Logistics Manager Jobs

Logistics managers are responsible for managing processes involved in a supply chain, liaising with a variety of parties including suppliers of raw materials, manufacturers, retailers and consumers. This is normally a two-way process with return of goods. Logistics managers coordinate these processes to make certain that customers are satisfied. A logistic manager will also be expected to have an awareness of and strategic response to external influences, such as legislation, fuel costs and environmental pressures to ensure that his or her duties are performed successfully. The role of distribution manager within logistics may entail transportation, stock control, warehousing, and ensuring structures are implemented to monitor the flow of goods and materials. Information Technology is an important part of the logistics field in forecasting increasingly complex systems of stock levels, delivery times, transport costs and performance evaluation. The responsibilities of a logistic manager will vary in relation to the specific job role and whether the employing company is a manufacturer, retailer, or specialist service provider.

There are many duties that are undertaken to support the smooth and efficient operation of supply chain processes, and normal work activities will chiefly include:

Monitoring the quality, quantity, cost and efficiency of the movement and storage of goods.

Coordinating and controlling the order cycle and associated information systems.

Analysing data to monitor performance and plan improvements and demand.

Allocating and managing staff resources according to fluctuating needs.

Meeting and negotiating with customers and suppliers.

Developing business by acquiring new contracts, analysing logistical problems and providing new solutions.

When a logistic manager manages a warehouse or transport staff, his or her role may also include:

Implementing health and safety procedures.

Managing staff training issues;

Motivating other members of the team;

Project management;

Establishing objectives.

For senior logistic managers their roles may additionally involve:

Planning projects.

Using specialist knowledge, for example mechanical-handling systems, to provide consultancy services.

Entry level

Formal qualifications are not always necessary. It is possible to being one’s logistic career in a junior post, for example as a transport clerk, and with training and experience move up in the ranks to management. However, in this situation the prospective logistic manager is expected to have a diploma or degree in a subject such as international transport, logistics, supply chain management, transport management or geography. Some other business degree and diploma courses may also be used.

To enter a degree program in logistics it would normallybe required that you have A levels/three H grades and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent qualifications. For HNCs/HNDs, a person will typically need one A level/two H grades and four GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or an equivalent qualifications. Additionally it is possible to study on a Foundation degree in Logistics and Transport.

Some people will pursue the relevant higher degrees, such as an MSc in Transport Management, MSc in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, or MSc in Logistics.