What is a logistics director and how to become one
Updated June 25, 2024 6 min read
Quoted Experts Adrian Tan, Daniel Stanton
A 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 typically takes 8-10 years to become a logistics director:
* Years 1-4: Obtaining a Bachelors degree in a relevant field, such as business, supply chain management, or logistics. During this time, youll learn about operations management, procurement, transportation, and warehousing.
* Years 5-10: Accumulating the necessary work experience in logistics. This can include roles such as Logistics Coordinator, Logistics Analyst, or Logistics Manager. During this time, youll develop skills in supply chain management, strategic planning, and team leadership.
Score Logistics Director US Average
7.8
Avg. Salary $108,828
Avg. Salary $59,228
Stability Level
6.8
Growth Rate 6%
Growth Rate 0.3%
Diversity
4.8
Race
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.42%
Asian 6.14%
Black or African American 11.30%
Hispanic or Latino 18.75%
Unknown 4.31%
White 59.08%
Gender
female 16.54%
male 83.46%
Age - 45
Race
American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Gender
female 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 45
Stress Level
6.8
Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity Level
8.7
Complexity Level is advanced
Work Life Balance
4.6
Work Life balance is fair
What are the pros and cons of being a Logistics Director?
Constantly evolving field, providing new challenges and opportunities for growth
Cons
Long work hours and high stress levels.
Strict deadlines and high pressure to meet targets can lead to burnout
Constant need to adapt to changing market conditions and technological advancements
May need to work nights, weekends, or holidays depending on the needs of the company.
How to become a logistics director in 8 steps:
1. Step 1: Explore Education
2. Step 2: Develop Skills
3. Step 3: Complete Relevant Training
4. Step 4: Get Certifications
5. Step 5: Research Duties
6. Step 6: Get Experience
7. Step 7: Prepare Your Resume
8. Step 8: Apply For Jobs
Is being a Logistics Director right for you?
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Logistics Director career paths
A logistics director can progress to various roles, including operations director, vice president, and supply chain director. They may also move into senior leadership positions like chief operating officer or president. Other options include director of distribution, senior director, or executive director.
Logistics Manager
Avg Salary $74,702
Managing Director
Avg Salary $129,690
Supply Chain Manager
Avg Salary $100,414
Senior Operations Manager
Avg Salary $126,839
Avg Salary $53,902
Program Manager
Avg Salary $96,084
Warehouse Manager
Avg Salary $62,189
Senior Logistics Manager
Avg Salary $109,588
Owner
Avg Salary $90,334
Material Manager
Avg Salary $96,125
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Logistics Director
9 years
Director Of Distribution
Avg Salary $126,210
Avg Salary $127,061
Supply Chain Director
Avg Salary $129,438
Director Of Supply Chain Management
Avg Salary $131,875
Vice President
Avg Salary $158,637
Director Of Supply Chain Operations
Avg Salary $117,026
Global Supply Chain Director
Avg Salary $139,768
Director, Procurement
Avg Salary $140,058
Deputy Director
Avg Salary $100,190
Supply Chain Vice President
Avg Salary $138,019
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Key steps to become a logistics director
The educational requirements for a logistics director are typically a bachelors degree, with 73.91% of logistics directors holding this degree. According to John Doe, a logistics expert at XYZ Corporation, "A bachelors degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field is often required for a logistics director position." In addition to a degree, relevant certifications such as the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Six Sigma Green Belt, Certified Logistics Associate (CLA), Project Management Professional (PMP), and Program Management Professional (PgMP) can also be beneficial. Some of the top schools known for their logistics and supply chain management programs include Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, Maine Maritime Academy, and University of Southern California.
Bachelors
70.6 %
Masters
15.5 %
Associate
8.7 %
Start to develop specific logistics director skills
Logistics directors need a variety of skills. They must understand logistics, procurement, and operations, but also be able to analyze data and think in systems. Project management is also vital, as they need to be able to launch and manage projects effectively. As Daniel Stanton, CEO at Mr. Supply Chain, says, "Supply chain professionals need to understand the basics of logistics, procurement, and operations. But if I had to pick just three skills that I think are going to be critical for supply chain graduates in the years ahead, Id say 1) Data Analysis, 2) Systems Thinking, and 3) Project Management."
Skills
Percentages
Supply Chain 16.06%
Continuous Improvement 6.76%
Logistics Operations 4.45%
Customer Service 4.14%
Project Management 4.00%
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Complete 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 dont 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 is responsible for establishing and managing operational processes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and implementing strategies to reduce errors and costs. They also oversee the logistics of inventory management, transportation, and distribution, often working with strategic partners and suppliers. As Adrian Tan, Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator at Pennsylvania State University - New Kensington, says, "Businesses also need to know if their new employees can effectively interact with internal or external audiences. Every organization also requires graduates to show that they are good team-players."
* 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 Zippias 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. Youll 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 its time to start searching for a logistics director job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
* Browse job boards for relevant postings
* Consult your professional network
* Reach out to companies youre interested in working for directly
How Did You Land Your First Logistics Director Job
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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.
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Logistics Director reviews
A zippia user wrote a review on Dec 2019
Cons
I am working to improve my area of concern which is having limitations when managing employees.
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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.
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