Logistics and Supply Chain Superpowers and Skills for Survival in the “New Normal” Globalized World

Abstract

Disruptions and rising costs in global supply chains due to COVID-19, climate change, and geopolitical tensions have led to supernormal profits, substantially more recognition of the importance of the sector and management functions associated with it, and a potential “golden age” for a career in logistics and supply chain management (LSCM). This article provides a general overview of the opportunities arising from global LSCM trends. Motivated by student views and comments, the authors have surveyed leading academics and senior practitioners globally across the key LSCM functions to obtain a comprehensive view on the future skills required to excel in a career in supply chain management. Their findings suggest a multitude of future-proof skills centred around technical (e.g., data analytics), soft (e.g., creativity) and cross-functional skills, which they then use to discuss implications for job profiles, graduates (i.e., learn to learn) and LSCM professionals. Given the variety and complexity of the identified skills and LSCM functions, in addition to a compounding LSCM talent shortage, the authors propose changes in LSCM offerings at universities and other tertiary education providers, with a focus on unlearning and life-long learning.