Recruiting talent for logistics, forecasting & supply chain role

The sector

While overall hiring is still positive, Transport & Logistics roles show strong demand despite scarcity especially in operational and planning roles. We see growing openings in import/export, purchasing, demand planning — with a focus on supply chain analyst, logistics officer, planning and buyer roles. The average tenure in logistics and planning is just under 2 years, amplifying churn pressures in roles like warehouse manager, transportation coordinator. Approximately 31% of vacancies are temporary contracts, reflecting use of interim staffing to handle seasonal peaks and volatile.

Candidates with strong analytical, technical and digital skills (WMS, ERP, forecasting tools, sustainability analytics) are in highest demand. AI-driven forecasting, route optimization, digital twins, and green logistics modeling are quickly evolving—especially as climate and efficiency pressures rise.

Mirroring broader Belgian trends, supply chain roles are seeing emphasis on skills over formal degree, with employers increasingly valuing certifications, bootcamps, and demonstrable capabilities.

Of course, our experts in these roles have the technical & domain knowledge to be able to engage with candidates. We understand:

Core functions: procurement, inventory management, warehousing, distribution, production planning, manufacturing operations.
Supply chain specialisms: demand forecasting, supplier relationship management, import/export compliance, quality control.
Logistics models: just-in-time (JIT), vendor-managed inventory (VMI), lean manufacturing, reverse logistics.
Industry-specific processes: cold chain for pharma/food, automotive production cycles, e-commerce fulfilment.
Key tools & systems:
- ERP & supply chain platforms: SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Infor.
- WMS/TMS: Manhattan, Blue Yonder, OTM.
- Production & planning tools: APS (Advanced Planning & Scheduling), MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems).
- Analytics: Power BI, Tableau for supply chain performance dashboards.
- Metrics and KPIs:
  - Operational: on-time delivery (OTD), order accuracy, production yield, OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).
  - Financial: cost per unit, cost to serve, inventory turnover.
  - Sustainability: carbon footprint, waste reduction metrics, circular economy practices.

When assessing the various candidates, we focus on:

Evaluating process optimization experience—have they improved lead times, reduced waste, cut costs?
Checking technical skills: Lean Six Sigma, Kaizen, Total Quality Management.
Spotting soft skills: problem-solving, vendor negotiation, cross-functional coordination.
Assessing resilience & adaptability—especially in crisis supply chain scenarios.

We are able to source talent in this area by

Engaging with industry bodies: CIPS, APICS/ASCM, CSCMP.
Tapping into sector events: supply chain summits, manufacturing expos, logistics fairs.
Recruiting from competitors & suppliers—these candidates often know the market inside out.
Showcasing operational stability—serious professionals won’t join if the supply chain is constantly in chaos without executive backing.
Highlighting investment in tech & automation—modern logistics professionals want to work with cutting-edge systems.
Emphasizing career pathways—from plant management to regional supply leadership.

Another critical aspect is Cultural & Safety Sensitivity

Being aware that safety is non-negotiable in production and logistics environments.
Understanding that many of these teams work on-site in shift-based systems—work-life balance messaging matters.
Considering global and multicultural supply chains, with their diverse compliance and communication needs.