Hiring in Supply Chain and Procurement (Contract): Guide and Trends in 2026

More contract positions expected in 2026

In 2025, hiring for contract positions in the Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics sector was defined by the ongoing expansion of technology and sustainability efforts.

Advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics transformed supply chain operations in 2025, improving efficiency, visibility and predictive capabilities. Employers placed more attention on digital transformation, upgrading legacy systems and upskilling staff on emerging technologies. Companies also sought tech-savvy professionals, but struggled to find talent in niche areas such as blockchain implementation of AI-powered logistics optimisation.

Faced with mounting pressure from consumers, governments and investors, companies doubled down on efforts to reduce their environmental impact.

Read on to find out more about the labour market and hiring trends for Singapore’s Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics professionals in 2026, with a focus on contract positions.

Growing tech and sustainability capabilities

According to Greg Cazalis, Principal Consultant at Robert Walters Singapore, we will see businesses rely even more on tech and automation to inform decision-making as they navigate global uncertainties and consumer demands.

“As such, hiring is expected to revolve around specific technical expertise such as AI, blockchain and data analytics in 2026. Besides hiring, there will also be more efforts around upskilling employees with capabilities in AI and blockchain,” he says.

Sustainability regulations will also continue to tighten across the globe. As businesses align operations with ESG mandates, demand for roles in this area is expected to go up. Professionals skilled in green procurement practices, carbon reduction strategies and circular supply chain design will be highly sought after.

Contract roles are expected to increase. This comes as businesses seek greater flexibility amidst headcount restrictions and larger economic uncertainty.

How candidates can get ahead of AI

Over the past year, Greg has seen technology take over tasks from automating data processing to optimising delivery routes and predicting inventory needs. Roles heavy on

repetitive supply chain work, data entry and inventory management are at risk of being replaced as more businesses integrate AI.

“My recommendation is to focus on picking up technologies such as data analytics and AI,” he says. “Improving human-centric attributes that AI can’t replace, such as honing your emotional intelligence and business partnering skills, will also put professionals in good stead.”

Top roles and skills in demand

Within the contracting space, roles related to demand planning, supply planning and supply chain transformation will be in demand. Some popular job titles include supply chain project manager or process excellence. Candidates vying for these positions are expected to bring ESG or tech skillsets.

As teams become more dispersed across global networks, companies appreciate professionals who can communicate and collaborate well with others. Strategic thinking, problem-solving and resilience are other valuable soft skills.

Companies are really after well-rounded professionals, who can complement their technical expertise with human-centric skills to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.

Advice for talent attraction and retention

The cautious air permeating the economy affects more than businesses. Greg says that candidates are now more careful about exploring new job opportunities, and they now prioritise stability and long-term growth.

Candidates evaluate each new role holistically, assessing a company’s employer reputation, financial resilience and crisis management capabilities before making a move. They have been more willing to switch jobs when the move aligns with their long-term career goals, such as when a role offers exposure to emerging technologies. As such, companies that provide career development and upskilling opportunities in these areas have a stronger advantage in attracting and retaining talent.

Attractive compensation packages are necessary for specialised and strategic roles, as talent with the relevant skills are in short supply.

Specialised and strategic roles also require more attractive compensation packages.

Lastly, hybrid and flexible work models are key as candidates value work-life balance.

Steady increase in salaries

In 2026, salaries are expected to go up by 5 – 8%.

However, specialised roles may see increments of up to 10 – 15%. Professionals who combine technical knowledge with soft skills are most likely to command larger increments.

Find out more

Request access to our 2026 Salary Survey to benchmark salaries and to find out more about key hiring trends for Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics industry contract professionals in Singapore.