Planning

DSJ Global: Your Leading Partner for Supply Chain Planning Talent

DSJ Global is a leading talent partner delivering mid-senior end-to-end supply chain talent. We secure business-critical Planning professionals through permanent, contract, and multi-hire recruitment solutions.

Planning is a fundamental aspect of the supply chain that allows for smooth distribution of sales, lower costs, increased customer satisfaction, and precise inventory management. Our global supply chain specialists have exceeded the expectations of clients and candidates for 15 years by providing extensive knowledge, passion, and experience.

With the compound annual growth rate of supply chain management services expected to grow by 10.5 percent between now and 2028, the US is facing a high demand for qualified and specialized supply chain Planning professionals.

To ensure you don’t miss out on securing the right Planning professional for your business or becoming the next candidate to settle into a new role, DSJ Global will deliver a high-quality, trusted service that provides a competitive advantage for both sourcing talent and the best opportunities for professionals.

If you're a Planning professional looking for new career opportunities, please register your CV/resume.

If you're a client looking for the best Planning talent, please register your vacancy or request a call back.

Benefits of working with DSJ Global’s Planning team

At DSJ Global, our Planning team is dedicated to delivering innovative recruitment solutions and leveraging advanced technology for enhanced resilience. As the supply chain industry experiences a surge in demand for digital tools, automated processes, and sustainable practices, factors including talent gaps and the impact of COVID-19 are driving substantial growth.

When working with DSJ Global’s Planning team, you can expect to receive:

15 years of experience and professional knowledge in the supply chain Planning industry

Access to an exclusive global network of both active and passive Planning candidates

Guidance and advice from our global award-winning talent experts in the supply chain Planning industry

Take the first step in overcoming your talent needs by reaching out to our team. Complete our form, and let's discuss how DSJ Global can effectively partner with your organization to fulfill your hiring goals.

Looking to hire? Request a call back

Supply Chain Planning Jobs

At DSJ Global, we are at the forefront of the Planning evolution, connecting talented professionals with exciting opportunities in this dynamic sector. If you are ready to shape the future of supply chain Planning, browse our live roles at DSJ Global and take the next step in your career today.

Buyer

A highly respected Chemical manufacturing company of ours is currently on the search for a Buyer to join their ever growing Procurement team. This is a strategic and tactical role for the company, and are looking for someone experienced within SAP. This client specializes in the manufacturing of chemicals across multiple areas, with strong ability to grow within the company and learn across multiple areas of procurement. You will collaborate closely with suppliers, managers, and other team members to secure the timely delivery of quality goods. This role is on site in the Lake Charles LA area. Key Responsibilities: Handle PO's and purchasing with the procurement team Purchasing of Services and Materials, both direct and indirect Ensures the availability of materials and services responsible for Collaborate closely with vendors and suppliers Collaborate closely with the procurement team to ensure cost effectively Key Qualifications: Bachelors degree is required 4+ Years of procurement / buyer experience Experience within procurement from a manufacturing environment Plant experience is a plus Heavy SAP experience Relocation assistance is provided If this role aligns with your desires for your next career, please apply above!

Negotiable

Lake Charles

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Sr. Production Planner

Title: Senior Production Planner Summary: A leading Medical Device company is looking to bring on a Senior Production Planner to their team in the Chicago area. With an annual revenue of over $500M, this client manufactures multiple ENT devices and solutions for health care professionals across the world. In this role, you will be responsible for executing the forecast and production schedules. The Sr. Production Planner's Responsibilities: Maintain the materials plan and control schedule to support on-time delivery metrics Analyze customer forecasts for capacity and material availability Prepare reports on safety stock and delivery performance with the Operations and Manufacturing teams Interface daily with the Operations team to ensure the availability of the product Analyze OTD variances, root causes, cost reduction, and process improvements Coordinate with Procurement, Engineering, and Finance regarding scheduling requirements The Sr. Production Planners Qualifications: Bachelor in Business or related field 5+ years of experience in Planning or related field 5+ years of experience with ERP Systems and Excel Strong analytic and communication skills The Sr. Production Planners Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision benefits 401k Match Competitive PTO If you are interested in the Senior Production Planner position, then please don't hesitate to apply!

Negotiable

Wheeling

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Project Engineer

Project Engineer Greater Seattle, WA Area We are searching for a skilled Project Engineer to join a growing engineering team with an exciting Ship Building Company in the shipbuilding industry. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in ensuring project success, collaborating with technical partners, and adhering to regulatory guidelines. Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate closely with Production Supervisors and Project Managers to resolve build challenges during vessel assembly, erection, and launch. - Prepare technical documentation, including systems diagnostics, research, and design analysis reports. - Develop and create engineering designs and layouts for internal and client evaluation. - Provide expert advice on marine vessel development, construction, and installation. - Monitor project engineering schedules and troubleshoot unexpected issues to maintain project timelines. - Participate in project review meetings with key stakeholders. - Create structures that meet safety and performance standards in the marine environment. - Evaluate project bids and proposals to establish engineering objectives. - Coordinate with production supervisors and liaise with vendors and owner's representatives to address technical concerns. - Ensure regulatory approval of all project drawings and deliverables, offering support to the Quality Control department during inspections. - Review preliminary and contract-level design packages and specifications. - Determine project specifications through analysis of project plans, customer requirements, and technical considerations. Qualifications: - Proven experience in Marine Construction, with a background in the maritime sector, shipbuilding, or ship repair. - Bachelor's degree in engineering (Mechanical, Structural) or Naval Architecture. - Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a deadline-driven environment. - Excellent oral and written communication skills. - Capacity to collaborate effectively with production teams to resolve buildability and systems operation issues. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Microsoft Excel. - Knowledge of marine engineering principles, ship systems, ship repair, and construction techniques. - Organizational and time management skills. - Familiarity with quality assurance processes and regulatory requirements. - Willingness to work outdoors in a shipyard environment, using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Preferred Qualifications: - Experience in administering contracts with "Buy American" requirements. - Proficiency in project management software such as MS Project. - Familiarity with scheduling software applications. - Previous experience with software tools like Rhino, Navisworks, ShipConstructor, GHS, Draftsight, or AutoCAD.

US$110000 - US$125000 per year

Seattle

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Planner and Scheduler

A nation Leading Biopharmaceutical organizations is currently seeking a Facilities Planner and Scheduler to aid in the success of their growing team. This individual will have a focus on improving work force productivity and work quality by anticipating and eliminating potential delays through planning and coordination of labor, parts, and equipment access. Key Responsibilities: Plans, schedules, and procures materials for maintenance work performed in area of responsibility while maintaining departmental budget. Works with MRO stores, Engineer's and Management to ensure that spare parts are stocked at appropriate levels Manage forms for Facilities and Engineering for updates and reconciliation. Ensures correct parts and consumables are procured for job plans. Facilitates development of the weekly maintenance schedule in conjunction with appropriate maintenance, operations, and engineering personnel. Key Qualifications: 1 year of experience working in a Medical Device or Pharmaceutical company as a Maintenance Planner, Scheduler, Coordinator or related position is required. Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or related field is preferred Minimum of 1 year of experience using BLUE MOUNTAIN in a highly automated inventory system environment is required. Experience working in a regulatory environment (FDA, cGMP) and a good understanding of Facilities compliance is preferred.

Negotiable

Boca Raton

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Senior Manager Walmart Operations

We are looking for a strategic individual that is also willing to roll up their sleeves to execute tactically in order to exponentially expand business with our Walmart channel as our Sr. Operations Manager. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of the apparel supply chain within Walmart and/or Suppliers and be able to leverage that expertise to drive best practices and processes for working with Walmart. As the Sr. Operations Manager, you will oversee the lifecycle of all Walmart orders from PO processing to delivery while mitigating any issues that may arise during the process. This role will own compliance monitoring with the goal of reducing errors and cost and accelerating time to market by improving logistics, order fulfillment, demand planning, and general operations. Proven experience with Walmart business practices, roles, and information systems is a critical success factor, along with a working knowledge of "End to End" supply chain. Duties and Responsibilities * Act as SME (Subject Matter Expert) by overseeing the life cycle of all Walmart orders; from processing and reviewing orders to fulfillment, while managing replenishment expectations * Strategically plan and manage orders, logistics, warehouse, and transportation to Walmart Supply Chain Standards while mitigating and eliminating OTIF and SQEP chargebacks. * Generate status reports to manage inventory control by reviewing inventories for all DCs and ensuring the system is targeting accurate fulfillment * Utilize reporting systems (Retail Link, E2Open, Item 360, Blue Cherry, etc) to analyze inventory control by forecasting data, understanding supply, and order patterning. * Manage and collaborate with the warehouse operations personnel to ensure all labeling and palletization standards are met and in compliance. * Manage and collaborate with sales personnel ensuring product setup is accurate in Item 360. * Act as customer service/mitigation role between Walmart and client geared toward fixing system opportunities and creating solutions. * Understand Factory capacity and manage total lead time from factory order to US warehouse. * Ensure item creation * Provide Quote management * Inform parties of compliance programs and provide documentation as needed * Manage and ensure timelines are achieved * Provide strategic planning for new categories and coordinate with factories Key Qualifications: * 5+ years of experience working apparel in Supply Chain, Replenishment and/or Logistics for Walmart or a Supplier, required * Bachelor's degree in business administration: Logistics or Supply Chain strongly preferred * Proficient Retail Link skills utilizing integrated apps within the platform including, but not limited to, Item 360, Coman, GRS, Nova, SQEP, OTIF, etc. * Experience effectively leveraging ERP systems for reporting, Blue Cherry (ERP system) or SAP preferred * Ability to proficiently utilize Microsoft Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.) required * Self-starter with the ability to multitask with speed and accuracy while managing several responsibilities simultaneously * Excellent customer service skills with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships * Must be a team player with collaborative spirit and able to work cross functionally to identify issues and provide solutions * Ability to be resourceful and function effectively while developing best practices across the organization * Strong written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail and organizational skills

US$100000 - US$115000 per year

New York

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SAP Consultant (m/f/d) Supply Chain Planning

Salary: Competitive Company Summary: Our client, a leading FMCG company in the Food production and retail sector, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced SAP or Planning Expert to join their team in Hamburg. You will be responsible for implementing SAP to enhance and scale operations. You will play an integral role in leading this critical transformation project for the successful implementation of SAP. The SAP Inhouse Consultant will be responsible for Acting as first point of contact and subject matter expert in SAP planning projects, rollouts, continuous improvement tasks and daily support requests Working in the team of supply chain subject matter experts of SAP to ensure all supply chain planning process are executed in SAP systems. Working in close collaboration with the Global Supply Chain to define best practices, understanding the specifics of internal and external supply and business process. Implementing new process and functionalities in the regions, supporting the overall system capabilities Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project success. Implement change management strategies to facilitate user adoption and minimize disruption during SAP implementation. Creating, reviewing, posting and communicating the required training documents Executing, controlling and delivering self-paced and instructor-led trainings Contributing to the design of future supply chain systems and processes. The SAP Inhouse Consultant should have the following qualifications: Degree or equivalent qualification in supply chain, economics, management or other related disciplines Experience in SAP / ERP implementation or planning softwares Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities Strong problem solving and decision making capabilities Fluent English and German Ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with all stakeholders, at all levels of the organization If you are interested in the SAP Consultant role based in Hamburg, then please don't wait to apply.

Negotiable

Hamburg

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Senior Planner - Hybrid

A leading Chemical Manufacturing organization is looking to add a Senior Planner to their growing team! You will be responsible for leading Master Planning, Scheduling, Controlling, and Measuring Production Operations. This is a pivotal position, allowing you to work cross-functionally and aid in the success and growth plans of the company. You will need to be based in the South Houston, TX area. This role operates on a Hybrid Schedule. Key Responsibilities: Oversee all inventory management and supply planning processes Handle all Production Planning Movements through the Manufacturing Cycle Set Strategies to enhance S&OP, Forecasting, Demand and Supply Planning processes Develop/Drive KPIs to create a transparent and competitively advantaged supply chain Engage in cross-functional projects, providing exceptional Project Management insight Actively seek supply chain optimization opportunities & cost savings Lead plans to drive continuous improvement Qualifications: BA or BS degree in Supply Chain, Business, Logistics, Engineering, or related field required plus a minimum of 5 years Supply Chain & Logistics experience. Strong communication, reporting, and presentations skills SAP/ERP skills APICS CPIM certification or in process Experience with various modes of bulk transportation, including marine, rail and bulk liquid truck.

Negotiable

Angleton

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Regional Category Manager - Professional Services (m / f / d)

About Us: Our client is a leading global management consulting and professional services firm with a strong presence in the DACH region. They are currently seeking a dynamic and results-driven Regional Category Manager to join the procurement team and play a pivotal role in shaping supplier strategies in the Professional Services category. Role Overview: As the Regional Category Manager for Professional Services, you will be responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies that enhance supplier performance, reduce costs, and drive innovation. You will collaborate closely with key stakeholders across the DACH region to understand their needs, negotiate contracts, and drive supplier performance improvements. Key Responsibilities: Category Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive category strategy for Professional Services that aligns with business objectives and market trends. Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and manage supplier relationships to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and performance excellence. Negotiations: Lead contract negotiations and supplier agreements to secure favourable terms and conditions. Risk Management: Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with the category and suppliers. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and deliver solutions that meet their needs. Cost Optimization: Drive cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities for cost savings within the category. Innovation: Foster innovation within the category by exploring new suppliers and technologies. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree. Minimum of 3 years of experience in procurement or category management, with a focus on Professional Services. Strong negotiation and contract management skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Analytical mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions. Proficiency in English and German is a must. Experience working in a multinational organization is a plus.

Negotiable

Germany

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Produktionsplaner (m/f/d)

Derzeit arbeite ich mit einem erfolgreichen, internationale Automobilzulieferer zusammen. Dieser ist auf der Suche nach weiterer Unterstützung der Logistikabteilung am Standort bei Ulm. Die Position bietet tolle Weiterentwicklungsmöglichkeiten, Schulungsangebote, sowie spannende Tätigkeiten in einem global aufgestellten Unternehmen. Ihre Aufgaben sind unter anderem: Bestände kontrollieren und optimieren Bearbeitung der Kundenportale Pflege und Überwachung der SAP Stammdaten Ihr Profil: Erfahrung in der Automobilindustrie Gute Deutsch und Englischkenntnisse Flexibilität und Koordinationsfähigkeit

Negotiable

Ulm

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Production Planner

Our client in the Chemicals sector, who is currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced Production Planner to join their team in Switzerland. This is a permanent position with excellent growth opportunities and a chance to work with a dynamic and innovative team. Key Responsibilities: - Develop and maintain production schedules to ensure timely delivery of products - Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure production targets are met - Monitor inventory levels and ensure adequate supply of raw materials and finished goods - Analyze production data and identify areas for improvement - Develop and implement production plans to optimize efficiency and reduce costs - Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards - Manage and maintain relationships with suppliers and vendors Mandatory Skills: - Strong knowledge of Supply Chain and Production Planning/ Raw materials planning or Supply or Demand Planning - Experience with SAP or other ERP systems and Excel - Excellent communication and interpersonal skills - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Ability to work independently and as part of a team - Fluency in English and German Desirable Skills: - Experience working in the Chemicals sector - Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles - Six Sigma certification How to Apply: If you are interested in this opportunity, or any other potential roles that may be available to you, apply below for a confidential discussion.

Negotiable

Switzerland

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Head of Supply Chain

We have a current opportunity for a Head of Supply Chain for a leading manufacturing company based in Hong Kong. Lead and execute operational excellence initiatives to drive continuous improvement across the supply chain. Ensure the efficient management of the end-to-end supply chain process, while meeting cost performance metrics. Evaluate policies and processes to ensure alignment with business standards and exceed customer expectations. Provide oversight and strategic direction to various supply chain units, including logistics, planning, distribution, and inventory management. Foster collaboration with both internal supply chain teams and external vendors to optimize and streamline processes. Monitor global import and export channels closely, identifying opportunities for enhancement and proposing improvement strategies. About you: Minimum of 10 years of experience with E2E Supply Chain. Strong background in manufacturing operations, production management, supply chain logistics, and warehouse management. Proficient in import and export compliance regulations, as well as product classifications. Excellent communication skills to facilitate effective collaboration and interactions with team members and business partners. For further information about this position please apply.

Negotiable

Hong Kong

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Project Engineer

Position Overview: A leading ship building company in the greater New Orleans area with a massive backlog is seeking a Project Engineer to join their team! As a Project Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in managing and overseeing the engineering design aspects of projects. Reporting directly to the Director of Engineering, you'll collaborate with external engineering firms, Production, Program Managers, Customers, Estimating, and Sales teams to drive successful project outcomes. Key Responsibilities: - Actively participate in project kick-off meetings, ensuring alignment with schedules and strategies. - Develop and meticulously maintain project Document Logs and Requirement Matrices, ensuring accurate distribution of Design Documents. - Perform crucial field engineering tasks, including as-built surveys and interference resolution, as required. - Write, review, and refine system/equipment specifications, conducting thorough systems/equipment and vendor evaluations. - Prepare, revise, and review comprehensive technical manuals, engineering operating procedures, instructions, specifications, drawings, standards, and documentation for equipment and systems. - Lead design reviews and effectively manage subcontract and internal engineering activities. - Collaborate with project management and fellow project engineers to meet project requirements. - Provide invaluable support to the Production Craft, addressing technical challenges effectively. Qualifications: - A robust grasp of ship design principles, shipbuilding, and manufacturing operations. - Strong leadership and management acumen. - Excellent communication skills - Demonstrated adaptability, maintaining peak efficiency and professionalism in various situations. - Proficiency in logical reasoning to identify strengths, weaknesses, and alternative solutions to complex problems. - Knowledge of federal regulations (USCG), international rules (SOLAS), and classification society rules (ABS). Education & Experience: - A degree in Engineering or a related field is required - A solid background with 5 to 9 years of Engineering experience, or equivalent, is required. - Prior shipyard experience in new-build vessel construction, upgrades, conversions, or repairs. - Proficiency in technical writing and competence with Microsoft Office Tools and Software.

Negotiable

New Orleans

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Planning News & Insights

Procurement

The Push to Dominate the Battery Supply Chain

In an electrified age, batteries are more than just power sources for our devices and vehicles; they're the linchpin of modern technological advancement. From smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, the battery's role is pivotal. As we sprint towards a greener future, the intense race to master the battery supply chain, encompassing Supply Chain Logistics, Supply Chain Planning, and Supply Chain Procurement, has never been more prominent. Let's unravel this intricate web and explore its implications.Supply Chain Logistics: The Movement MaestroIn the intricate tapestry of battery production, Supply Chain Logistics stands out as the unsung maestro orchestrating a harmonious movement of materials, resources, and information. It's not just about getting from point A to B; it's the meticulous choreography of interconnected steps that ensure timely delivery, optimize storage, and minimize waste.Every electric vehicle battery, laden with precious materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, serves as a testament to the prowess of logistics. From the rugged mines to the sophisticated labs and then onto the manufacturing floors, logistics ensures that every component reaches its intended destination in optimal condition. It manages the challenges of diverse transportation modes, from ships crossing tumultuous seas to trucks navigating intricate road networks, ensuring the chain remains unbroken.The increasing demand for batteries also introduces the challenge of scale. As production numbers soar, logistics must continually adapt, scaling up operations without compromising efficiency or sustainability. This involves strategic warehousing, inventory management, and route optimization to reduce carbon footprints.The Art and Science of Supply Chain PlanningThe skyrocketing demand for batteries places a premium on astute Supply Chain Planning. It's not just about meeting today's needs but forecasting tomorrow's challenges and opportunities. With the help of data analytics and AI, manufacturers can preempt bottlenecks, ensure timely deliveries, and keep the production wheels turning efficiently.Procurement: The Strategic Sourcing GuruIn the vast landscape of battery production, the art of sourcing and securing materials is paramount. Here, Supply Chain Procurement emerges not just as a function but as a linchpin of strategic importance. It's akin to a master chess player, always several moves ahead, anticipating market shifts, geopolitical ramifications, and fluctuating demands.Securing materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel requires a blend of foresight and agility. Adept procurement teams build robust relationships with suppliers, ensuring a consistent supply even during market upheavals. Ethical considerations further complicate the procurement landscape. With concerns over mining practices in various regions, the onus is on procurement specialists to guarantee that materials are sourced responsibly, aligning with both company values and global sustainability standards.Cost-effectiveness remains a cornerstone. Strategic sourcing gurus employ a mix of negotiation skills, contract management expertise, and market analytics to ensure that materials are not only of the highest quality but also procured at the best possible price points. This balancing act between quality, ethics, cost, and future-readiness makes Supply Chain Procurement an indispensable pillar in the battery supply chain saga.Balancing Act: Environment and ProductionWhile diving deep into logistics, planning, and procurement, we mustn't lose sight of our environmental compass. The quest for battery dominance needs to be complemented by sustainable mining, innovative recycling solutions, and the pursuit of alternative battery technologies.Mastering the battery supply chain is like conducting an intricate symphony of Logistics, Planning, and Procurement, with each playing its part in harmony. As we navigate the challenges of the environment, economy, and geopolitics, expertise in these areas becomes paramount. If your organization is seeking talent or insights to enhance its battery supply chain orchestra, please request a callback today from DSJ Global.Looking to hire key Supply Chain Talent?Speak to a consultant

Supply-Chain

Interview & Hiring Guidance

5 essential tips for employers, hiring managers, and HR on the hiring process across the end-to-end supply chainThe interview process, from initial phone call screenings and psychometric testing, to face to face interviews with the hiring manager and onsite tours, can often be a long and laborious process. So it is imperative to keep an interview process streamlined and engaged, to ensure talent doesn’t drop out, and your organization, and yourself is represented best. Here are 5 vital top tips for employers to stick to when interviewing top talent. Be present Showing excitement to prospective candidates provides insights for them into the potential team culture and attitude. Asking them questions about themselves, on their interests, their lives, their careers, as opposed to only technical questions to vet their hard skills, goes a long way in connecting on a human level. Another way to connect is by sharing real life examples of the day to day, positive experiences about the role and team, and details about project work. These are important talking points candidates like to know, and while they understand an interview may be rigorous technically, maintaining the conversational, human aspect is important too. Being engaged may sound simple, but given how much of the interview process is over Zoom/VC/phone these days, it is easy to get distracted and check emails or open windows on your computer. Remaining attentive and interested will bring the best out of the interview process and provide a positive candidate experience. Also important is to be interesting yourself. Be in sell modeMany of the above points are indirect examples of selling your team and role. However, in a more overt way, providing exciting opportunities at present and for future career growth are always on candidates’ minds and knowing there is more to be excited about than just hands-on skills or what is in the job description on day one makes them buy into the role and organization more. As part of selling the role, explain why you took this position, and what you liked about the company and team. Be relatable to their circumstances and share with them why the position in your team, at your company, is the best move they can make.Another important aspect to highlight here is the culture. Maybe there is more to what makes the role great than just the daily tasks or responsibilities, such as company sports team, lunch clubs, charitable groups, or environmental initiatives. Highlight what else is enjoyable so that candidates are excited about this role, as well as the team and company, aside from the day to day. These days competition for top talent is so tight, that those cultural differences can distinguish you amongst the rest.Be positive Many of the above points translate to this aspect of hiring, but above all, being cordial, professional, and sharing timely feedback all contribute to a positive candidate experience. In some cases, the candidate may not be a good fit culturally, or for your position, but you should still offer them professionalism and positivity in the interview. Remember, they may have colleagues or a network of other experts that could be better suited for your role/team. You want them to have a positive experience to refer people to you, and maintain your company’s reputation in the market, as well as your own. It's also important to note that many candidates often have other processes in the mix, so if you give them any chances to doubt their experience, they could be more likely to go elsewhere. Be flexible If a professional isn’t the 100% right fit, still ask yourself if there is a place for them in the team or organization, especially if they bring something unique to the company. Keep an open mind when recruiting talent, and consider the future headcount. Potentially you can create a new role for an exceptional candidate, especially if you don’t want to lose someone good to a competitor. See the positives in a candidate’s skillset if they bring enough to the table, and find reasons to say yes, especially in this market. Outside of being flexible with the job description, can you also be flexible with the offer? Offering nuanced benefits, flexible working, and customizing offers to the individual joining can again make the difference between rejecting and accepting. Be decisive The market is still exceptionally hot, so it is vital hiring managers are mindful of how quick an interview process needs to be. “Keeping someone warm” is so important, but if you can’t commit to them you do risk them going in another direction. Therefore, be timely with your feedback, especially if it's positive, to keep the momentum up. If they are at the top of your mind, you should stay at the top of theirs. Try and push approvals quickly as well. This is often bureaucratic but affect whatever influence you can have on an interview or hiring process, and don’t allow things to slow down if you can control it.Finally, be competitive. Don’t allow back and forth negotiations to hinder a process or allow time for other processes to catch up. Put your best, most competitive offer forward so it entices them from the very start. To hire the best candidate for your open role, get in touch with DSJ Global today. As a specialist talent partner across the end-to-end supply chain, we have access to industry-leading talent around the world. Find the talent you need by submitting your vacancy, or request a call back below to elevate your hiring process with the right talent partner today.

Supply-Chain

The Impact of Flexible Working

Assessing the adoption of flexible working in the supply chain industrySince its introduction to the masses, flexible working has revolutionized the world of employment. As the demand for supply chain professionals continues to grow worldwide, strategies to facilitate flexible and remote working have become essential in attracting and retaining top-tier talent.For many, some degree of flexibility is essential to achieving a healthy work-life balance. This can in turn, result in a happier and more productive workforce, which benefits businesses. However, moving processes away from the office can also have a negative impact on company culture, as teams interact less, decreasing productivity. The ambiguity of the situation made us wonder: What is the real impact of flexible working? To answer this question, here at DSJ Global we engaged with top businesses to understand their flexible working strategy. Exploring the state of flexible working across the supply chain, we take a look at the following: How productivity and company culture has been impacted by hybrid and flexible working patterns What leaders see as the benefits and the challenges to flexible workingHow companies plan to use flexible working to attract and retain top talentOffering valuable insights to professionals seeking to understand the state of flexible working in supply chain, and for organizations reflecting on their flexible and working from home policies, both can take away a number of key considerations from this exclusive report. Download your copy of the report by completing the form below:

Supply-Chain

Finding a company culture that fits

For professionals seeking a new job, it’s often factors like salary, the day-to-day of the role itself, and the company brand that are central to the decision process. But each company has its own culture, customs, and values, even if they aren’t clearly defined, and they actually have more of an influence on your productivity, success, and even earnings than might be immediately clear.The world of work has undergone some remarkable transformation over the last few years, accelerated by the pandemic and the redefining of our values that it sparked - not to mention the major shift to a candidate-driven job market. As a result, experts have been given the opportunity to rethink what’s important to them in their day-to-day work life beyond the paycheck or job spec, and in large professional sectors in particular, such as technology and finance, this has positively influenced hiring companies’ approach to culture and its pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent, as well as quality of work. A company’s culture is essentially its personality, and while some may think of it as a buzzword that signifies lunch time yoga or wearing casual clothes to work, it plays a much greater role in how an employee shows up for work every day than any promotion, bonus, or salary could. Thankfully, businesses are catching on, and companies from trendy new start-ups to corporate powerhouses are adapting to the changing needs of professionals, investing more intentionally in developing cultures focused on collaboration, positivity, and flexibility, alongside added perks that are both useful and unusual, giving them an extra competitive edge. Business cultures are just as varied as those in societies, and there can be danger in taking a job in a company where there is a cultural disconnect between employer and employee. This can lead to issues down the line as the employee becomes unhappy and the employer is dissatisfied with attitude or performance. When interviewing for a new role, it is therefore imperative that you are conducting your own assessment of their culture and how you would fit into it. It’s one thing to ask broadly about what their culture is like, but it’s important to come prepared with more specific questions in order to get a deeper sense of what life as an employee there would really be like. This article will look at what to focus on when assessing the culture of a workplace you are interviewing for, and how to get a realistic impression of the culture by doing some digging yourself before accepting a job offer. Look beyond the free gym passWhen reading about a potential role at a new company, it’s important to look beyond the shiny, eye-catching perks that they’ll want to tell you all about. While a free gym pass, pizza Fridays, a pool table, and fabulous social events are alluring, (and rightfully so, as they are a sign of a company that wants to reward the hard work of its employees) these are surface level, and your experience in the company will depend much more on deeper cultural traits and values such as flexibility when you need it, a supportive team environment, recognition, and opportunities for growth. While some perks are inventive and exciting and can certainly enhance your experience, a cool office space will never compensate for a negative work environment, and your happiness is always more important than a brand name on your CV or a bottle of beer on a Friday. Remember that perks are part of company culture, but not the culture itself, and it is a company culture that helps businesses pull through times when money for perks isn’t on tap.What is truly important to you?You can work in a beautiful office with tastefully exposed brickwork and a designer chair, but none of this will matter if you hate your job. Approaching your job search having previously assessed what exactly you are seeking from your work life, what your non-negotiables are, and which elements of company culture will have the biggest impact on you, will help you to stay focused and land the role that’s right for you. Work out what truly motivates you and will support you to be the best version of yourself both professionally and personally, whether it’s flexible working options, a diverse workforce, or a tight-knit team, and see if this is provided by the company you are interviewing for. Consider which environments make you feel productive. How do you best work? Are you seeking more autonomy and the option to work from home? Then you may not be a fit for a company that is heavily focused on collaboration and team socialising.What is the company’s mission? Its values? Does it have a corporate social responsibility programme? A diverse workforce? Pinpoint those core values and see how they align with the messages companies are including on their employee value proposition and materials for professionals. These will inspire commitment and confidence in both your search and in the decision you land on.How to research a company culture as a professionalJust as you’ll want to get a feel for a neighbourhood before you buy a house, the same applies when you are searching for a new job. Your actual exposure to a company can be limited within the recruitment process, so we recommend using the following to research a company’s culture.Do some digging onlineHave a look at employee review sites such as Glassdoor for comments from inside the company on their culture. However, keep in mind that people are potentially more likely to leave a bad review than a good one. This may mean, however, that a company with a slew of great reviews could be a particularly positive sign.See if you have any connections within the company on LinkedIn and get the inside scoop from them. Again, don’t take these viewpoints as gospel, but rather as a building block and a way to get a general idea of employee experience. LinkedIn is also a way to find out the general tenure of people who work there as well as possibilities for progression and development. Good retention and development can be a sign of a positive company culture. Branch out during your interviewWhile an interview is a company’s chance to determine whether your skills and experience are right for the role, a large part of the decision will come down to character fit, which is essentially another way of determining how you would fit into their culture. It’s also a two-way street, of course, meaning it’s your opportunity to figure out if their culture is a fit for you, too. A great way to get the answers to this question that you need is to find an opportunity to speak candidly to your interviewer or others you meet within the business. These are likely the people you’ll be interacting with regularly and you’ll want to get a sense of how they communicate, both to you and to each other. Are they excited about the company? Do they seem to get along well? Do you have things in common beyond the professional? These are all factors that contribute to the overall culture and will impact your everyday experience.Be specificAsking a generic question will give you a generic answer, and hiring managers and other people who may be part of your interview process don’t want to hear the same old question interview after interview. Instead, show the company you’re interviewing for that you’re looking for more than to just show up, do the work, and get paid. You’re an individual with more to offer, and all parties will benefit from a good cultural fit. In addition, it’s not enough for you to take their word that they have a great company culture. Get into specifics and request examples of when company values and culture have led to success or excellent employee wellbeing. For example, say that you want to work somewhere where personal development is taken seriously, and then ask for an example where a personal development program has helped an employee achieve a promotion or a new qualification. Or if mental health support is important to you, ask about the ways in which the company offers this and whether it’s been well utilised. These stories and examples will give you a much better impression of how the culture works rather than memorised lines about remote working policies and employee engagement. And on top of that, you’ll get a much better feel for the people behind the job titles, which is half the battle when it comes to understanding where you fit into a company’s culture. No matter what position you find yourself in, use these tips to spot the work cultures that will — and will not — work for you. The company you ultimately choose should enable you to flourish rather than wear you (or your well-being) out.

Engineering

Phaidon International Findings

As a leading talent partner, we keep our finger on the pulse when it comes to hiring trends, and 2022 was no exception. It has never been more important for companies to understand what business-critical professionals are thinking when it comes to making career changes, what compensation they’re after, and what benefits they really desire.We surveyed our vast, global network of the best, in-demand professionals, and came up with a number of valuable insights that employers need to know about if they want to attract the best talent, and just as critically, keep them.Discover what is motivating top talent around the world right now with our highlights across End-to-End Supply Chain.Download your copy of this report by completing the form below:

Logistics

How to advance your career in supply chain

There’s no denying that the supply chain industry is growing at a rapid pace, as demand for products is at an all-time high thanks to significant advances in technology.With this in mind, if you are planning on advancing your career in this highly competitive landscape, it’s crucial that you understand how you can take the necessary steps to achieve your goals. We’ve created a helpful guide outlining how you can advance your career in supply chain.Always go above and beyondIn any line of work, you should always be committed to going above and beyond to reach your full potential. And a career in supply chain is no different. Take every opportunity to demonstrate to your employer that you will always go the extra mile to deliver more than what is expected of you. For example, focus on more than fulfilling your basic duties and instead demonstrate your dedication to your job by volunteering to lead a challenging project or manage a difficult customer. Seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and skill setA great way to advance your career in supply chain is to embrace every opportunity you are given to expand your knowledge and skill set. This will not only open the door to a whole host of new and exciting opportunities, but it will also demonstrate your commitment to your role and help you to fulfill your full potential. Ensuring that you remain in tune with the latest supply chain technologies and processes will also help you to stand out from your peers. Expanding your skill set still demonstrates your commitment to learning more about the supply chain industry – organizations love ambitious employees and this quality rarely goes unnoticed. Shout about your achievementsIf you want to advance in your career in supply chain, never be afraid to shout about your achievements.Always document your accomplishments and highlight what you have achieved at every opportunity. For example, save any testimonials that speak highly of the service you have provided as these are a great way to demonstrate that you have a proven track record for delivering an outstanding standard of service.Communicate with management The only way your employer is going to know that you want to accelerate your career is if you tell them. Communicating your goals with management will allow them to put a plan in place to help you to advance your career. Mentor programs are also a great way to help you to learn and grow, with the support of a colleague already working on the job you want to transition to. NetworkFinally, if you want to advance your career in supply chain, you should take every opportunity to network, even if that means exploring different divisions. Taking the time to put yourself out there will not only help you to expand your knowledge and reach but it’s also a great way to boost your confidence and improve your communication skills. How we can helpHere at DSJ, we secure business-critical talent across the entire end-to-end supply chain, including logistics. Founded in 2008, we provide permanent, contract, and multi-hire professional search solutions across planning, procurement, technical operations, engineering, supply chain leadership & logistics. We firmly believe that finding the right talent is the driving force behind business growth. If you’re looking for your next role in supply chain, get in touch or take a look at our live roles and apply for a job today.

Planning

Sustainability spotlight: an interview with Gwyneth Fries

In a world where everything is intimately connected, it’s important to understand the production flow of goods or services – the supply chain ecosystem in other words. But have you ever considered the environmental impact of global supply chains?Although supply chains might be brandished as the ‘weakest link’ for some organizations, with estimates pointing to them being 11.4 times higher than operational emissions, opportunity is certainly emerging on the horizon. We interviewed Gwyneth Fries, Expert Senior Manager at Bain & Company, who reveals how sustainability is having a rippling effect on the supply chain industry and the talent within this space.Q: Please could you tell us a little bit about yourself, your role, and day-to-day.I am an Expert Senior Manager at Bain & Company. My role is to provide outside expertise and be an internal expert for Bain & Company on corporate sustainability. I work on a number of projects helping organizations to decarbonize, kickstart strategies, launch new products, and create value to ultimately build a greener business.I have been working in sustainability and sustainable development for more than 10 years. I started my career at the World Bank, advising governments in Latin America on supply chain competitiveness for agricultural products. From here I witnessed a lot of waste, particularly food waste primarily from poor logistics and infrastructure, which sparked my interest in sustainability. I then moved to Singapore in 2013, working in corporate sustainability strategy and consulting advisory at a non-profit organization, Forum for the Future. Prior to joining Bain & Company, I was also managing sustainability globally for a warehousing and logistics company called Agility for 3 years, which involved everything from running the human rights program to engaging with customers on how to reduce the emissions footprint of their shipments.There is a huge demand for professionals with an ESG and sustainability background as individual organizations look to build out their sustainability teams. Bain & Company has internal ESG expertise by hiring people like me to match their world-class consulting and build a stronger, well-rounded team.Q: As a sustainable supply chain and logistics expert, how have you seen the industry adapt and improve to become more environmentally conscious?When we analyze supply chain sustainability, the primary focus is reducing emissions and decarbonization - that’s where the real crisis is. According to our research in the Southeast Asia’s Green Economy 2021 Report: Opportunities on the Road to Net Zero, the region faces a ~3-4Gt gap to 1.5°C aligned emissions levels in 2030 based on latest NDCs. The good thing about logistics is that more efficient logistics means less fuel, so there is a lot of opportunities for efficiency improvements that save on cost and carbon.From the perspective of private companies, the focus has shifted from just efficiency to low-carbon solutions. Previously, only the biggest logistics companies would think about this issue and prioritize efficiency – businesses were not concerned with alternative fuels, electrification, or buying offsets. Maersk has been leading the charge, encouraging the shipping industry to adopt carbon targets and investment in alternative fuels. Recently, we’ve seen a lot of companies adopting an internal price on carbon, exploring shipments, using alternative fuels, working across the industry with suppliers, and couriers working with shippers and their customers to trial ‘green lanes’.In order to build change at the industry level, we need collaboration. There are some interesting collaborations around sustainable aviation fuels, and in order to do these collaborations, you need an entirely different type of skillset. It’s not that this wasn’t tried before, but it has been long and slow – without clear international momentum and accepting that we have a climate crisis, there hasn’t been any urgency to do anything. Now that there’s an urgency, competitors are working together, and shippers are working alongside couriers. Many are thinking about moving beyond the core business, and to do this, skills and expertise will be required to determine what’s the right type of alternative fuels, electric or hybrid solution, or to invest not only in your own supply chain but in a new innovation (hybrid trucks or new companies).In a nutshell, 5 years ago sustainability was about cost-efficiency and reducing fuel usage in supply chains. Today, it’s still about just that, but companies are looking at alternative fuels within the supply chain and beyond, acquiring start-ups, and working collaboratively to accelerate the transition to low carbon fuels.Q: What specific skillsets are businesses looking for?There are a few different types of skillsets, which is where businesses might need to think more carefully. Many businesses hire one sustainability or ESG professional, but this person can’t do everything. Firstly, experts on carbon accounting and reporting are a necessity in the market. Companies have now recognized that they must do this because there is no business or future if you don’t manage sustainability perceptibly going forward. But the individual that is calculating your carbon footprint isn’t the one who knows the new type of alternative fuel that will work best for your business. Engineers with technical expertise in low carbon fuels, solar energy, or building efficiency are also important.Additionally, collaborative skillsets are imperative. The only way to make progress is together, across multi-disciplines. We all need the industry to shift into a different way of thinking, and through this collaboration, we can build transparency and trust. This is a completely different kind of individual from the one that does your carbon accounting and the one that advises you on which innovations to pursue for R&D. You need people that can think strategically about sustainability and understand the context overall.Q: Every business needs to be looking at securing professionals with deep sustainability expertise. Are there enough experts to go around?I don’t think there is yet. The issue is typically common in different waves of business innovation. There weren’t graduate programs in climate change and sustainability until recently, so the professionals with sustainable fluency tend to be younger. These individuals haven’t gained the deep industry experience and credibility yet, and have not reached senior leadership roles where the real change happens. My guess is that sustainability in business is following a similar trajectory as digital did before it. Whatever the age, we need people with a vision of a sustainable, low-carbon future for the company to be in the boardroom.Q: What is one small thing you’d recommend or a piece of guidance to businesses, perhaps who have started their journey on the supply chain, and they need to get going? My number one tip is that sustainability needs to come as a mandate from the C-suite level. CO2 KPI targets are just as important as revenue KPIs. The mistake that several companies make is to hire a young smart professional, for example, to solve these issues. However, where they fall short is not giving that individual the authority they need or failing to involve them in business decisions. I have known many sustainability managers, and it’s common to see those individuals feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and unsupported; they often suffer from quick burnout.Companies have a duty to their shareholders. Today, sustainability is part of that duty to shareholders. It needs to be strategic – it’s not enough to have a separate sustainability and business strategy, the two need to be fully integrated. This will create the right landscape in which to hire the right people and understand what the right skills are. If you don’t work hard to hire the right people and fail to understand the magnitude of the transformation needed, it simply won’t work out.After hiring a professional, if a business does not support their purpose, then they will not stick around.If you’re interested in having a confidential discussion with Gwyneth Fries, or the team at Bain & Company, please feel free to reach out via: Bain & Company Global Sustainability Innovation Center gsic@bain.com.Looking to learn more about the sustainability metrics of supply chains? Download our comprehensive report, The Case for Sustainability Practice, for a deep dive into sustainable practices as well as the unique perspectives from sector professionals.

Logistics

What lies ahead for the international supply chain industry?

The international supply chain has undergone huge changes over the past few years. There have been moments of challenge, opportunities for development, and situations that have exposed breaks and fractures right along the line. In our role as a supply chain recruiter, we’ve seen businesses scramble to adapt to shifting conditions - with firms upping the ante on their recruitment efforts to build resilient teams and cope with seismic change. But, as we start to emerge from the impacts of the global pandemic, what lies ahead for the international supply chain industry and the people within it? Supply chain disruptions have become public knowledge. Before the recent supply chain crisis, most people who weren’t in the industry knew very little about the international supply chain. However, today - thanks to media coverage - there is a lot more understanding of it. For many consumers, this quest for greater knowledge has often been the result of trying to find out why they don’t have access to preferred goods or products. Transparency is a priority. Partly due to the increased focus on the supply chain, and also because of the problems that have been revealed within many networks during the crisis, transparency is being prioritized. CEOs, consumers, and investors have all been shocked by the fragility of supply chains in many areas and this has led to a surge of transparency-focused change. In the future, this approach will become the norm and all stakeholders will expect transparency, as opposed to asking for it. China has a bigger role on the world stage. China may have started out as a low-cost manufacturer but today it has moved from being a key seller to an impressive buyer, and competitor too. China is going to continue to have a big influence on the international supply chain industry in the years to come, expanding beyond out-of-date perceptions of its potential to be an even bigger player on the world stage. Digitization on a much bigger scale. Like many sectors, businesses within the supply chain are currently going through a wave of digitization - and this looks set to accelerate in the years to come. As a supply chain recruiter, we’ve seen an abundance of opportunities arise in digital skill sets and jobs that support organizations that leverage intelligent supply chains using technology. There are many advantages to doing this, not least in terms of transparency and being able to gain real-time insights on which to base better business decisions.Automation across the board. Greater digitization will also pave the way for the use of more automation across the industry in the coming years. There are many ways in which automation has the potential to make a difference, whether that's with respect to speeding up processes by automatically generating documents or automatically sharing information for the purposes of collaboration or analytics. As a supply chain recruiter, we’ve helped many organizations, and individuals, to overcome challenges in the past few years. Looking ahead to the future, these are some of the key factors signaling what lies ahead for the international supply chain industry. Request a call back from one of our specialist recruiters if you need to get the talent in place to help overcome some of the key industry challenges.