Discover what makes this job in logistics exciting and rewarding in our logistics manager job guide!

What is a logistics manager?

The logistics manager oversees all things to do with the merchandise logistics flow for a company. This includes the warehousing, storage, packaging, handling, transportation and distribution of goods. They are responsible for planning, organizing, coordinating and controlling all of a company's logistics operations.

Their main objective is to ensure optimal management of product flows, from procurement to final distribution. They ensure that logistics processes are efficient and in line with company and customer requirements. So it's a big responsibility!

What are the duties and responsibilities of a logistics manager?

The logistics manager carries out a variety of tasks that revolve around the following duties. 

Designing and implementing a flow management policy.

The logistics manager is responsible for developing a goods flow management policy, defining clear procedures and guidelines to ensure the efficient flow of products through the supply chain. This involves analyzing flow requirements, designing inventory management and operations planning processes, and implementing computerized systems to track and control the flow of goods.

Optimizing the flow of goods

Works to optimize the flow of goods by identifying bottlenecks and proposing solutions to resolve them. This may involve improving production processes (push/pull strategy, for example), rationalizing transport routes, or implementing more efficient warehouse management systems.

Optimizing the transport of goods

The logistics manager is responsible for optimizing the transportation of goods, choosing the most appropriate modes of transport based on time, cost and volume requirements. This can include consolidating shipments, choosing the most cost-effective carriers and routes, and even managing transport contracts.

Managing a multi-disciplinary team

He is responsible for leading and coordinating a multidisciplinary team of logistics professionals, including production planners, inventory managers, transport coordinators, etc. They must be able to motivate their team, define clear objectives and coordinate everyone's efforts to achieve the goals set.

Continuously improving the logistics system

The logistics manager works constantly to improve the company's logistics system by identifying optimization opportunities and proposing innovative solutions. This may involve adopting new technologies, automating processes, or implementing best management practices. The logistics coordinator assists him in these tasks.

Getting results in terms of reliability, delivery and costs

Finally, the logistics manager is assessed on his or her ability to achieve tangible results in terms of delivery reliability, meeting deadlines, and controlling logistics costs. This involves closely monitoring operational performance, analyzing data and performance indicators, and making adjustments where necessary to ensure supply chain efficiency and profitability.

In short, the logistics manager coordinates an entire team in the organization, management and optimization of flows, with the priority objective of reducing inventories, lead times and therefore, by extension, costs, as much as possible.

To summarize, the logistics manager coordinates an entire team, being responsible for the organization, management and optimization of workflows with the main aim of reducing supplies, delays and costs.

Key skills for a logistics manager

A logistics manager’s role consists of directing and planning the circulation of merchandise, aiming to make this as productive as possible. To do this, they must be able to anticipate company needs and have good organization and negotiation skills. Logistics managers need to be fully conversant with transport and international trade regulations (incoterms, customs rules, etc.).

To be a great team manager, they will also need to demonstrate good listening and leadership skills. They also have to put their human resources knowledge to good use by effectively distributing tasks. 

The ability to use specialized supply chain management software (such as inventory management systems, enterprise resource planning systems - ERP, shipment tracking tools, etc.) as well as advanced Excel skills for data analysis.

In addition to this, since they may well work in the international transport sector, they must be able to communicate in English and have a good level of understanding of business and international law. They may even work as an international relations advisor between the border authorities and insurance companies from time to time. Their knowledge of English and these laws must therefore be very strong, if not perfect. 

What personal qualities should a logistics manager have?

As the linchpin of the company, the logistics manager must be agile enough to adapt to the needs of each business partner. They could end up talking to transporters, governing bodies and shippers all in the same day. 

To work successfully, the logistics manager must possess certain analytical and customer relations qualities and be prepared to act at any moment.

Being at the heart of all operations, they must be able to deal with the management team, at the same time as overseeing production and the running of the warehouse. Just like an orchestra conductor, they carefully lead the pack, implementing different tools to reach their goals and optimize costs, all while maintaining the business site’s security.     

In summary, a logistics manager must possess the following qualities:

• Autonomy
• Responsibility 
• Communication
• Flexibility and adaptability 
• Computing
• Responsiveness 

For more information about how to show off your skills in an interview, feel free to consult our online resources.

Logistics manager training requirements

To apply for a logistics manager position, you need to have a degree in international business accompanied by a logistics specialism. An engineering background is also considered by certain businesses. Usually, you would have studied for about 3-5 years. 

One way to do it is to complete a DCS (Diploma of Collegial Studies) in transport logistics or general logistics. These two 3-year courses offer a complete curriculum combining both the theoretical and practical sides. Be aware that a simple ACS (Attestation of Collegial Studies) won’t be enough to qualify for a job as a logistics manager in Quebec.

Salary of a logistics manager

The starting salary for a logistics manager is between $38,000 and $45,000. This salary can double by the end of your career, reaching numbers like $90,000 a year. 

Find a logistics manager job with Fed Supply

The logistics manager is a crucial position, taking charge of the organization and management of merchandise. It is as the heart of negotiations, acting as an intermediary between internal staff and external partners. 

To land the logistics manager job in the company you're looking for, don't hesitate to enlist the help of a logistics recruitment agency like Fed Supply. You can even view our list of job offers now on our website.