Job Brief:
As a Logistics Manager, you will manage logistics processes, including transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and order fulfillment, to optimize resource utilization, minimize costs, and meet customer demand. Your role involves planning, organizing, and controlling logistics activities to achieve operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement logistics strategies, policies, and procedures to optimize supply chain efficiency, minimize costs, and improve service levels.
- Plan and coordinate logistics operations, including transportation, distribution, warehousing, inventory management, and order fulfillment, to meet customer requirements and delivery schedules.
- Manage transportation activities, including carrier selection, routing, scheduling, and freight negotiation, to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods to customers or distribution centers.
- Monitor and track shipments, orders, and inventory levels using logistics management systems or software, ensuring real-time visibility and control over logistics operations.
- Coordinate with suppliers, vendors, and carriers to ensure on-time delivery of materials, components, or finished goods, resolving issues and mitigating risks to minimize disruptions.
- Optimize warehouse operations, layout, and storage systems to maximize space utilization, minimize inventory holding costs, and improve order picking and packing efficiency.
- Implement inventory management techniques, such as ABC analysis, cycle counting, and just-in-time (JIT) inventory control, to minimize stockouts, excess inventory, and carrying costs.
- Lead and supervise logistics teams, including warehouse staff, transportation coordinators, and inventory controllers, providing guidance, coaching, and support to ensure performance and productivity.
- Conduct performance analysis and KPI tracking for logistics operations, measuring key metrics such as on-time delivery, fill rate, inventory turnover, and transportation costs, and implementing improvements or corrective actions as needed.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and industry regulations governing transportation, warehousing, and distribution activities, maintaining documentation and records as required.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, manufacturing, sales, and customer service, to align logistics activities with business goals, forecasts, and production schedules.
- Evaluate and select logistics service providers, carriers, and third-party logistics (3PL) partners, negotiating contracts, rates, and service level agreements (SLAs) to achieve cost savings and service quality.
- Identify opportunities for process optimization, automation, and technology adoption in logistics operations, such as route optimization software, RFID tracking systems, and warehouse management systems (WMS).
- Resolve customer inquiries, complaints, or issues related to logistics, transportation, or delivery, ensuring timely resolution and customer satisfaction.
- Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in logistics and supply chain management, participating in training programs, seminars, and professional development activities.
Requirements and Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field; master's degree or professional certification (e.g., CLTD, CSCP) is a plus.
- Proven experience in logistics management, supply chain operations, or transportation management, with a track record of achieving results and improving efficiency.
- Strong knowledge of logistics principles, practices, and processes, including transportation modes, warehousing operations, inventory management, and distribution strategies.
- Familiarity with logistics management software and systems, such as TMS, WMS, ERP, or inventory control systems, for planning, execution, and monitoring of logistics activities.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimize logistics operations and solve complex logistics challenges.
- Leadership and team management skills, with the ability to lead, motivate, and develop logistics teams, fostering collaboration, communication, and accountability.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships, negotiate with stakeholders, and communicate effectively with internal and external partners.
- Project management skills, with the ability to plan, organize, and execute logistics initiatives, projects, and process improvements within scope, budget, and timeline constraints.
- Attention to detail and accuracy in managing logistics documentation, records, and reporting, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
- Adaptability and flexibility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing business needs and market conditions.
Required Skills:
- Logistics management
- Supply chain optimization
- Transportation management
- Inventory control
- Team leadership
- Analytical skills
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Project management
- Adaptability
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does a logistics manager do?
A Logistics Manager oversees and coordinates the movement of goods, materials, and resources throughout the supply chain, from production or procurement to distribution and delivery, to ensure efficient and timely operations.
What qualifications are required to become a logistics manager?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field is required to become a Logistics Manager. Professional certification (e.g., CLTD, CSCP) and proven experience in logistics management or supply chain operations are also important qualifications for this role.
