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proffessional network
Careers
Logistics and Transport Careers
Logistics and Transport officers / managers play a crucial role in organising and improving the supply chain. This could include liaising with suppliers of raw materials, manufacturers, retailers and, increasingly, the end consumer. Goods have to be in place at the right time and in the right quantity to satisfy consumer demand and ensure maximum sales. Logistics managers work with other professionals, such as purchasing officers, warehouse and transport managers, to make sure that goods are received in the depot on time, stored correctly, and dispatched on time. Using specialist computer packages, they monitor stock levels, re-order goods when necessary, and track the movement of goods through the depot. They may also oversee the ordering process and packaging of goods ready for dispatch.
An important part of the job is to analyse existing networks and systems and develop new ones to improve efficiency.
Entry level
Formal qualifications are not always necessary. You could start out in a junior post, for example as a transport clerk, and with training and experience work up to a management. However, you would be more likely to start in this work with a diploma or degree in a subject such as international transport, logistics, supply chain management, transport management or geography. Other business degree and diploma courses may also be relevant.For degree course entry, you would normally need two A levels/three H grades and five GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent qualifications. For HNCs/HNDs, you normally need one A level/two H grades and four GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3), or equivalent qualifications. It is also possible to study on a Foundation degree in Logistics and Transport.
Some people take relevant higher degrees, such as an MSc in Transport Management, MSc in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, or MSc in Logistics. These are available at a number of centres throughout the country
Making the Grade
Some larger employers offer graduate training schemes. Logistics managers may study part time or by distance learning for qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. They can also work towards NVQs/SVQs including Levels 3 and 4 in Distribution and Warehousing Operations and Level 3 in Performing Road Haulage and Distribution Operations. Other relevant NVQs/SVQs include administration, accounting and information technology
Personal Qualities
To manage, co-ordinate and improve the total supply chain demands high-level managerial skills and the capacity to play a key part in meeting your company's longer-term strategic objectives. You would need to be numerate and able to solve problems, think on your feet and manage people. The ability to use IT packages and electronic communication methods would be vital.You must be able to prioritise your work and to work well under pressure.