Flexible Working

Flexible working continues to expand across supply chain roles. Two thirds (66%) of surveyed professionals now have flexible working hours, up 4% from last year, and 64% have some level of remote working flexibility - a 5% increase.

Flexibility can vary vastly between function, however, which sheds light on a genuine structural challenge - many supply chain jobs simply require physical presence. Where remote flexibility is constrained by the nature of the role, employers should be upfront about this in job advertising and offset it with other flexibility levers such as compressed hours, flexible start and finish times, or enhanced leave. Candidates in these roles know what they’re signing up for - but they still want to feel that their work-life balance is respected.

QUESTION 14

Are your working hours flexible in your current role?

Yes

No

QUESTION 15

Do you have flexibility to work remotely in your current role? If yes, how many days per week can you work remotely on average?

1 day a week

2 days a week

3 days a week

4 days a week

My role is fully remote

“An increase in flexible working hours is expected, especially as companies look for ways to offset return-to-office policies. In terms of remote flexibility, fully remote roles are still limited outside of certain functions such as commercial roles, while operational roles remain largely site-based.

“This is something we help clients navigate, advising on what competitors are offering and how their flexible working policies impact their ability to attract talent.”

Christine Corson, Managing Director - DSJ Global USA

Flexible Working Expectations & Motivations

Flexible working expectations continue to rise, and employers resisting it are narrowing their talent pool. 81% of surveyed supply chain professionals say flexible working is important or very important when considering a new role - up from 77% last year - and while 75% would still accept a fully in-office or on-site role, that figure has dropped 5% since 2025.

If a role is fully in-office by necessity, communicate that early and honestly, and where flexibility is genuinely possible, make it explicit in job postings and offer letters. The 39% willing to trade salary for flexibility also points to an opportunity: flexible working can be a cost-effective way to remain competitive on total package.