Supply chain managers face burnout as industry demands increase. Discover strategies to manage overload, enhance visibility, and maintain productivity in a high-stress supply chain environment.
The pandemic has impacted every sector, and the supply chain industry is no exception. From factory closures and port backups to increased transportation costs, supply chain disruptions have taken a toll on professionals in this field.
In 2021, the supply chain industry reported the highest rate of layoffs among managers since 2016. LinkedIn data showed a 28% increase in turnover from 2020 to 2021, primarily due to burnout and a demand for better pay.
On one hand, companies are paying more to retain supply chain managers who can handle complex disruptions. On the other, these challenges are pushing professionals toward burnout.
Supply chain managers face burnout as industry demands increase. Discover strategies to manage overload, enhance visibility, and maintain productivity in a high-stress supply chain environment.
What Causes Burnout in Supply Chain Management?
The pandemic brought high demand, resource shortages, increased charter prices, and production delays, creating complex issues that supply chain professionals struggled to solve—leading to burnout.
Managing an entire supply chain requires strong processes and advanced technology, but many companies lack these tools. As a result, professionals are forced into manual, time-consuming tasks without sufficient technological support.
The Role of Manual Processes in Burnout
Currently, Excel spreadsheets are still used by 67.4% of supply chain managers³. This reliance on outdated tools reduces efficiency and leads to burnout.
Only 6% of companies report having full supply chain visibility, while 69% admit they have little to none. This lack of transparency highlights an industry gap where automation and visibility could ease the workload and allow managers to focus on strategy.
Strategies to Combat Burnout in Supply Chain Management
Ensure Complete Supply Chain Visibility: Full visibility helps anticipate disruptions, stock-outs, and logistical bottlenecks.
Invest in Process Automation: Using modern logistics software like Easy4Pro reduces team workload, enhances data accuracy, and provides better control over operations.
Monitor for Burnout Signs: Watch for signs of burnout, such as decreased productivity and disconnection. Early intervention can help minimize the impact.
Experiencing Supply Chain Burnout? Learn How Easy4Pro Can Help Streamline Your Operations and Boost Resilience.
Sources:
² Statscan
³ Zippia
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