Gartner speculates on Logistics Manager’s compensation in post-COVID-19 world

As reported in LM, Gartner Inc. says that the global spread of COVID-19 is causing more disruption in supply chains and logistics networks, thereby causing changes in spending habits. But there’s new speculation that it may also have an impact on future compensation for today’s logistics managers. 

According to Courtney Rogerson, Senior Principal Analyst, Gartner, the urgent need for medical and pharma goods has raised the consciousness of the general public for logistical excellence. 

“Furthermore, with the rise of Amazon and ecommerce, logistics became a strategic differentiator before this crisis,” she told LM in an interview. “What the pandemic has reminded us is how critical supply chain and logistics are at the foundational level. While the growth of digital business holds the promise of innovation, optimization, and new products/services – physical goods can’t reach their destination without physical assets to get them there.”

Meanwhile, in order to limit the impact of COVID-19, many logistics managers have been instructed by local governments or advised by their employers to stay at home. 

“Employers have put in place controls around travel and site visitors. For factories, this resulted in goods not being produced and exported to dependent markets or other factories,” says Sarah Watt, senior director analyst with the Gartner Supply Chain practice. As long as this situation continues, supply chains won’t work as intended.

“As the virus extends globally, supply chain leaders need to think about how to protect the health of workers, and support individuals who are ill. Providing clear and consistent communication through human resources and travel security is essential,” Watt adds. “As this crisis is ongoing, the risk is that crisis management teams become fatigued and make poor decisions.”