If you want things to run smoothly at your company, you need to hire a competent and experienced Logistics manager. Logistics Managers oversee warehouse, inventory control, material handling, customer service, transportation, and planning workers. Finding an excellent Logistics Manager is not an easy task, and their responsibilities vary from one company to another.

We’ve put together the top 5 skills needed for a quality Logistics Manager:

  1. An Understanding of Economics

Logistics Managers don’t have to have an advanced degree in mathematics or economics, but they should have an analytical mind and a strong understanding of economics. They need to focus on what lies ahead and to some extent, be able to predict it. This can only be possible with a thorough understanding of the market dynamics relating to your industry and your company. Several universities offer quality master’s degree programs in data science. These programs can be beneficial to be a top Logistics Manager.

  1. The Ultimate Team Players

Good Logistics Managers need to be well-rounded employees who get along with every member of the team. They cultivate strong relationships along the entire supply chain. They build strong and honest relationships with their suppliers and vendors. These efforts help to keep their operations moving seamlessly. One lousy relationship can ruin the entire supply chain and cause failure.

  1. They Understand the Supply Chain Thoroughly

Logistics Managers need to be able to see the big picture of the supply chain you are working within. An understanding of the product’s journey from start to end is necessary. When Logistics Managers inheritably understand the supply chain, they better understand the risks and can forecast more efficiently. A quality Logistics Manager will do research on other companies’ processes, and benchmark on their best supply chain practices.

For example, Dell’s revolutionary computer supply chain approach involved making each computer based on a specific customer order, then shipping the computer directly to the customer. As a result, Dell was able to avoid having large computer inventories sitting in warehouses and retail stores, which saved millions of dollars.  This would not have been possible without an excellent Logistics Manager.

  1. They Make Decisions FAST

A Logistics Manager must be able to make good decisions FAST. There are always unforeseen circumstances in the supply chain industry, so it’s an important skill to have. Logistics Managers must make crucial strategic level decisions to manage uncertainty, customer service, and cost. There is not much room for error, so they must be confident in their knowledge and instincts.

  1. They Must Be Organized

Logistics Managers must be extremely organized so they can keep track of when, where, and how goods are being produced and shipped. They should be proficient with computers and technology so they can stay on top of transportation, inventory, warehousing and delivery demands. Paying attention to small details is very important as a Logistics Manager.  They must come up with systems that can repeatedly be executed while being aware of what’s happening during the entire process.

Is your business in need of a trusted courier service? Contact Econo-Courier today to speak with a friendly member of the staff about your delivery needs. The office can be reached at 800-526-9094.