How Have Supply Chain Salaries Changed in 2025 – and What Does It Mean for You?
We recently released our 2025 Salary Survey and Market Report for the Supply Chain industry, and it’s revealed some important shifts that every job seeker should be aware of.
Across the board, salaries in the supply chain sector have dropped by an average of 7% over the past 12 months.
The largest salary reductions were seen in roles above $200,000, with some dropping by as much as 15–20%. But even mid-level and specialist positions have been affected, with market rates shifting across most role types and industries within the supply chain.
Why Are Salaries Going Down?
Understanding the "why" behind these changes can help you position yourself better in today’s job market. Here are the main drivers behind this shift:
1. More Competition for Fewer Roles
There’s been a noticeable increase in competition—particularly for non-management and specialist roles. With more qualified candidates applying for each vacancy, employers can offer slightly lower salaries without losing access to strong talent.
2. Flexibility is in High Demand
Remote and hybrid roles continue to be in high demand. Because these roles are often seen as more desirable, many job seekers are willing to accept a lower salary in exchange for flexibility. This trade-off is contributing to an overall dip in average salary expectations for these roles.
3. Increased Performance Pressure
Many professionals have found themselves under more scrutiny in the workplace. With a rise in performance improvement plans (PIPs)—whether fairly applied or not—some candidates are exiting roles involuntarily. When re-entering the job market quickly, it’s not uncommon to accept a lower salary just to get back in.
What This Means for You as a Job Seeker
While it can feel disheartening to see salaries trending downward, understanding the landscape puts you in a stronger position to make smart career decisions. Here’s how you can respond:
Be Realistic but Informed
Use our 2025 Salary Survey to understand what "competitive" looks like in the current market. This doesn’t mean undervaluing yourself—it means knowing the going rate so you can negotiate with confidence and avoid overpricing yourself out of opportunities.
Look at the Full Package
If a salary offer comes in lower than expected, consider what else is on the table. Flexibility, job security, learning opportunities, and a healthy team culture can all add long-term value to your career, even if the short-term salary isn't ideal.
Position Yourself Strategically
With more candidates in the market, standing out is key. Tailor your resume, highlight measurable outcomes, and focus on how your experience translates to business value—especially in areas like cost savings, efficiency, or supplier performance.
Expect Some Resetting
If you’ve been out of work for a while or are re-entering the market after an unplanned exit, understand that a temporary salary reset may be part of the journey. Focus on getting back into a role that supports your growth and future salary progression.
Final Thoughts
Yes, salaries are shifting—but so is the market. With the right strategy and mindset, you can still secure a fulfilling and fairly compensated role in today’s supply chain landscape.
Want to benchmark your current or target salary against the market?