What are the most sought-after professional profiles in logistics?

Currently, the logistics and transportation sector is becoming quite relevant due to the growth of e-commerce. In addition to the fact that in Spain it is one of the most important sectors of the economy for having a GDP of 10% and managing more than 500 thousand shipments per year.

Looking at this panorama, it can be stated that it is an industry that employs more than 950,000 people, a very attractive figure for people who wish to start or change their professional career. But, specifically, what are the professional profiles in logistics, and is any specific training required to be able to exercise these professions?

If you are interested in knowing the details of the most in-demand logistics professional profiles, take a look!

Warehouse handler

Undoubtedly, this is the most sought-after profile in the logistics sector. Their tasks are based on assisting in the loading and unloading of trucks, checking and ordering merchandise, controlling the stock of products, preparing them and keeping the warehouse register up to date.

These professional logistics profiles require a minimum of compulsory secondary education. However, there are specialized training courses such as forklift or warehouse handler that help to have a solid foundation for the job performance and improve the curriculum. Not to mention the physical ability to move heavy objects from one place to another. cursos de formación especializados como la de carretillero o la de mozo de almacén que ayuda a tener una base sólida para el desempeño del trabajo y mejoran el currículum. Sin olvidar que se debe poseer la capacidad física para mover objetos pesados de un lugar a otro.

Forklift operator

The second most sought-after profile in the sector is the warehouse foreman. These are people who handle forklifts and are responsible for receiving, placing heavy packages on pallets and preparing orders and packaging.

Despite what the name suggests, the professional is not only focused on a specific task. In the case of forklift operators, they perform other complementary tasks such as reviewing delivery notes. In order to access this position, it is required to have passed the ESO and to undergo forklift training to be able to handle the machinery.

Delivery person

This is probably one of the professional logistics profiles that has gained much relevance in recent years due to the considerable growth of e-commerce. The delivery driver is in charge of getting the goods to their destination, as well as planning the most efficient schedules and routes. This task can be much easier if a route optimizer is used.

In addition to that, he also organizes the merchandise in his van and communicates directly with customers, having a certain profile of a salesman. To be able to work as such, you need a type B driver's license, own your own van and have all the documentation in order to be self-employed.

Warehouse Manager

Within management positions, this is one of the most sought-after professional profiles in logistics. Typical tasks include coordinating incoming and outgoing goods, controlling warehousing and supervising the preparation and loading of vehicles.

As you can see, this is a responsible position where the main objective is to minimize errors and maintain inventory control. A degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or similar is usually required for this job. In addition to having technical knowledge of warehouse management software and databases.

Logistics Administrator

This is one of the logistics professional profiles most influenced by the digital transformation of the industry due to their ability to manage and plan various logistics processes. Their tasks include organizing packages, monitoring stock, scheduling shifts for vehicles and carriers, preparing shipment documentation and accurate order tracking.

As you have seen, a logistics administrator needs to have knowledge of logistics and transportation management software. Not to mention the usual administrator skills such as office automation and basic accounting. For this, a degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration or similar is required.

Procurement Manager

This is a key member of the team to make logistics operations profitable, because its main mission is to choose and negotiate the best prices with the company's suppliers, agree on supply conditions, control inventory and have the necessary documentation ready.

This profession undoubtedly has a business profile with some administrative tasks and acts in accordance with the company's values and for the benefit of the company. For example, if they are committed to sustainability, their tasks will consist of finding green suppliers. To be able to access this position they recommend having a degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or similar, apart from knowing how to handle supplier and third party management software.

Supply Chain Manager

This is a somewhat unknown profession until now, as it stands out for having the highest professional projection and being well remunerated. These specialists are in charge of managing and organizing all the procurement, production and distribution of goods of a company for its customers.

This is one of the most important professional profiles in the sector because they are in charge of managing the company's entire supply chain, from raw materials to last-mile distribution to the end customer.  Another of their functions is to supervise and train personnel, especially when it comes to implementing new management software.

The requirements to become a Supply Chain Manager are to have a degree in Logistics, Supply Chain or similar and to have technical knowledge of software such as SAP and ERP. It is possible that in some cases a master's degree in Supply Chain Management is required.

Conclusions

It is clear that the logistics and transportation sector is booming and hence more and more specialized profiles are required in each of the supply chain functions. In addition to the fact that knowledge of various specific software is often requested due to the increasing digitization of the industry, which turns out to be very necessary.

At Hedyla, we are attentive to the changes and demands of the logistics industry, therefore, we offer advice on the application of such digital tools.