The recently announced merger between the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Institute of Operations Management (IOM) reflects rapid changes to roles in the supply chain, especially post-Brexit, according to recruitment specialist Jonathan Lee Recruitment.

Mark Bignell, supply chain expert explains: “This collaboration mirrors big changes we are seeing in the types of skills sets being demanded of supply chain professionals. It is a further demonstration of how commercial and technology drivers are evolving the supply chain, particularly in relation to the potential for it to deliver positive business transformation and improve performance. 

“It is great to see the recognition that successful supply chains are vital to commercial success and the increasing value that is being put on the individuals who can drive that growth. 

“Despite the current uncertainty around Brexit, now more than ever we must nurture the people who have that rare combination of skills. As we look to reconfigure our relationships with Europe and the world, supply chain experts with commercial savvy will be key to delivering the opportunities and minimising business risks in such a period of transformation.”

Jonathan Lee Recruitment has seen an increased focus on how roles are becoming more demanding and more diverse across logistics, materials planning, purchasing and commercial roles in manufacturing. There has been a marked growth in securing the supply chain leaders with strong business transformation skills that can support the rapid changes in manufacturing business as they deal with changes post Brexit.  
 
Chairman, Jonathan Lee comments: “Many businesses will need to adapt their operations in the wake of the referendum, ensuring they have the right people to steer decision making and the right skills to drive change through the business, whilst keeping teams, customer and supply chains on board.  We are already seeing a trend towards contract staffing and interim management solutions to help guide businesses through the transitional period of the coming months and even years. A planned approach can make all the difference to the impact that changes from Brexit can have now, and in the future.”