Logistics Service Providers

Not all companies choose to operate their logistics 'in-house'. Many prefer to 'outsource', not only because it can save tying up capital, but also because a third-party provider, managing the supply-chain for a number of companies, can offer specialised knowledge and expertise. Outsourcing gives opportunities for synergies, reduced overheads and increased efficiencies - all potentially leading to a better balance of service and costs.

Third-party logistics is a growth market, encompassing a range of activities that can serve all, or part of, a company's supply-chain. Working with a third-party logistics provider means working in a totally customer-focused environment. Whether you work on a dedicated contract or in a multi-user, multi-customer role, overcoming obstacles to customer satisfaction will be your main driver. It's a dynamic environment, but this means opportunities to move around the sector, building your experience in diverse roles and projects.

If you can communicate well at all levels, are not afraid of hard work, and enjoy a challenge, then third-party logistics may well be for you.

Consultancy

Following a thorough grounding in operational management or supply-chain planning, there will be opportunities to move into consultancy either as part of an in-house team or to join a specialist external consultancy, advising clients, in the UK and internationally, on improving their supply-chains. It's an area that gives practitioners new skills and a deeper understanding and broader perspective of logistics based on a contrasting client needs.

After gaining experience as consultants, those who wish to return to an operational role can aspire to top-level jobs in logistics.

Date: 2014-12-22; view: 993