Why Gen Z is Overlooking Supply Chain Careers — and How We Can Change That
Younger workers are hungry for purpose, and the supply chain holds the key. It’s time for the industry to step up and share its powerful story.
It’s been said that younger generations of employees really want meaningful work they can sink their teeth into. This means doing the kind of work that matters and leaves them with the feeling that they’re contributing to the greater good, taking part in something “bigger than themselves” and appreciated for their efforts.
If that’s the goal, then supply chain should be on their radar. The invisible force behind nearly everything we use, eat, wear, and rely on, supply chains are the kind of thing where if they break, the whole world feels it (this became glaringly obvious during the global pandemic). From ensuring critical medications reach hospitals to getting food on grocery store shelves, supply chain professionals play a vital role in keeping systems running and people supported.
So why are supply chain, logistics and transportation operations having such a hard time convincing recruits of any age to join them? The supply chain industry as a whole is currently facing a significant talent gap, according to Abe Eshkenazi, CEO of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). He says fixing the problem requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond just providing traditional educational and career paths.
“Attracting younger individuals requires awareness, perception, career paths, and mostly purpose because they want their work efforts to align with their values and expectations,” Eshkenazi explains. For starters, he says supply chain is due for a rebrand, and needs to be positioned as more “strategic and impactful” versus just centered on manufacturing and distribution.
“We really need to shift the narrative away from ‘trucks and warehouses’ and over to the technology and systems that run these operations; their global impacts; and the supply chain sustainability conversation,” says Eshkenazi. “Those are the things that really light up an individual’s interest.”
More than a Job
As the strategic importance of the supply chain grows, there’s a greater need to attract, engage, and retain the talent behind it. Tom Derry, CEO at Institute for Supply Management (ISM), tells companies to invest in their people and, conversely, make sure they understand your willingness to invest in them. This is a two-way conversation that sometimes falls by the wayside in busy supply chain and logistics operations, but employees need to know that you have their backs and their best interests in mind.
“Studies show that companies that provide training and development opportunities for their employees have better retention rates,” says Derry. “It’s all about showing employees you’re willing to invest in their growth.”
That could mean formal education, supporting employees as they pursue certifications and/or creating cross-functional opportunities within the organization. With the latter, companies can encourage teams to work across functions to understand what really drives cost and value, especially as supply chains face more pressure from tariffs and other external forces.
“Supply chain has never been more appreciated for its ability to deliver results for the company,” says Derry. “When supply chains don’t perform, it can be existential for companies.” That’s a powerful message for companies that are recruiting the next generation of talent. Show candidates how supply chain roles connect directly to purpose, impact, and strategy, and you’ll have a much better shot at getting them in the door (and keeping them there).
Source: SupplyChain247
