Although there are thousands of people in the UK working in the field of logistics, jobs in the industry rarely seem to be high on the list when it comes to giving careers advice, particularly to young people. It’s difficult to pinpoint a single reason for this, but it may have its roots in the fact that historically, at least, many entered the field at ground level as drivers, forklift operators or other warehouse roles, before working their way up in the company. That career path is still possible today, but there are also other opportunities in dozens of different logistics roles at all levels, with excellent potential for career advancement.

Benefits of a career in logistics

There are entry points for all educational levels

We’ve already mentioned that logistics is a great career to get in at on the ground level, in roles such as truck driver, warehouse operator, forklift driver or customer service. But there are also supervisory roles, management roles, and more specialised jobs such as logistics analysts and planning managers. Some roles may require a logistics-related qualification, while others may need other qualifications such as a degree in business management.

Excellent earning potential

Even entry-level jobs in logistics have the potential to pay well. While you may not need a degree to be a truck driver, it can be hard work and requires commitment and professionalism. There is currently a shortage of professional drivers in the UK, and that helps drive wage growth as there is competition between logistics providers to hire drivers. At other levels, too, factors such as the explosion in e-commerce and ever-more complex supply chains mean that there is high demand for logistics professionals with the right skills.

Many opportunities for advancement

Logistics offers great opportunities for promotion and advancement, both within the same field – for example, from warehouse operator to supervisor to manager – and to different roles and specialisations. Many logistics employers have schemes to help employees move to different roles, either through on-the-job training or by supporting employees who want to gain a degree or vocational qualification.

Not just jobs for the boys

While logistics has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, more recent years have seen a plethora of opportunities open up for women who want to work in the field. Whether you want to work in a “traditionally male” role such as a truck driver or warehouse worker, or move into a more specialised logistics or supply chain management role, gender needn’t be a barrier to entering the field of logistics in the 21st century.

Develop your personal and professional skillset

The business of logistics is by its nature complex, and all the parts have to work together to help supply chains flow efficiently. Jobs within logistics often have a high degree of interaction, with people in other roles in your company, with clients, and others. That means endless opportunities to learn more about the various aspects of logistics, to network, and to develop other important interpersonal, communication and business skills.

Careers in logistics

There’s an unfair perception that a job in “logistics” means driving a truck or a forklift, or working as a stock handler in a warehouse. Those roles certainly exist – as do the supervisory and management roles above them – but that’s only scratching the surface when it comes to the wide range of careers available in logistics. Others include supply chain specialists and coordinators, a whole slew of roles relating to forecasting and planning, purchasing and procurement specialists, inventory management, transport planning and coordination, and of course vital customer service roles to manage client interactions. Some of these roles may not require formal qualifications, but many will be looking for candidates with either a specific degree in logistics and supply chain management (or a similar subject) or another type of degree or vocational qualification.

Qualifications and key skills

Many UK universities and colleges offer degrees in subjects such as Logistics and Supply Chain Management, at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, and these can be excellent for launching a career in the field. Some roles may require other specific types of qualification, such as a degree in Business and Management, while others still may accept graduates with any type of degree.

For those without a university or college degree, many logistics companies offer apprenticeships that will allow you to learn the relevant skills on the job.

More broadly, logistics firms tend to look for candidates who are flexible and possess good analytical skills, and who are good at making decisions. In logistics it’s important that every aspect of the process flows smoothly and efficiently, so reliability is a must, while many roles also require good people skills and an ability to communicate well.

Looking for work?

At Hemisphere Freight we have years of experience in providing valuable logistics solutions to clients all over the globe. It goes without saying that we think a career in logistics is worth pursuing – we wouldn’t be here if we didn’t! If you think a career in logistics is right for you, keep an eye on our website for the latest job opportunities, or feel free to get in touch with a copy of your CV.