Helpful advice for wannabe logistics managers

Are you considering a career in logistics? One of the top fields when it comes to logistics jobs is logistics management.

What do logistics managers do?

Logistics management is an essential part of the supply chain. Logistics managers plan, implement and control the efficient, effective-forward and reverse-flow and storage of goods, services and related information between the point of origin and the point of consumption (to ensure that customer requirements are met). You’ll probably spend a lot of time working in a warehouse (where goods are stored) if you’re a logistics manager.

Do you need to study to become a logistics manager?

You can work your way up from the bottom, but ideally you should try to obtain a degree in Transport and Logistics from one of SA’s tertiary institutions beforehand, or while you’re working your way up the corporate ladder.

Which essential skills should logistics managers have?

Time management is important, since you will most probably have deadlines. Good communication skills are also essential – you will need to actively listen and speak to logistics staff.

Complex problem solving, judgment and decision making is also part of the job since you will be required to think logically and reasonably and make decisions based on your findings and conversations with staff, suppliers and retailers.

You will also need to evaluate, analyse and co-ordinate systems that are already in place and look at ways that you can make them more productive or look at new measures that you can implement in your company structure.

Negotiation and persuasion skills are also important. You also need to be able to manage finances, personnel and materials if you want to be a logistics manager.

Well, there you have it, some helpful advice for all you wannabe logistics managers out there.

Looking for logistics jobs? Check out the latest listings on Job Mail for this job field.