what is a logistics manager?
As a Logistics Manager, you help your employer maintain optimal inventory levels and ensure there is enough raw material for production activities. Overseeing the procurement and distribution of items within a supply chain may seem straightforward, but it involves complex processes. For example, if you work in a footwear manufacturing plant, you handle the procurement of raw materials, including textiles, rubber, and plastics. These come from various suppliers and must be ordered on precise schedules to prevent production delays. In addition to raw materials, you also manage the purchase of packaging items such as boxes and labels.
what are the responsibilities of a logistics manager?
In logistics, you need to find a balance between costs and benefits. For example, if you order raw materials in excess to minimize transportation expenses, you'll increase storage costs. Your role as a Logistics Manager is to optimize the supply chain to ensure your employer has what they need, in the right quantities and at the right time, to keep costs low. Due to the broad scope of the field, a Logistics Manager must have exceptional multitasking skills to handle various tasks and ensure that all supply chain functions are carried out effectively.
Do you think the role of Logistics Manager is a good fit for you given your organizational skills? If so, keep reading to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to excel in this position.
search for jobsthe average salary of a logistics manager.
According to Paylab and internal Randstad Romania resources, the average salary of a Logistics Manager in Romania is approximately 8,000-9,000 RON net per month. At the beginning of their career, with less than a year of experience in a management position, the salary can be approximately 5,500 RON net per month. The compensation package increases with the accumulation of experience and the size of the coordinated department. Logistics managers with advanced training and years of experience can earn even over 11,000 RON net per month.
Unlike other commission-based professions, Logistics Managers rely on overtime and annual bonuses to increase their compensation package. They also receive health insurance, bonuses, and non-monetary benefits such as paid vacation.
factors that influence the salary of a Logistics Manager.
Many companies are willing to pay more for experienced Logistics Managers because of the value they bring to the organization. Supply chain management typically involves developing or implementing complex strategies that require expertise. You can expect a higher compensation package when you have over five years of experience in supply chain roles. Your educational qualifications also determine your earning potential, as most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree. Having postgraduate qualifications can increase your salary. As you improve your academic qualifications, your skills develop, increasing your earning potential.
The industry sector, company size, and the size of the managed portfolio also influence your salary. For example, you may earn more in manufacturing companies because the role involves both inbound and outbound logistics functions. Logistics managers who manage small logistics centers with a capacity of up to 6,000 unique items will earn less than logistics managers who manage centers with a capacity of more than 8,000-10,000 items. A large company with many resources is also likely to pay more than a medium-sized or small company with few logistics functions.
types of logistics managers.
The main types of Logistics Managers include:
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inbound logistics managers (Incoming shipments)
As a logistics manager, you can focus solely on the inbound flow of resources needed to produce goods or services. Your responsibilities in inbound logistics include managing supplier inventories and ensuring that the transportation schedule aligns with the production timetable to prevent delays.
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outbound logistics managers (Shipments)
As an outbound logistics manager, your focus is on delivering products to customers on time. For example, you ensure that finished goods are properly packaged and shipped promptly to meet the customers' delivery schedules. You also manage inventory levels in the warehouses.
career as a logistics manager.
Logistics managers are responsible for organizing the delivery and storage of various goods within a company. They also manage inventory, negotiate contracts with suppliers, and ensure that procurement budgets are adhered to.
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description of the logistics manager role
Among the main responsibilities of a Logistics Manager are:
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Managing the flow of incoming raw materials and outgoing products: As a logistics manager, you oversee the inbound raw materials and the distribution of finished goods. You optimize distribution channels and develop plans to ensure delivery schedules are aligned with production plans.
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Budgeting and Costs: Logistics managers oversee supply chain expenses. Your role is to negotiate favorable prices with suppliers and shipping costs. You create a budget for supply chain functions and reduce shipping expenses by building strong, lasting relationships with suppliers, retailers, and carriers.
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Supervision of Shipping Operations: As a logistics manager, you work with delivery drivers and carriers to optimize shipping functions. You focus on route optimization and reviewing performance metrics for each shipping method. Additionally, you are responsible for shipping equipment such as forklifts and trucks. Therefore, you must adhere to standards and ensure that all operational costs stay within budget. You also need to communicate urgent issues and logistical problems promptly to relevant stakeholders.
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Maintaining Inventory: The primary role of a Logistics Manager revolves around managing inventory. You keep records of incoming and outgoing products or raw materials. Additionally, you monitor stock levels, delivery times, transportation efficiency, and budgets. When inventory and stock levels don’t match, you can review shipping reports and audit inventory accounts.
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Supervision and Training of Warehouse Operators: As a logistics manager, your role includes training and monitoring the performance of your workforce. To improve productivity, you need to train your workers and address safety hazards within the warehouse. Additionally, you oversee the workers to ensure they adhere to safe industrial practices.
- Implementing safety procedures: Storage environments require safety protocols to minimize accidents and injuries. As a logistics manager, you ensure that safety protocols are in place and that employees follow them. For example, you establish emergency procedures and train staff in handling hazardous materials.
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work environment
A typical workday for a Logistics Manager revolves around solving transportation issues and addressing customer concerns regarding goods. You perform these duties in warehouses, production halls, or manufacturing environments. The warehouse environment is climate-controlled and well-lit to keep products or raw materials in optimal condition and ready for shipment. In indoor office settings, you'll mainly work at a computer to prepare reports or update inventory management systems. Additionally, you may spend a significant amount of time outside the facility visiting clients or suppliers and negotiating shipping contracts.
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who are your colleagues?
As a Logistics Manager, you typically work in a warehouse or manufacturing environment. Your colleagues may include dispatchers, logistics coordinators, inventory managers, shift supervisors, warehouse operators, forklift drivers, and supply chain managers. You might also work closely with project directors and plant supervisors, as well as other specialists such as product managers, warehouse managers, and operations managers.
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work program
The work schedule of a Logistics Manager depends on their employment conditions. For example, if you work under a full-time contract, your activity typically involves around 40 hours per week. Since logistics is a 24/7 operation, you may need to work overtime, including weekends, to keep up with delivery schedules and shipping deadlines. Companies that require the physical presence of a Logistics Manager often operate in shifts. Part-time positions are rare in logistics management roles, but you may find some available job openings. Remote work is also possible if there’s no need to inspect goods upon arrival.
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career perspective
As a logistics manager, you have promising career prospects and growth opportunities in your field. If you're looking to advance, consider becoming a supply chain manager, overseeing all aspects of supply chain processes, including logistics. You could also pursue roles such as operations manager or product manager. Some logistics managers specialize in transportation or warehouse management.
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the advantages of finding a logistics manager job through randstad
Finding a logistics manager position through Randstad offers significant advantages such as:
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a wide variety of training and development opportunities
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a contact person, with experience, whom you can reach out to if needed.
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a wide range of opportunities
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temporary and permanent contracts
Are you looking for a permanent contract? A temporary job as a logistics manager is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent position. Every year, thousands of people secure permanent contracts with trusted employers thanks to temporary jobs found through Randstad. Plus, many companies also hire their permanent staff through Randstad!
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education and training required.
Logistics managers don't necessarily need formal academic qualifications, but the following credentials can significantly boost your chances of landing the role you want:
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university
A license in Procurement-Distribution-Logistics, Logistics Management, Transportation, or Industrial Engineering and Management provides you with a strong theoretical foundation and will increase your chances of securing a management role in the logistics field.
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apprenticeship
You can pursue an apprenticeship or an internship in supply chain or logistics and steadily build your career toward a position as a Logistics Manager.
skills and competencies.
A Logistics Manager will consider the following skills valuable:
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problem-solving skills
As the leader of the logistics team, you handle a variety of challenges, from daily delivery details to shipping restrictions and storage space limitations. Your exceptional problem-solving skills will help you manage time constraints and ensure issues are resolved before they impact the entire supply chain.
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organizational skills
Logistics Manager, you need strong organizational skills to keep up with delivery schedules and inventory management. Maintaining detailed records and reports that document warehouse activities makes your job easier to manage, as you can use these records as reference points.
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flexibility
Sometimes logistics activities fall behind schedule, and your role is to ensure that the delay doesn't impact other logistical events. Flexibility helps you adapt to changing situations and readjust your plans.
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leadership skills
As a Logistics Manager, you're a leader, and it's important to inspire and motivate your team. Additionally, understanding the value of each employee is crucial to ensure you're leveraging their skills effectively.
frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Frequently asked questions about logistics manager work.
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do logistics managers earn good salaries?
A career as a logistics manager is both rewarding and well-paying. You can expect an average compensation package of 8,000 to 9,000 RON net per month, including various benefits and bonuses.
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what does a logistics manager do?
A logistics manager oversees the procurement of raw materials and the distribution of finished products. They also maintain the inventory of stored goods.
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what skills are necessary for a logistics manager?
As a logistics manager, you need to be adaptable to changes in the schedule. Additionally, strong analytical skills and strategic thinking are essential for developing exceptional logistics programs.
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what is the highest-paying job in logistics?
The positions of Procurement Manager and Supply Chain Manager are the highest-paid roles in logistics and oversee the entire supply chain.
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How can I apply for a logistics manager role?
Applying for a logistics manager job is easy: create a profile on Randstad and browse our job listings for available positions in your area. Then, simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our career tips here! Want to stay updated on the latest trends and insights in the job market? Download the newest reports and research here.