What does a logistics operations manager do?
A Logistics Operations Manager is responsible for supervising the distribution processes and overseeing the supply chain management to ensure that the deliveries are done timely and accurately. Logistics Operations Managers strategize on cost-reduction techniques by negotiating with trusted suppliers and vendors of high-quality materials. They also manage the adequacy of supply inventories and inspect the quality of merchandise before shipment. A Logistics Operations Manager must have excellent communication skills, especially in handling customers' inquiries and concerns and resolving delays.
Logistics operations manager responsibilities
Here are examples of responsibilities from real logistics operations manager resumes:
- Lead consortium-based RFP for latter contract across multiple corporations.
- Manage and facilitate the day-to-day operations of a 72-truck general commodities LTL transportation company and warehouse complex.
- Manage payroll distribution process ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and confidentiality to protect client's privacy and prevent liability of exposure.
- Implement KanBan pull system, which significantly improve shop floor control.
- Develop short and long term planning strategies; integrate customer production schedules to enhance ERP.
- Implement KanBan systems, JIT system for select suppliers, and an inventory tracking system.
- Maintain service level requirements utilizing WMS throughout the distribution process, from vendors to distribution centers, to stores.
- Contact and arrange return transportation with client, using client specifications, AS9100, ISO 9001 and U.S. Customs requirements.
- Review LTL lifting performance and cost per weight, trucking service performance, contract negotiation with transportation companies and contract management.
- Generate purchase orders for customer fulfillment purposes maintaining value and quality for at bottom line cost for optimum profitability using ERP.
- Develop and implement all training materials for functional and product usage both internally and externally.
- Enable coordinators to understand system complexities, correct system errors and maintain continuity of business operations.
- Evaluate manufacturing operations process, checking material temperatures, monitoring production goals, and meeting competitive deadlines.
- Assist in the formulation of company business plans and directing/coordinating activities of personnel engage in acquiring and distributing materials.
- Design company website, PowerPoint presentation, brochure, profile, machinery list & factory production capacity information for marketing purposes.
Logistics operations manager skills and personality traits
We calculated that 10% of Logistics Operations Managers are proficient in Supply Chain, Logistics Operations, and Operational Procedures. They’re also known for soft skills such as Communication skills, Leadership skills, and Management skills.
We break down the percentage of Logistics Operations Managers that have these skills listed on their resume here:
- Supply Chain, 10%
Spearheaded reorganization of supply chain operations and implemented new standards and continuous improvements to refine inventory management and supply chain operations.
- Logistics Operations, 8%
Obtained MBA during tenure in this role, effectively balancing degree attainment initiative with successful leadership of on-site logistics operation.
- Operational Procedures, 8%
Monitor ministry policies and developed new operational procedures as needed for ministry in order to increase efficiency.
- Customer Service, 7%
Developed 2 organizational departments to manage the fueling business comprised of Logistics, Customer Service, Billing and Validations.
- Process Improvement, 6%
Facilitate the strategic planning, process improvement and technical documentation of all logistical execution, standard operating procedures and compliance.
- Continuous Improvement, 4%
Developed strategy for continuous improvement and managed business relationships with 3rd party distribution home delivery carriers.
"supply chain," "logistics operations," and "operational procedures" are among the most common skills that logistics operations managers use at work. You can find even more logistics operations manager responsibilities below, including:
Communication skills. One of the key soft skills for a logistics operations manager to have is communication skills. You can see how this relates to what logistics operations managers do because "top executives must be able to convey information clearly and persuasively." Additionally, a logistics operations manager resume shows how logistics operations managers use communication skills: "maintained excellence in the areas of: operational security, communications management, logistics management, maintenance and property accountability. "
Leadership skills. Another soft skill that's essential for fulfilling logistics operations manager duties is leadership skills. The role rewards competence in this skill because "top executives must be able to shape and direct an organization by coordinating policies, people, and resources." According to a logistics operations manager resume, here's how logistics operations managers can utilize leadership skills in their job responsibilities: "provided leadership and direction of staff; identifying areas in need of improvement and implementing corrective actions when necessary. "
Problem-solving skills. For certain logistics operations manager responsibilities to be completed, the job requires competence in "problem-solving skills." The day-to-day duties of a logistics operations manager rely on this skill, as "top executives need to identify and resolve issues within an organization." For example, this snippet was taken directly from a resume about how this skill applies to what logistics operations managers do: "key accomplishments: -successfully implemented tms (oracle solution) into disney's cross-docks, distribution centers and service providers. "
Time-management skills. Another common skill required for logistics operations manager responsibilities is "time-management skills." This skill comes up in the duties of logistics operations managers all the time, as "top executives do many tasks concurrently to ensure that their work gets done and that the organization meets its goals." An excerpt from a real logistics operations manager resume shows how this skill is central to what a logistics operations manager does: "restructured far east procurement and supply chain management procedures to accelerate production and on time delivery by 15%. "
The three companies that hire the most logistics operations managers are:
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Compare different logistics operations managers
Logistics operations manager vs. General manager of operations
General managers of operations are employed to oversee the overall operations of businesses. Their responsibilities include the improvement of the efficiency of the operations and overall management. They coordinate the primary performance goals for direct reporting functions and set the strategies for the organization. It is their responsibility to communicate strategy as well as results to employees. They also engage with the corporate officers in the strategic planning and development of the organization or enterprise.
These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of a logistics operations manager are more likely to require skills like "supply chain," "logistics operations," "operational procedures," and "logistics support." On the other hand, a job as a general manager of operations requires skills like "develop team," "financial statements," "logistics," and "payroll." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.
The education levels that general managers of operations earn slightly differ from logistics operations managers. In particular, general managers of operations are 0.9% more likely to graduate with a Master's Degree than a logistics operations manager. Additionally, they're 0.1% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.Logistics operations manager vs. Manager, center operations
The duties of a manager of center operations depend on one's industry of employment. Typically, their responsibilities revolve around overseeing business operations, setting targets, assessing the workforce's performance, and performing corrective measures on any issues or concerns. Moreover, there are also instances where they have to produce progress reports, devise strategies for optimal business performance, delegate tasks, and even manage the budget. As a manager, it is crucial to lead and encourage the team to reach goals and sales targets while implementing the company's policies and regulations.
In addition to the difference in salary, there are some other key differences worth noting. For example, logistics operations manager responsibilities are more likely to require skills like "supply chain," "logistics operations," "operational procedures," and "customer service." Meanwhile, a manager, center operations has duties that require skills in areas such as "infrastructure," "osha," "standard operating procedure," and "patients." These differences highlight just how different the day-to-day in each role looks.
Managers, center operations earn a lower average salary than logistics operations managers. But managers, center operations earn the highest pay in the manufacturing industry, with an average salary of $68,400. Additionally, logistics operations managers earn the highest salaries in the manufacturing with average pay of $80,115 annually.Average education levels between the two professions vary. Managers, center operations tend to reach similar levels of education than logistics operations managers. In fact, they're 1.6% more likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.1% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for logistics operations managers in the next 3-5 years?
Eric Olsen
Professor, Industrial Technology and Packaging, Orfalea College of Business
Logistics operations manager vs. Logistics director
A logistics director spearheads and oversees a company's logistics operations. They are primarily responsible for setting goals and guidelines, managing the budgets and timelines, researching new opportunities, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of operations, and implementing solutions against problem areas. They must also maintain positive relationships with key clients and external parties, such as distributors and suppliers. Furthermore, as a director, it is essential to lead employees while implementing the company's policies and regulations, recommending new ones as needed.
Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from logistics operations manager resumes include skills like "operational procedures," "warehouse management," "performance metrics," and "transportation operations," whereas a logistics director is more likely to list skills in "project management," "oversight," "chain operations," and "contract negotiations. "
When it comes to education, logistics directors tend to earn higher degree levels compared to logistics operations managers. In fact, they're 5.9% more likely to earn a Master's Degree, and 0.1% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Logistics operations manager vs. Operations manager, district
A district operations manager is a managerial professional who manages the daily operations of stores within the assigned district as well as provides support to managers in ensuring quality and budget performance. The district operations manager must work with the store management to create and implement action plans to address deficiencies discovered during a store audit. They are required to evaluate areas of operational concern and provide support during the implementation of solutions. District operations managers must also create a cooperative environment between operations and sales departments to motivate all employees to enhance customer service.
Even though a few skill sets overlap between logistics operations managers and operations managers, district, there are some differences that are important to note. For one, a logistics operations manager might have more use for skills like "supply chain," "logistics operations," "operational procedures," and "customer service." Meanwhile, some responsibilities of operations managers, district require skills like "oversight," "performance management," "performance reviews," and "succession planning. "
The retail industry tends to pay the highest salaries for operations managers, district, with average annual pay of $87,812. Comparatively, the highest logistics operations manager annual salary comes from the manufacturing industry.In general, operations managers, district hold similar degree levels compared to logistics operations managers. Operations managers, district are 2.9% less likely to earn their Master's Degree and 0.3% less likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.Types of logistics operations manager
Updated January 8, 2025
