The logistics managers role is to coordinate the processes to ensure that the companies customers, be they suppliers of raw materials, retailers, consumers or manufacturers are satisfied. This ensures their future loyalty and business as well as the effective running of the supply chain.
Particular attention must be paid to legislative issues, environmental issues and pressures as well as the mode of transport, costs, warehousing and distribution center management. Every area is dependent on the other to ensure that the products leave the gates timeously, are received on time and in the right condition to ensure that both the company and the customer’s processes are not interrupted.
Logistics management is a critical function within any organization that bears a lot of responsibility. Forecasting and anticipating customers needs and buying patterns effectively is a key function of the logistics and supply chain manager. Ensuring that stock levels are adjusted for seasonal requirements, optimizing stock levels, monitoring service quality and having a finger on the pulse of the order cycle are all critically important to the LSCM.
The responsibilities are enormous and a good LSCM will need to be able to analyze large amounts of data, from customer needs and customer satisfaction, to weather reports and vehicle maintenance schedules.
Effective Logistics and supply chain managers know their customers well, are able to negotiate with customers as well as suppliers and will play an integral part in the negotiation of new contracts.
Studying Logistics and supply chain management is a step in the right direction, whether you already have a qualification or are considering career opportunities. Never before has it been more important for companies to streamline the supply chain. Logistics and supply chain managers are critical for competitive advantage and customer satisfaction.