In the logistics and transport sector, the skills in demand and the most sought-after professional figures vary depending on the specific needs of the company and the evolution of the sector. Our team has identified a number of key skills and roles that are growing rapidly and which we will explore in more detail in this article.

What is logistics?

When we talk about logistics, we refer to the efficient planning, organisation, control and execution of material, product and information flows within a company or supply chain. This field manages all activities involved in the movement and management of goods, from the point of origin to the point of destination, with the aim of optimising resources and minimising costs.

Logistics deals with various activities that include: 

• Inventory Management
• Production planning
• Transport and distribution of products
  

A key aspect of logistics is efficiency: trying to ensure that goods are delivered as quickly, cheaply and reliably as possible. This discipline has become increasingly important in business because it contributes significantly to the competitiveness of companies, enabling them to better respond to customer needs and adapt to market changes.

What does it mean to work in the logistics sector?

Working in logistics involves being involved in the various activities related to the organisation and efficient movement of goods, materials and information within a company or along the supply chain. This sector offers a wide range of roles and responsibilities, each of which plays a key role in managing goods and optimising workflows.

In an ever-changing industry such as logistics, it is essential to be prepared for continuous updating, adaptation to new technologies and industry best practices.

How has the logistics sector evolved?

The logistics sector has evolved significantly over the years, with changes and innovations that have radically transformed supply chain operations and management dynamics.

The increase in efficiency and reduction of errors in logistics operations is mainly due to the implementation of advanced technologies such as:

• Automated inventory management systems
• Goods tracking software
• Using drones and robotics in warehouses
• Adoption of supply chain management systems based on artificial intelligence and machine learning

The rise of international trade and the advent of e-commerce have expanded the scope of logistics operations, requiring greater complexity and flexibility in supply chains to meet the demands of a global market. There has been an increasing focus on environmental sustainability, with a focus on greener practices and technologies to reduce environmental impact.

The industry has increasingly focused on customer satisfaction, adopting strategies capable of 

• Improving delivery times
• Increasing transparency in the traceability of shipments
• Offering more flexible delivery services to adapt to consumer needs

Companies have begun to strengthen collaboration with supply chain partners, with greater integration and information sharing to improve visibility and overall efficiency of operations.

These changes have made the logistics sector more efficient, more customer-oriented and better able to adapt to changing market needs. Technological evolution together with the focus on sustainability and a flawless customer experience will continue to shape the future of this industry.

Logistics 4.0 and Talent 4.0

When we talk about logistics 4.0, we refer to what represents the evolution of the sector through the adoption of innovative processes. In parallel, talents 4.0 are the set of skills and characteristics required to operate effectively in an increasingly technological working environment.

In logistics 4.0, emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), automation, robotics, blockchain and data analytics are being integrated to optimise supply chain management.

The most in-demand skills for working in logistics

Although technology is increasingly present in the logistics sector, one should not make the mistake of believing that the workforce is not as necessary as it once was. In this day and age, even though the roles differ from those considered traditional, there is a particular need to recruit professionals who can best govern and manage precisely these new technologies.

The skills required can vary greatly, but we have listed below the most common ones that every company in the sector cannot do without. 

• Knowledge of emerging technologies: familiarity with the use of advanced software for inventory management, product tracking and shipment management.
• Organisational and planning skills: ability to organise warehouse activities, manage inventories, plan shipments and coordinate workflows efficiently to optimise the supply chain.
• Knowledge of logistics processes: understanding the concepts of supply chain management, transport, inventory management and shipping.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills: ability to analyse data to identify inefficiencies, develop solutions and make data-driven decisions to improve logistics processes.
• Adaptability and flexibility: it is important to be flexible and adaptable to changes in technology, market demands and new working methods.
• Communication and collaboration skills: ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, suppliers and customers. Collaboration is essential to successfully manage logistics operations involving multiple professionals.
• Stress management and time management: the ability to work in a dynamic environment, handle pressure and meet deadlines.
• Regulatory and legislative knowledge: understanding regulations and laws related to transport and logistics helps avoid legal problems and ensures that you operate in compliance with current regulations.
• Customer orientation: putting the customer at the centre of activities to ensure timely delivery and a flawless product experience.

Working in logistics: the most sought-after professionals

Below we list the key professional figures in the logistics sector.

• Supply chain manager: coordinates the purchase of raw materials, production and distribution of products.
• Logistician: plans and executes logistics activities, managing inventories, coordinating transport and optimising warehouse operations.
• Distribution specialist: manages and optimises distribution operations, including transport management and delivery planning.
• Logistics analyst: analyses data on logistics activities to identify inefficiencies, improve processes and develop more effective strategies.
• Warehouse co-ordinator: manages the day-to-day operations of the warehouse, including goods receipt, storage, item picking and dispatch.
• Transport manager: manages transport activities, coordinating delivery operations and ensuring that goods are transported efficiently and on time.
• Purchasing manager: manages the purchase of materials and products, developing relationships with suppliers and ensuring quality and continuous availability of the necessary resources.
• Logistics Systems Specialist: manages the systems and technologies used in logistics operations.
• Logistics security and risk management expert: deals with risk management, developing and implementing appropriate security policies and procedures.

Do you need to hire new professionals for your logistics business? We’ll take care of it!

Kilpatrick’s team provides specialised recruiting services in the logistics and transport sector, ensuring that you find and hire the best talent to meet your company’s needs. Contact us to find out how we can work together to recruit professionals who best match the required skills and corporate culture of your business.