance, and move transformation forward while they find the right long-term hires.

Tiernan O'Brien
Consultant | Supply Chain

A clear & compelling EVP

Businesses that are proactive about their employer brand, invest in their people, and adapt quickly to new expectations are the ones attracting the talent others struggle to reach.

Retaining top talent- especially in today’s climate - demands more than salary and surface-level perks. High-performing professionals are staying where they can see a pathway to growth, feel valued for their contribution, and trust the leadership to prioritise both wellbeing and progression.

A robust recruitment process

In a market where demand for the same talent is high, providing a positive experience during the recruitment and onboarding process is essential to maintaining a strong employer brand.

Partnering with a recruitment company can help as we have access to a large database of passive and active candidates and provide a single point of contact during the recruitment process.

Receive strategic advice on structure, roles and salaries

Remuneration pressures persist so understanding current salary benchmarks is essential for attracting and retaining top talent.

Our report includes detailed salary data across various roles within the Supply Chain function.

Available contractors to meet your needs

Contractors provide flexibility, reduce long-term commitment, and can be a strategic way to fill immediate gaps.

Many of our clients are embracing contractors as a strategic talent solution to flex up and down their teams for project-based work or to access in-demand skills.

Contact our Contracting team for more info.