What Does a Supply and Distribution Manager Do?
Are you a multi-tasking magician? Interested in a career that is challenging, well paid and full of opportunity? If so, a career in logistics could be the perfect way to bring out your best.
What is Logistics?
The world is now more interconnected than ever before, with our roads, seas and skies full of products being shipped just about everywhere – logistics is the art of making sure that everything gets where it needs to go, on time, on a budget, and problem-free. To give you a sense of the size and importance of this sector, the logistics industry has contributed a staggering $131.6 Billion to the Australian economy since 2013.
Daily tasks can include anything from creating streamlined processes for product purchasing and distribution through to maintaining up-to-date records of product orders, production times and their transportation status. Collaborating with staff, clients and stakeholders is another core responsibility, because maximising efficiency at every step of the supply chain is essential.
Those with the following skills and traits will do well in logistics;
- Critical thinking
- Creative problem-solving
- Leadership qualities
- High-level coordination
- Elite organisational skills
What Qualifications Do I Need?
Even the most naturally talented organiser will need the right education and qualifications to thrive in logistics, especially if you have your sights set on advancing your career quickly. Aiming high is certainly well worth the effort, especially considering that, in Australia, Logistics Managers currently earn an average of $106,000 P/A.
A great way to get started is by taking a Diploma of Logistics, as this will teach you about everything from industry demands and purchasing processes through to Supply Chain Management (SCM). Studying a Bachelor of Business with a focus on Logistics is another savvy move, as this will provide in-depth knowledge of strategic management, import and export processes, as well as the art of building and maintaining channel relationships.
The beauty of many logistics training programs is that you can often study them online, which means you can develop your skills and knowledge without quitting your day job just yet. If you have plans to travel with your career, ensure that any qualifications you undertake will be recognised in those destinations you have in mind.
“Even the most naturally talented organiser will need the right education and qualifications to thrive in logistics, especially if you have your sights set on advancing your career quickly.”
Where Will my Career Take Me?
The global logistics industry is currently in the midst of a massive boom, particularly in Asia, and the flow-on effect in Australia has been colossal, to say the least. According to a recent Australian Logistics Council report, there are now 1.2 million people working in logistics in Australia, and over the past five years, there has been a 60.5% increase in Logistics Manager positions.
Most roles involve working business hours and just about everything a logistics professional does is conducted indoors. You will get to work with people from all over the world, there are plenty of opportunities for advancement, and many jobs have the potential for living and working overseas as well.
A career in logistics can include working in roles such as the following;
- Logistics Analyst
- Depot Manager
- Warehouse Supervisor
- Purchasing and supply manager
- Site operations manager
- Customer service supervisor
If you think you have what it takes for a career in logistics, get started today! Simply compare your course options and choose the one that suits your style, personality, and career goals best.
