logistics manager

The specific duties of a logistics manager include:

• strategic planning: logistics managers develop and implement strategies to optimise supply chain efficiency, reduce costs and ensure customer satisfaction. You analyse existing operations, identify areas for improvement and implement changes to achieve your goals.
• vendor management: you negotiate contracts with transportation providers, warehouse operators and other vendors to secure the best possible rates and service levels.
• compliance and risk management: logistics managers must ensure that all supply chain operations comply with industry regulations, safety standards and company policies. You also identify and mitigate potential risks to the supply chain, such as supplier disruptions, transportation delays or inventory issues.

Logistics managers typically work in office settings, within manufacturing plants, distribution centres or warehouses. You will often work closely with other departments, such as procurement, sales and customer service, to ensure that supply chain operations align with business objectives. The work environment can be fast-paced and demanding, requiring logistics managers to be adaptable and able to make quick decisions under pressure. You may also be required to travel to visit suppliers, warehouses or distribution centres and may need to be on-call to address any issues that arise during the transportation or storage of goods.

As a logistics manager, you will work closely with a large group of professionals within and outside your organisation to ensure the efficient flow of goods and materials. Within your company, you collaborate with colleagues from various departments, such as procurement, sales and production, to align supply chain strategies with the company's overall objectives. You often communicate with warehouse and transportation teams to coordinate the storage and movement of goods, ensuring that products are delivered on time and in optimal condition. In some cases, you work directly with supervisors, office managers, operations managers, and other managers.

In addition to your internal colleagues, you also interact with external partners, including suppliers, manufacturers and third-party logistics providers. Building and maintaining strong supply chain relationships with these partners is crucial to ensure seamless coordination and collaboration. You may also engage with government agencies, customs authorities and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with industry-specific requirements or import and export regulations.

Logistics managers typically work full-time, standard office hours. However, the nature of the job sometimes requires you to work additional hours or be on-call to address any urgent issues that arise. In addition, you might have to remain available outside of regular working hours to coordinate with international suppliers or transportation providers or to handle any unexpected supply chain disruptions.

The job outlook for logistics managers in India is promising, with growing demand for professionals who can efficiently manage complex supply chain operations. As the country's economy continues to expand and global trade increases, the need for skilled logistics managers will rise. Additionally, advancements in technology and the growth of e-commerce are driving businesses to invest in more sophisticated logistics and supply chain management systems, further increasing the demand for logistics managers.

With the potential to advance to senior management or executive-level roles within an organisation, opportunities for career progression are abundant for logistics managers who demonstrate strong performance. Pursuing additional certifications or education in supply chain management also improves your career prospects.

Finding your logistics manager job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:

• a wide variety of training and development opportunities
• an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
• a range of opportunities in your area
• get paid on a monthly basis
• temporary and permanent contracts

Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a logistics manager is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!

While having a background in logistics or supply chain management can be beneficial, it's not always necessary. Some employers may accept candidates with degrees in other fields or relevant experience in related roles.

Logistics managers can find employment in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage and transportation.

A logistics manager focuses specifically on the transportation, storage and distribution of goods, while a supply chain manager takes a broader view of the entire supply chain, from sourcing materials to delivering finished products to customers.

Part-time positions for logistics managers are less common, as the role typically requires a full-time commitment to managing complex supply chain operations. However, smaller organisations or freelance consulting roles may offer part-time opportunities.

While some aspects of logistics management can be performed remotely, the hands-on nature of the job often requires logistics managers to be on-site at warehouses, distribution centres or manufacturing facilities.

Applying for a logistics manager job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!