Throughout the world, many companies depend on supply chains to gain revenue. Unfortunately, many companies are having a hard time finding skilled workers. Statistics from 2014 found that 71% of those surveyed admitted to having a shortage of skilled candidates. Considering that, it’s important to ensure that your company is hiring the right supply chain employees. With that in mind, here are five important skills to look for while hiring a supply chain executive.

1. Skilled with Technology
   
   Much of any company’s supply chains have to do with technology. Therefore, it’s imperative that a skilled supply chain executive is tech friendly. While this person doesn’t need to be a tech genius, it’s important that any candidates have a good grasp on supply chain technologies.
2. Strong Economic Skills
   
   Another important trait that supply chain recruiters look for is someone with good economic skills. This person doesn’t have to be plugged into reading the latest economic statistics around the clock. However, this person does need to understand the economy of a business they’re working for. In addition, they’ll need to understand economic conditions of the industry or sector they’re working in.
3. Being an Effective Manager
   
   Supply chain executive recruiters often look for candidates that have extensive management experience. It’s important that supply chain managers are effective leaders and able to handle a wide variety of situations. In addition, these workers will need to effectively keep supply chain employees motivated to keep production at high levels. Therefore, being an effective leader is an important quality of a great supply chain executive.
4. Great at Collaborating with Other Departments
   
   Statistics show that the food industry accounts for nearly 58% of shipments containing flexible packaging. Food manufacturing environments rely upon workers effectively communicating with each other. That being said, any company that utilizes supply chains needs to find executives that are great collaborators. Great collaborators are able to effectively communicate with everyone, from new hires to fellow executives.
5. Knows How to Motivate Others
   
   Supply chains are often fast paced environments. With that in mind, it’s understandable that supply chain workers experience drops in morale from time to time. Considering that, it’s important to find a supply chain executive for your business that is able to motivate others. Someone who can effectively motivate workers to work towards a common goal is a great skill to have.

To summarize, there are several important skills that many supply chain leaders possess. If you’re unable to find the right workers, consider partnering with a supply chain staffing company. Statistics show that the average production worker in the United States earns an estimated $11.95 per hour. Staffing companies are able to place workers in the right role, from entry level up to executive positions. An executive staffing service ensures that your business has all the tools needed to find the perfect supply chain leaders.