Why a career in logistics could be for you

Every company and every individual uses logistics in some capacity, making it a really important sector and an exciting field to get into. There’s scope to excel your career into a global remit, fast track into managerial roles quicker than in other industries, and work with some huge household brands that are leading the digital revolution. So, if you're newly graduated and trying to figure out your next career move, or if you’re thinking about a career change this year, a career in logistics has much to offer. 

Here’s just some of the reasons why a career in logistics could be for you. 

Talent shortages mean higher salaries 

As shown in our most recent Logistics Salary and Skills Guide, there were 9,500 logistics roles with 2,500 companies advertising over a 3-month period. The sector is the busiest we have ever seen it – but the market is incredibly candidate-short. This means that companies are competing for new talent by offering high salaries and desirable benefits packages to boot. 

Dean Rose, Director at Michael Page Logistics, offered some advice to professionals: 

As a logistics candidate, you can use this talent shortage to your advantage. Companies across the UK are desperate to attract and retain top talent, and are offering competitive benefits and salary packages to make it happen.

Local, national and international opportunities 

Working in logistics will offer the potential to join national and international companies, and get your foot in the door at some huge household brands. Once you’re in, you can then look at how and where you want to specialise within the sector, whether that's transport management, warehouse management, freight forwarding  or network design for example. 

Ben Lyons, Senior Operating Director for Michael Page Logistics, said: 

For those with the right skills and drive to excel, the logistics industry can provide a global career path full of great opportunities. Here at Michael Page Logistics, we work with a range of global 3PLs, blue chip brands right through to small SMEs. Landing an opportunity at a big company like this straight out of university or early on in your career will set you up for career success in the long run.

Tech trends are changing the sector 

In recent years, technology trends have turned the logistics sector on its head, creating new and exciting job roles. Since the pandemic, digital technology adoption has accelerated tenfold, meaning there's now far more scope to get involved in exciting and innovative projects and companies.

In a previous article on tech trends reshaping the logistics sector, Dean said: “Whether it’s drone deliveries, driverless vehicles, AR picking, or an increase in AI – we know that the logistics landscape is evolving constantly.” This continually changing sector is having to adapt both regionally and internationally, businesses needing new trends, and skills to keep up. Dean added, “In such an exciting, growing industry, candidates with a growth mindset and the ability to learn quickly are the ones standing out to employers.” 

Equal opportunities

The logistics sector has long been seen as a male-dominated space, despite efforts to change this. However, opportunities continue to grow year on year for female talent. In a recent Q&A, our Laura Frost, Business Manager at Michael Page Logistics, shared her insights into the current state of diversity in the logistics landscape, what businesses can be doing to support female talent, and more. 

When asked which roles in logistics are more suited to women, Laura said: 

All roles within the logistics industry are open to and suitable for all regardless of gender. Naturally, different circumstances can add complexities, for example primary carers of children or those with dependents may find it difficult to juggle shift work – which many logistics roles are likely to be. 

That said, lots of companies have implemented new shift patterns and part-time working such as ‘weekend shifts’, and adapted hours to work around caring responsibilities. This type of flexibility could open up opportunities for families and unlock potential candidates who may have once thought that a career in logistics couldn’t work for them.

What skills do you need?

Many logistics jobs are open to all graduates, although top employers will be looking for graduates with a specific degree in logistics or supply chain management. Other core skills and traits that are needed to excel, include: 

  • Inquisitiveness 
  • Bring data-driven - able to understand patterns and trends 
  • Problem solving
  • Negotiation skills 
  • Communication 

Individuals looking to enter into the logistics sector need to have the ability to understand the increasingly complex technical aspects of supply chains, provide solutions, and then communicate these to non-technical colleagues or customers in a clear way. 

If a career in logistics sounds right for you, then we’re here to help. Start by submitting your CV today and one of our expert recruitment consultants will be in touch to help you find your next dream role. 

Submit CV

Are you earning what you're truly worth?

Compare your salary to industry standards with our expert guides.

Download our salary guide

Submit your CV

If you're looking for your next career move, we can help.

Submit your CV today

Take our quiz

Find out what your next career should be with our quick and easy quiz.

Take our quiz: Steer your career