Navigating the high seas of Singapore’s talent and supply chain

THE logistics and supply chain industry has seen deep and rapid waves of transformation in the last few decades. Global trade movements, supply chain disruptions, the e-commerce boom, and recent labour movements brought upon by Covid-19 have drastically changed how we operate. In the last few years alone, international supply chains have given way to an e-commerce-driven supply chain market that is influenced by rising domestic and cross-border express shipments.

The talent market also has seen much change and in Singapore, the hunt for talent has become more competitive. Last year, 6 in 10 employers in Singapore reported difficulty in hiring, especially in roles within operations and logistics. But the pandemic is not the only major hurdle in recent memory. During the global financial crisis in 2008-2009, amid the business downturn and job losses, many leaders including myself struggled to maintain employee motivation and engagement.

We emerged from that crisis with a renewed sense of perspective in how important it was to invest in our employees. Today, the guiding principles of respect and results – whereby we pursue outstanding results without compromising respect for our colleagues – has never been more relevant. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right leadership and commitment to our people, this investment pays off handsomely. Successful businesses are powered by motivated employees who, in turn, provide great service quality that will bring in loyal customers.