Job Details
What is a logistics director and how to become one
Updated March 14, 2024
3 min readA logistics director is an individual responsible for overseeing the movement of goods from production to the user while minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency. They work to develop and implement strategies for transportation, warehousing, and delivery that meet customer needs and business goals. Logistics directors manage teams of professionals, including warehouse managers, transportation coordinators, and supply chain analysts. They collaborate with vendors, customers, and other stakeholders to ensure timely delivery and effective communication.How long does it takes to become a logistics director?
It takes approximately 10 to 12 years to become a logistics director. Here's an example timeline:Year 1-4: Earn a Bachelor's degree.Year 5-10: Gain 4-6 years of work experience in logistics or a related field.Year 11: Complete less than 1 month of on-site training.Year 12: Complete less than 1 month of on-job training.Constantly evolving field, providing new challenges and opportunities for growthConsLong work hours and high stress levels.Strict deadlines and high pressure to meet targets can lead to burnoutConstant need to adapt to changing market conditions and technological advancementsMay need to work nights, weekends, or holidays depending on the needs of the company.Newest jobs for Logistics Director in ,
Receive alerts for the newest job postings.SubscribeHow to become a logistics director in 8 steps:
Step 1:
Explore EducationStep 2:
Develop SkillsStep 3:
Complete Relevant TrainingStep 4:
Get CertificationsStep 5:
Research DutiesStep 6:
Get ExperienceStep 7:
Prepare Your ResumeStep 8:
Apply For JobsLogistics Director career paths
A logistics director's career path can lead to various roles such as operations director, operations vice president, and vice president. They can also pursue positions like supply chain director, supply chain vice president, and chief operating officer. Some logistics directors may choose to become executives, taking on roles like president, chief executive officer, and founder and chief executive officer. They may also consider positions like global director, managing director, and director of strategy. Some may also specialize in areas like supply chain management, purchasing, or materials management.Logistics ManagerAvg Salary $74,702Managing DirectorAvg Salary $129,690Supply Chain ManagerAvg Salary $100,414Senior Operations ManagerAvg Salary $126,839Avg Salary $53,902Program ManagerAvg Salary $96,084Warehouse ManagerAvg Salary $62,189Senior Logistics ManagerAvg Salary $109,588OwnerAvg Salary $90,334Material ManagerAvg Salary $96,125Show MoreLogistics Director9 yearsDirector Of DistributionAvg Salary $126,210Avg Salary $127,061Supply Chain DirectorAvg Salary $129,438Director Of Supply Chain ManagementAvg Salary $131,875Vice PresidentAvg Salary $158,637Director Of Supply Chain OperationsAvg Salary $117,026Global Supply Chain DirectorAvg Salary $139,768Director, ProcurementAvg Salary $140,058Deputy DirectorAvg Salary $100,190Supply Chain Vice PresidentAvg Salary $138,019Show MoreShareEmbed On Your WebsiteKey steps to become a logistics director
If you're interested in becoming a logistics director, you must consider how much education you need. Based on real logistics director resumes, 70.6% of logistics directors have a bachelor's degree. Regarding higher education levels, 15.5% of logistics directors have master's degrees. Even though most logistics directors have a college degree, it's possible to become one with only a high school degree or GED.Bachelor's70.6 %Master's15.5 %Associate8.7 %Start to develop specific logistics director skills
A logistics director's skills include the ability to lead and manage teams, implement cost-saving strategies, and optimize transportation and inventory management. They must also possess strong project management and process improvement skills, with the ability to develop and implement strategies that align with organizational goals. They must be able to streamline logistics functions and reduce errors, while maintaining regulatory compliance. Additionally, they must have strong relationships with strategic partners and suppliers, and possess excellent communication and leadership skills.SkillsPercentagesSupply Chain
16.06%Continuous Improvement
6.76%Logistics Operations
4.45%Customer Service
4.14%Project Management
4.00%Show moreComplete relevant logistics director training and internships
Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New logistics directors learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a logistics director based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real logistics director resumes.Gain additional logistics director certifications
Logistics director certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific logistics director certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.The most common certifications for logistics directors include Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) and Six Sigma Green Belt.Research logistics director duties and responsibilities
A logistics director's most important responsibilities include managing all operational processes and procedures, implementing logistics engineering design initiatives, and developing strategies for consolidating distribution centers. They also lead teams of procurement operations and strategic sourcing professionals, manage a team of direct reports, and supervise the complete material and operational cost control processes. Logistics directors also coordinate interdepartmental logistics activities, develop project management processes, and manage capital valued at over $617 million. They also managed the consolidation of supply-chain operations, implemented lean six sigma-generated improvements, and coordinated service requests.Lead the design and implantation of new MRP system improvements.Lead internal logistics team to gain ISO certification plus implement ISO specs for all 3rd party logistics providers.Lead project for developing standardize FDA approve method (GCP standard) for labeling, packaging and storing medication.Manage all relationships with freight payment, TMS software, outside storage, carriers, and all third party logistics providers.Generally, it takes 4-6 years to become a logistics director. The most common roles before becoming a logistics director include operations manager, logistics manager team lead and general manager.
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your logistics director resume.You can use Zippia's AI resume builder
to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a logistics director resume. You'll find resume tips
and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.Choose From 10+ Customizable Logistics Director Resume templates Build a professional Logistics Director resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Now it's time to start searching for a logistics director job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:Browse job boards for relevant postingsConsult your professional networkReach out to companies you're interested in working for directlyShare your story for a free salary report.The average Logistics Director salary in the United States is $108,828 per year or $52 per hour. Logistics director salaries range between $70,000 and $167,000 per year.How do logistics directors rate their job?
Working as a Logistics Director? Share your experience anonymously.The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.Previous:
Logistics Director Full Time Jobs
#J-18808-Ljbffr