Over the past three years, many professionals in supply chain and procurement have noticed a shift: job requirements at multinational firms are becoming increasingly specific.
“Not long ago, submitting a CV would quickly lead to a call from a recruiter. Now, there is often no feedback,” shared one procurement manager with over a decade of experience. Planning a career move after the New Year, he sent out more than ten applications—yet interview invitations were far fewer than before.
He's not alone. Many mid-to-senior specialists in supply chain and procurement are experiencing the same trend.
From FMCG giants to industrial manufacturers, from regional headquarters to business hubs in major cities, companies are placing greater emphasis on strategic workforce planning. Recruitment strategies have evolved, becoming more refined and forward-looking. Where opportunities once came knocking, interviews today are largely reserved for roles that align closely with a candidate's experience and skill set.
This isn't about individual capability—it's about a market that's changing and hiring requirements that are becoming more specific.
As hiring strategies evolve, alternative career paths beyond traditional permanent roles are attracting greater interest. Contract roles are increasingly on the radar—especially for professionals looking to gain experience with global organisations, keep their CV competitive, or explore new directions for growth.
Why are multinationals companies diversifying their hiring strategies?
In recent years, hiring activity for permanent roles at multinational companies has changed, driven by several broader market shifts rather than a decline in demand for talent. Global supply chains are being restructured, with certain functions moving to emerging markets, leading to adjustments in local roles distribution.
At the same time, strong growth from local companies — many of which now offer competitive compensation and global career pathways — has diversified where opportunities sit. Digitalisation and automation has also changed role requirements, with companies increasingly seeking professionals who combine strategic thinking with strong data analytics skills.
Finally, a greater focus on efficiency has encouraged some organisations to use flexible staffing models for project-based needs. This trend enables professionals to gain exposure, build expertise, and stay ahead in a changing market.
What does this mean for mid-to-senior supply chain and procurement professionals?
Professionals are navigating a more dynamic market, where permanent roles can be more competitive and expectations continue to evolve. Local companies offer new opportunities but may require adjustment to different working styles. As companies sharpen their focus on cost efficiency, workforce strategies are evolving. Experienced professionals' ability to leverage strengths and react proactively to change is becoming a key factor in hiring market.
In other words, relying solely on multinational experience and years of expertise is no longer a guaranteed path to securing a higher-paying role. Today's market values adaptability and a diverse skill set, which means permanent positions and traditional career paths now demand even stronger technical skills.
At the same time, talent strategies are becoming more varied. Opportunities beyond permanent roles—such as project-based assignments—are on the rise. This shift opens up fresh avenues and development for professionals willing to broaden their experience and embrace new challenges.
Contract roles: the underrated career springboard
When the market shifts, many professionals instinctively think, “I'll wait for the next permanent role.” But waiting maybe mean a longer gap—and potentially missing out on new opportunities.
Instead of staying, it's worth asking: could a contract role be the next stepping stone?
In fact, more and more multinationals are turning to contract staffing to meet talent needs in supply chain and procurement. According to internal data from Robert Half, demand for such roles has grown by around 30% over the past two years, with the strongest growth in areas such as:
Digital Supply Chain
Supply Chain Planning
Indirect Procurement
Contract positions aren't simply about plugging short-term gaps—they can offer the chance to work on core projects.
Take the experience of a supply chain planning manager who recently joined a global retail company on a temporary basis:
"At first, I was hesitant about taking a temp role, worried it might lack stability. But once I got involved, I realised the work was far more diverse than I expected. I learned a lot, and the compensation wasn' t far off a permanent position. Rather than waiting for an uncertain opportunity, I chose this route to keep my CV active and, meanwhile, enhance my professional value."
Such stories are becoming increasingly common. Professionals are embracing a more proactive and flexible career path.
Are contract roles worth considering?
If you're weighing up whether to take on a contract role, it helps to look at both the advantages and practical considerations.
Advantages:
Faster onboarding—ideal if you want to start work quickly
Keeping your CV active and avoids long career gaps
Offering hands-on experience across different companies and industries
Leading to a permanent position in some cases
Providing greater flexibility in work arrangements
Points to consider:
Typically shorter-term, usually six to twelve months
Perks and benefits may not fully match those of permanent employees
Career planning needs to be proactive—traditional “promotion ladders” may not apply
Seen from another angle, these factors don't diminish the value of contract roles—but highlight the need for a positive, forward-thinking approach. If you can make the most of these opportunities, contract roles can become a powerful springboard for career.
Why are companies increasingly turning to contract staffing?
Recent HR market research shows that more than 60% of organisations are considering hiring more contract talent. What's driving this trend? There are several reasons:
For businesses, it means:
Strategic agility: Contract roles allow companies to maintain a strong core team while adapting quickly to market changes, helping reduce fixed labour costs.
Business innovation: Organisations can launch new projects or test new systems without committing to permanent headcount.
Cost and efficiency: Greater workforce flexibility helps manage short-term cost pressures and improve operational efficiency.
Digital transformation and skills access: Contract staffing makes it easier to bring in specialised talent to support business transformation.
For professionals:
Project variety: Gain hands-on experience across departments and systems.
Broader industry insights: Work with different organisations and business models.
CV and skills boost: Showcase real project achievements and strengthen your professional profile.
Potential for permanent role: High-performing talent may transition into permanent roles or secure additional projects.
Career flexibility: Choose assignments that fit your goals and manage your own career rhythm.
Contract role is no longer a stopgap solution—it's becoming a common approach to workforce planning. For professionals, adapting early to this trend enables you to seize opportunities ahead of the curve.
How to stay ahead in a changing job market?
As market dynamics shift, career growth is no longer tied solely to permanent roles or traditional promotion paths. The key is not resistance, but proactive adjustment. Here are some practical steps to consider:
1. Upgrade Your Skills
Mastering core digital tools and emerging technologies is essential for adapting to contract roles quickly.
Core systems: Build proficiency in supply chain platforms such as SAP, Oracle, and Coupa to ensure you can hit the ground running in project-based roles.
Emerging technologies: Familiarise yourself with AI-driven forecasting, blockchain for traceability, and RPA/automation tools to strengthen your competitiveness in complex projects.
Advanced data & project management: Develop skills in data analysis, automated reporting, and cross-functional project planning and execution.
2. Mindset Matters
Contract or project-based roles aren't just temporary solutions—they can be pivotal steps in your career journey. Adopting the right mindset makes all the difference:
Embrace the opportunity: See short-term or project roles as platforms to gain experience and showcase your capabilities, rather than a compromise.
Focus on outcomes: Set clear, measurable goals for each assignment and concentrate on delivering tangible results that add value.
Learn and grow: Extract transferable skills from every project—such as cross-functional collaboration, decision-making, and data analysis.
Think far beyond: Treat each short-term experience as an investment in your future career, laying the groundwork for progression or transformation.
3. Build your network
Actively creating and nurturing your professional network. Here are a few practical ways to get started:
Join industry events, attend sector conferences, online forums, or community meet-ups to stay connected and visible.
Maintain relationships with recruiters and peers to keep up with the latest market trends.
Exchange insights, share project experiences to strengthen your professional presence.
4. Build your personal profile
Showcase your expertise and perspective on professional platforms to stand out in a competitive market.
Post your professional views, project achievements, and data-driven observations.
Take part in online discussions and offer fresh, thoughtful perspectives.
Present measurable results through case studies, e.g. charts or short videos that highlight your contribution.
Tips: Regularly share project updates or industry insights on LinkedIn to boost visibility.
5. Diversify your career path
Beyond traditional multinationals or leading domestic firms, there are plenty of alternative routes worth exploring:
Consider consultancy projects, freelance work, or roles in different industries.
Launch a venture or join an innovation project to gain hands-on, varied experience.
When weighing up these options, it's important to assess both risks and rewards:
Potential risks: Income may fluctuate and assignments can be short-term.
Key benefits: Broader experience, enhanced skills, and a wider perspective.
A diversified career path not only helps you navigate market shifts with confidence but also keeps your professional growth on track. By adopting these strategies, you'll be better equipped to embrace contract roles, take control of your career, and build the core capabilities that give you a long-term competitive edge.
Career development: a diversified journey, not a straight line
For supply chain and procurement professionals, taking on a temp role isn't a step back. Instead, it's a smart way to keep accumulating experience and broaden your skill set. Even as hiring practices evolve in global firms, contract roles can still offer valuable learning opportunities and help you stay competitive.
Tomorrow's careers won't follow a single route but will be filled with choices and options. Sometimes, a temp role can serve as a springboard to a bigger stage, making your CV stand out and enhancing your skills.
Markets change fast. Those who are willing to adjust their mindset and plan proactively will be the ones who move first – and win.
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