Hiring in Engineering and Manufacturing: Guide and Trends in 2026

Vietnam strengthens its position as a regional supply chain hub

In 2025, supply chain and logistics hiring in Vietnam remained resilient amid global economic shifts and ongoing manufacturing diversification. Entering 2026, the market continues to evolve as Vietnam cements its reputation as a key regional hub. Despite cautious headcount planning, demand for qualified professionals is expected to remain strong as multinational corporations expand and local firms scale up operations.

According to Trang Nguyen, Senior Manager at Robert Walters Vietnam, “Vietnam’s supply chain landscape is maturing rapidly. We’re seeing a blend of international investment and domestic expansion that’s driving competition for high-calibre talent.”

Skills-based hiring takes the stage

Companies are placing growing emphasis on skills rather than traditional credentials. As digital transformation accelerates, employers are seeking professionals who can connect strategy, technology, and operations across the entire supply chain.

Trang shares, “The market has shifted towards talent who can lead transformation, leverage data, and respond swiftly to business needs. Employers want people who can balance speed, cost efficiency, and sustainability.”

This shift is reflected in the demand for end-to-end supply chain leaders—professionals capable of overseeing sourcing, production, logistics, and customer fulfillment. Strategic positions such as Head of Supply Chain, E2E Planning Manager, and Regional Logistics Director are especially sought after, particularly within FMCG, electronics, and industrial manufacturing sectors.

Business-savvy and agile professionals in high demand

Procurement and logistics roles have evolved beyond operational execution. Companies are now looking for agile professionals who combine business acumen, analytical ability, and leadership skills to navigate complex markets.

Top employers are hiring Category Managers, Strategic Sourcing Leads, and Procurement Business Partners who can drive cost optimization and sustainable value creation while maintaining resilience against global supply disruptions.

Meanwhile, the logistics sector is undergoing a major transformation. Trang notes, “Both global providers and local manufacturers are investing heavily in digital capabilities and in-house logistics operations. The ability to manage transformation, implement automation, and optimize costs has become critical.”

Digital transformation and new career paths

The rise of AI, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making has created entirely new roles within supply chain functions. Specialists in analytics, demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and control tower operations are highly prized, especially those with ERP and MES system experience.

Companies are increasingly centralizing planning, procurement, and customer service through shared service hubs. This has opened up opportunities for professionals skilled in process design and regional integration.

Increments expected Nurturing the next generation of leaders

An encouraging trend for 2026 is the emergence of young, outstanding supply chain leaders. Many of these professionals bring international exposure and digital fluency, blending global best practices with local insight.

“Vietnamese professionals in their 30s are stepping into leadership roles faster than before,” Trang observes. “Their innovative mindset and agility make them key drivers of transformation and succession planning.”

Challenges and outlook

Despite strong hiring demand, Vietnam continues to face talent shortages in niche areas such as cold chain logistics, trade compliance, and sustainable sourcing. To bridge these gaps, companies are investing in training programs, collaborating with universities, and attracting overseas Vietnamese professionals back home.

Trang expects salaries to remain on an upward trajectory, especially for mid- to senior-level professionals who bring technical depth and leadership capability.

“Those who stay and grow with their organizations can expect salary increments of around 5–7% in 2026,” she says.

Looking ahead

Vietnam’s supply chain, procurement, and logistics sector is entering a transformative phase defined by digital innovation, strategic hiring, and leadership renewal. Companies that invest in their talent pipelines and digital infrastructure will be best positioned to thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Whether you are a hiring manager or a supply chain professional planning your next move, 2026 offers a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of Vietnam’s logistics and procurement ecosystem.

Find out more 

Request access to our 2026 Salary Survey to benchmark salaries and to find out more about key hiring trends in Vietnam.