Hunter Campbell’s Mastering Supply Chain Series profiles jobs within the Supply Chain job family including jobs in demand, salaries, and employment prospects.
In this article, the role of Logistics Manager is in the spotlight.
Purpose of the Role
A Logistics Manager plays a critical role in overseeing the movement of goods from origin to customer, ensuring products are delivered on time, in full, and within budget. As the backbone of any business handling physical products, logistics involves planning, executing, and controlling all aspects of transportation, storage, and distribution. A Logistics Manager’s responsibilities can vary depending on the scale and type of business, often requiring flexibility to adapt to unique operational needs.
Key responsibilities include planning logistics strategies to ensure timely and cost effective delivery, which can range from managing international imports to overseeing domestic distribution. Logistics Managers also focus on optimising inventory levels, often utilising advanced Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and working with inventory teams to maintain availability. Additionally, they are responsible for cost management, typically handling a Profit and Loss (P&L) statement to keep shipping, warehousing, and distribution costs within budget, and managing supplier relationships to optimise expenses.
Risk management is also a crucial aspect of the role, with Logistics Managers mitigating supply chain risks through contingency planning, ensuring safe and secure storage, and upholding Health and Safety standards. Their expertise in these areas not only supports efficient operations but also safeguards the business against potential disruptions and ensures continuous improvement in logistics performance.
Recruitment Forecast 2025
The role of an experienced Logistics Manager has become essential for companies navigating today’s cost pressures and preparing for economic recovery. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and increasing reliance on advanced systems and automation, candidates with a well-rounded skill set in logistics management are in high demand. As businesses recognise the impact of effective logistics on their success, they are seeking professionals who can drive efficiency, manage inventory, and ensure seamless delivery across all channels.
Looking ahead to 2025, there are several key trends in recruitment for Logistics Managers. The continued expansion of e-commerce and omnichannel distribution will drive demand for professionals skilled in optimising complex supply chains and meeting fast-paced delivery expectations. The rise of sustainability initiatives is creating a need for logistics managers with expertise in green logistics and reverse logistics as companies prioritise environmental responsibility. As technology and automation become integral to logistics, managers proficient in AI, data analytics, and real-time tracking will be invaluable for maintaining competitive operations.
Challenges such as an aging workforce and skill gaps in advanced technologies underscore the competitive nature of this field, with companies likely offering attractive packages to secure top talent. By 2025, successful logistics managers will need to combine project management, technical proficiency, and cross-functional collaboration to keep pace with the industry’s demands.
Career Prospects
The career path of a Logistics Manager can vary widely based on the company’s size, structure, and industry. In larger organisations with multiple distribution centres and manufacturing sites across New Zealand, logistics roles may be divided by region. Here, a Logistics Manager might advance from managing a single site to overseeing a region, and eventually step into a National Logistics Manager role.
In a smaller company, a Logistics Manager may initially handle a broader range of responsibilities, such as Shipping and Warehousing, with potential to expand into areas like Planning and Transport as the company grows. This could lead to senior roles like General Manager of Logistics, General Manager of Operations, or even General Manager of Supply Chain. The pathway depends greatly on the company’s specific needs and growth opportunities.
Qualifications
Like many roles in Supply Chain, there is no single pathway to becoming a Logistics Manager. Many Logistics Managers have worked their way up from warehousing roles, gaining hands-on experience before stepping into leadership positions. Others transition from inventory, planning, or shipping roles, building a versatile skill set that prepares them for the demands of logistics management—often without needing formal qualifications.
Increasingly, corporate organisations are offering graduate programs where participants gain broad experience across the business before choosing a specific path, such as Logistics. Graduates in these roles are typically degree-qualified in fields like Supply Chain Management or Business Studies, and these programs provide valuable exposure to multiple areas of the supply chain.
For those looking to enhance their qualifications, certifications like the CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) from NZPICS provide in-depth coverage of logistics management. Additionally, many Logistics Managers hold certifications in key areas such as Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) compliance and Health and Safety, equipping them with the expertise needed for effective and compliant operations.
Key Skills Required
A successful Logistics Manager blends technical expertise with essential soft skills. On the technical side, they are proficient in warehousing and inventory software, possess commercial acumen, and have a thorough understanding of industry regulations. Equally important are their soft skills—effective communication, negotiation, and leadership capabilities. The role is fast-paced, requiring quick thinking and the ability to make swift, confident decisions as part of their daily responsibilities.
Salary Guide
This information is anecdotal and based on roles Hunter Campbell is currently recruiting or has previously recruited and relate to base salaries. They do not include any additional bonuses or benefits.
The demand for commercially-minded leaders who excel in people management, culture, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards, cost control, and transformation initiatives is rising sharply. With expertise in driving continuous improvement and leveraging technology, these professionals command a premium. Consequently, we have seen above-market salary increases for individuals with this high-demand skill set.
- Intermediate: $120,000 – $160,000
- Advanced: $160,000 – $220,000
- National / Regional: $200,000 – $280,000
If you would like to find out more about the role of a Logistics Manager, please contact consultant Joes Francis. Joe specialises in the recruitment of Supply Chain, Distribution and Logistics. For more news and views, visit our website by clicking here, see what opportunities we have available here or follow us on LinkedIn.
