Detail-oriented Logistics Manager Job Description

The job description of a logistics manager is found in many industries and covers a wide range of responsibilities depending on the products and services supplied by the company. The logistics manager oversees tasks like purchasing, distribution, warehousing, forecasting and customer service.

Position Description

A logistics manager is in charge of all of the personnel working in the logistics department, the computer systems and software that are used to perform various tasks and the daily operations of the department.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Logistics Manager

• Ensures that transportation modes, frequency of transports and routing are as efficient and as cost effective as possible.
• Monitors the various supply chain performance measurement systems and looks for ways to make improvements.
• Creates and updates policies and procedures for all logistics activities with a special eye on safety.
• Implements special material flow management systems that meet or exceed the production requirements in each area.
• Trains newly hired shipping department employees to ensure that they understand their roles in the global logistics strategyof the company.
• Maintains a plethora of records and reports such as process documentation, customer service logs and safety records.
• Ensures that specific customer requirements are met including special internal reports and customized transportation metrics.
• Resolves customer complaints relating to transportation and other logistical issues.
• Assists in the selection of carriers based on qualifications and performance evaluations.
• Ensures compliance with all state and federal laws and regulations regarding logistics and makes sure carriers are also in compliance.
• Directs distribution center operations and stays within the fiscal year budget.
• Negotiates transportation services and rates with various carriers.
• Supervises the work of schedulers, planners, customer service representatives and other logistics specialists.
• Improves supply chain efficiency and sustainability by negotiating with suppliers and customers.
• Researches and recommends the purchase of automated systems and other improved technology that will increase the company’s bottom line.
• Looks for affordable ways to reduce the company’s environmental impact in regards to logistics activities.
• Analyzes the financial impact of proposed changes to the operations of the logistics department.
• Prepares an evacuation plan in the event of a disaster or other emergency.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Displays effective organizational, time management and multi-tasking skills.
• Possesses excellent complex problem solving and decision making abilities.
• Demonstrates strong active listening and reading comprehension skills.
• Has exceptional critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Exhibits excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Possesses strong negotiation and persuasion abilities.
• Has the ability to be an effective manager and leader.
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of computer systems and programs relevant to the industry.
• Exhibits good customer service skills.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, industrial engineering or logistics.
• Master’s degree in business administration.
• Experience working in a supply chain or logistics department.

Work Environment

• Works in a fast-paced, often stressful environment.
• Spends time between a private office space using computer technology to walking through warehouses and out on loading docks to directly oversee supervision of projects.
• Works normal business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, but has to work late into the evening and on weekends at times when working on a project with a tight deadline.

Salary

• The salary of a logistics manager can range from $50,000 to $90,000 depending on experience, education, the size of the company and the scope of work required by management.