The procurement, supply chain and logistics professionals were among the best retained in the past year as organizations sought to manage costs, according to the latest Global Salary Survey from Australian-based specialist recruitment consultancy Robert Walters.

The survey found that as many parts of the market fluctuated, organizations focused on building strong procurement and supply chain teams. This led to increased investment in roles that impact costs and efficiencies.

Alastair Pennie, Robert Walters' associate director explains, "As the economy fluctuated organizations looked closely at reducing costs, making procurement and supply chain professionals some of the best retained in the market. However, the lack of candidate movement didn't completely stunt growth. There was a steady flow of opportunities at the mid to junior end of the market, particularly for roles focusing on a niche area of spend or modern supply chain techniques. We expect this to continue in 2013, with innovative companies always looking for new systems and processes that offer them the opportunity to improve their operations and bottom line."

The survey also found:

• Category management jobs will remain at high levels in 2013, leading to salary increases for specialists in this area
• As manufacturing functions will largely remain offshore, recruitment activity in supply chain will continue to be driven by the S&OP process
• The coal seam gas market will consistently grow, with demand for procurement, supply chain and logistics professionals experienced in this area remaining strong

Now in its 14th year, the Robert Walters Global Salary Survey is compiled by the company's research team and covering all 24 countries and disciplines in which Robert Walters specializes. The latest edition offers an overview of salaries and recruitment trends from 2012, as well as those expected in 2013.