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Economy slows wage growth in transport, logistics

Transport and logistics salaries plateau this financial year, with economy cooling pay packets

Transport and logistics salaries plateaued this financial year, with the economic downturn cooling pay packets.

Recruitment specialist Hays says its annual survey of employees in the sector shows a significant contrast to previous years.

Tim James, the Senior Regional Director of Hays Logistics Personnel, says wage growth has slowed in what was an overheated and unsustainable job market.

“In the vast majority of cases, the premium salary that employers offered to attract a new recruit has all but disappeared, with starting salaries for new employees now largely in line with the salaries of existing employees,” says James, who cites sign-on bonuses as another victim of the economy.

He says the change has led to significant salary stability across the board.

“Candidates looking for a new role are aware of the market shift and so are focusing on the employer and the opportunity rather than any possible increase in salary,” he says.

“While salaries in general stabilised, there are still some instances of salary pressure for roles where candidate demand remains high. This does however depend heavily on the overall success of the business.”

Roles managing the operational site, streamlining systems and managing performance are still in demand, Hays reports.

James says process improvement specialists able to drive down the logistical cost per carton are also viewed as crucial in the current environment.

“Despite pressure on costs and headcount, forward-thinking employers continue to focus on their human resources planning and remain committed to rewarding their top performers, particularly those who add demonstrable value to the organisation,” he says.

The 2009 Hays survey examines more than 1,000 job titles across 16 sectors in 12 locations, with 1,700 employees consulted.

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