Logistics/distribution manager

Logistics and distribution managers: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Their key task is to organise the safe and efficient storage and distribution of goods, and to ensure that orders are satisfied correctly.

Other responsibilities include:

• organising shipments
• coordinating drivers, vehicles, loads and journeys
• operating IT systems
• negotiating and agreeing contracts
• developing and confirming schedules
• planning for and negotiating technical difficulties
• preparing paperwork for regulatory bodies
• liaising with staff.

Typical employers of logistics and distribution managers

• specialist distribution companies
• consultancies
• manufacturers
• the armed forces
• major commercial organisations
• retailers.

Vacancies are advertised by careers services and occasionally recruitment agencies, or in national newspapers and specialist publications such as Logistics and Transport Focus and Logistics and Transport Appointments Bulletin.

Qualifications and training required

Employers prefer graduates with a relevant qualification in distribution, logistics or transportation. Relevant experience is not expected, but any gained during placements or vacations can be useful - particularly when working in a team or to tight deadlines.

Key skills for logistics and distribution managers

• team-working skills
• managerial skills
• interpersonal skills
• logical reasoning
• numeracy skills
• IT skills