Demand for fresh talent in the FMCG sector has surged, with hiring intentions for freshers increasing to 32 per cent in the second half of 2024, up from 27 per cent in the first half, according to the TeamLease EdTech Career Outlook Report for HY2 (July-December 2024). This growth is primarily driven by deeper market penetration in rural and semi-urban areas, coupled with the rapid expansion of the food processing industry, which is expected to grow from $263 billion in 2019-20 to $535 billion by 2025-26 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6 per cent.
Key product segments such as dairy, ready-to-eat (RTE) foods, frozen meat, and snacks are driving the creation of job roles in supply chain management and market research, according to the report. FMCG companies are increasingly focusing on freshers with expertise in market insights, retail distribution, and regional consumer knowledge as they expand into new, untapped markets.
Food engineer positions are expected to see a hiring intent of 41 per cent in Bengaluru, while logistics coordinators are projected to have a hiring intent of 39 per cent in Delhi. In Hyderabad, demand for supply and distribution chain roles stands at 37 per cent, while brand management trainees in Bengaluru are expected to see a hiring intent of 34 per cent.
Each role requires a combination of technical expertise in supply chain, inventory, and logistics management, as well as adaptability and strong communication skills to navigate diverse regional markets.
“As companies focus on strengthening supply chains, market research and brand management, the demand for talent is expected to be high. Freshers now investing in related skills and expertise definitely stand to benefit from it,” said Shantanu Rooj, founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech.
This hiring trend underscores the FMCG sector’s significant role as a major employment driver in India, with continued growth expected in the demand for fresh talent across key cities and emerging regional markets. The survey included 526 small, medium, and large companies across 18 industries.