The demand for logistics and supply chain management professionals has been on an upswing since July 2014 and in January 2015, the profile saw a 24 per cent rise in demand. This was significant in the manufacturing and retail industry, with manufacturing reporting 22 per cent rise between Jul-Dec 2014.In February 2015, both the sectors accounted for an average 4 per cent share of total demand for logistics professionals across industries and experience categories.With the government's continued push for the 'Make in India' campaign, demand for logistics and supply chain management professionals in the manufacturing sector is likely to go up.The specialisations will largely be needed in logistics, exports, supply chain management and inventory management. "In today's business environment , supply chain is evolving as a crucial function. The reason is increased focus on customer service. Non-price value for customers is gaining importance, pushing up demand for supply chain professionals," Rajesh Tripathi, vice-president and HR head GHCL Ltd , told TimesJobs.com.In the retail sector, the demand is high for logistics and supply chain roles to service the expanding retail and e-commerce segments. "Within India, the e-commerce business will generate direct and indirect jobs in logistics, warehousing, customer service, IT, packaging and administration," Ashu Malhotra, HR head, Jabong, told TimesJobs.com.Besides the BPO/ITeS and automobiles sectors are also likely to see new job opportunities in verticals of logistics.Even the healthcare sector has reported a 7 per cent rise in demand between Jul-Dec 2014 for logistics professionals at the middle level.In the automobile industry, the need to sustain increased level of production is pushing the demand for talent in logistics and operations domains.As India's economy goes global, skilled manpower in logistics and supply chain will be in continuous demand.Problem solving Collaboration Good verbal and written communication skills Understanding of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems