In a notable development within the UK job market, there has been a 48% increase in supply chain vacancies across the energy and utilities sector so far in 2024. This upsurge is detailed in the latest Hiring Trends Report from specialist recruitment firm Robert Walters.
Key Findings:
Surge in Vacancies: A national increase of 48% in supply chain roles, particularly marked in energies and utilities.
Regional Variations: London shows a promising rise in procurement vacancies by 16.5%. However, other regions such as the North (-10.6%), Midlands (-4%), and the South (-3.14%) have experienced declines.
Renewable Energy Sector Boom: There has been an exceptional rise in demand for procurement (+301%) and supply chain management (+255%) within renewable energy services.
Sustainability Skills: Professionals with sustainability skills in the supply chain have seen a 17% increase in vacancies nationwide.
Neil Morgan, Associate Director at Robert Walters, commented on the findings: “The substantial role of efficient supply chains in supporting global energy transition is becoming increasingly vital. With mounting climate concerns and stricter government regulations on business sustainability, the demand for skilled supply chain and procurement professionals is experiencing significant growth.”
Capital Hotspot and Regional Drops:
While procurement vacancies in London have risen significantly, helping to offset the regional drops, the overall national picture remains robust. Energy and utilities sectors in London have notably seen a 102% increase in vacancy volumes compared to the previous year.
Mike Stevens, Senior Manager in Supply Chain and Procurement at Robert Walters (London & South East), stated: “The growth in London provides a positive outlook for the remainder of the year. Despite regional decreases, largely due to employers retaining talent amidst economic uncertainty, we anticipate a market correction in the latter half of the year.”
Rises in Renewables:
The push towards renewable energies has been identified as a critical driver for the increased vacancies in this sector. Companies such as Apple Inc. have made significant commitments to using 100% renewable energy by 2030 and are at the forefront of initiatives like the ‘Clean Energy Procurement Academy’ to promote large-scale supply chain decarbonisation.
Sustainability Pressures:
Data from Udemy indicates a 29% increase in enrolment for supply chain courses, with sustainability remaining a key skill area. Cities like Glasgow, Manchester, and Birmingham are seeing significant demand for professionals equipped with these capabilities.
AI and Automation Advances:
With 82% of CEOs in supply chain-intensive industries planning increased investment in digital technologies, skills such as warehouse automation, drone technology, AI, and digital strategy are increasingly in demand. This trend underscores the need for supply chain professionals to adapt and upskill to remain competitive.
“Supply chain and procurement sectors are not only critical to operational success but are also undergoing rapid evolution. It’s crucial for professionals in this field to continuously enhance their capabilities in digital technology, sustainability, and strategic business skills to stay relevant and attractive in a dynamic market,” concluded Neil Morgan.
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