What Does a Chief Logistics Officer Do?
Chief logistics officers oversee the operations for companies. Managing the transfer of goods and services, logistics officers create the strategy used by companies to ensure they keep sufficient inventory, staff and vendors required to manage business operations efficiently.
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Logistics Management
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According to the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, logistics management includes the planning, implementation and control of goods and services between a point of origin and a point of consumption. The job can impact inbound and outbound transportation management, fleet management, warehousing, materials handling and order fulfillment. Professionals in logistics management are involved in all levels of planning, including strategy, operation and tactical application of plans, and their work directly impacts marketing, sales, manufacturing, finance and information technology.
Chief Logistics Officer Function
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As chief logistics officer, you will lead and manage all logistics support for your company. Specific activities will include developing, preparing and implementing logistics-support plans, including forecasting, supply schedules and operational issues that may arise during the transfer of goods and services. You will serve as the principal liaison between your company and suppliers and implement strategy and tools to ensure the coordination of materials and goods follows a streamlined process that is as error-free as possible. Finally, you will advise senior management on staffing levels and inventory, suggesting changes that may be needed to meet the requirements of the established logistics strategy.
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Purchasing Agent
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A key area of logistics planning is selecting vendors and managing inventory of products and coming into the company. Chief logistics officers can begin their career in purchasing or buying, moving through management of purchasing, supplies or materials. For purchasing, professional certification is an asset. The Institute of Supply Management offers certified purchasing manager (CPM) designation to demonstrate proficiency in purchasing practice. The American Purchasing Society offers additional certification programs including the certified purchasing professional (CPP) and professional purchasing manager (CPPM) designations. These certifications are available after you have completed undergraduate and graduate coursework in business management, engineering or logistics.
Qualifications
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To qualify for a career as chief logistics officer, you will possess a master's degree in logistics, business administration, engineering or related business study. Undergraduate study should prepare you for advanced coursework and include study geared toward business progress. At the executive level, you will need to demonstrate at least 10 years of experience in managing logistic operations for a large operation. Professional certifications in purchasing or transportation and logistics can also enhance your desirability as a candidate. The American Society of Transportation and Logistics offers certification for professionals in logistics at the undergraduate level.
Compensation
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Careers in logistics management provide excellent employment prospects according to the 2007 Mercer Benchmark Database for Logistics and Supply Chain Positions report. Companies, according to the report, are making greater efforts to streamline and optimize operations to better manage costs, providing good opportunity for supply-chain professionals skilled and educated in operational efficiency. While supply-chain management average salary was reported at $45,771 as of 2007, logistic management executives reported an annual salary of $198,000.
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