Competencies in 4.0 logistics : a case of Slovenia

english

2025

volume 16, issue 2

competencies of the future   logistics   supply chain

Univerza v Mariboru, Fakulteta za logistiko
(Obvezni izvod spletne publikacije)

This paper investigates the competencies demanded by employers in Slovenia's logistics sector, as identified through the analysis of job advertisements in field of logistics and supply chains in Slovenia. The study begins with a theoretical framework, outlining the concept of competencies, their relevance within the field of logistics, and their evolving role in the context of Industry 4.0, or the so-called "smart industry." The empirical component of the research focuses on identifying the competencies required of logistics and supply chain professionals in Slovenia. These competencies were systematically categorized into three groups— technical, managerial, and social—according to the model proposed by Grodek-Szostak et al. (2020). For each category, the five most frequently cited competencies were determined and ranked. The findings suggest that technical competencies, particularly those aligned with emerging and developing technologies and industry innovations, are extremely important in the Slovenian logistics and supply chain sector. The results stress the necessity for continuous professional development and lifelong learning, as most competencies are acquired through combination of formal education and work experiences. The analysis also highlights a discrepancy: many job advertisements do not explicitly require certain technical competencies that are essential for the successful implementation and advancement of smart industry principles.

17.02.2026