Functions description

Intro concerning Logistics functions job description

[Group 1] Formulating & implementing supply and waste chains strategy

This group includes senior management positions responsible for strategy, policy and decision-making.

Is in charge of the business strategy, the allocation of resources (financial (budget), material and human) the integration and management of their area of logistics specialism (including quality performance management).

Is also responsible for the customer service strategy, the reverse logistics strategy and the implementation of changes

Implements corporate logistics policy taking into account all reverse logistics aspects (e.g. he may design the return strategy for packaging (returnable or damaged) according to legislation in force, and is in charge of customer service strategy. Collaborates with customers and suppliers on logistics matters. They need to be aware of the cost effects and staffing implications of logistics plans and decisions. They also take action in response to performance measurement results.

Performs logistics and marketing analysis (market  and competitors analysis) to promote/increase brand identity by identifying and gathering  and spreading information on the operation, its planning and pricing, and providing advice and consultation to others/relevant target groups.

Monitors key performance indicators and prepares reports about the results and communicate with the supply chain & logistics manager. May also be asked to undertake special research studies such as geo-marketing research.

Responsible for using information technology (IT) for logistics planning and simulation exercises to resolve problems in the logistics area.  From this he/she develops and plans logistics activities

The logistics controller analyses costs and monitors performance. They identify problems, analyses them and proposes possible solutions. They also support relevant logistics projects.

The logistics IT specialist implements software solutions along the supply chain, integrating ICT systems inbound within the company and outbound with providers, suppliers and customers, and cross-functional integration of database.

The logistics supervisor coordinates the daily operations.  However, in general terms they ensure the optimal receipt, storage and issue of goods, and to ensure that the organisational standards are met. Depending on the size of the organisation, the supervisor may have a number of smaller teams reporting to them.

[Group 2] Resource Management

This group includes planning and implementation of procurement all necessary resources (information and goods) and inventory control.

Holds responsibility for materials planning, purchasing, management.  In most cases the materials manager will head up a multi-functional team, covering a range of logistics related occupations including inventory planners, purchasing staff, etc.

Manages the planning and organisation of the packaging department and related logistics activities. Would work with other departments (production, SCM, marketing, maintenance) and external suppliers and be able to understand their needs, requirements problems and suggestions.

Analyses the provision of services that have been arranged under the contracts with suppliers.  Evaluates, analyses the performance of suppliers against the service level agreement for the appropriate contract. Develops and manages contracts with suppliers in order to ensure timely delivery of goods, materials and the provision of services.

Performs benchmarking studies and market analysis to be continuously up-to-date on latest trends and technologies. May re-negociate the agreements to better fit the company long term strategy.

Supports the management of the day to day ordering and delivery of materials and provisions of services that have been arranged under the contracts with suppliers.  Ensures the deliveries are on time and in accordance with the contract specification.Monitors and evaluates the performance of suppliers against the service level agreement for the appropriate contract.

Supports the day-to-day ordering and delivery of materials and provision of services that have been agreed under the contracts with suppliers. Processes purchase orders and payments and liaises with both suppliers and customers.

The objective is to ensure that all materials and services are delivered on time and to the required quality in accordance with the Subcontract. The role requires a proactive approach to identify any risks to schedule and quality performance and to support the early implementation of recovery plans to mitigate the impact on the performance of the organisation.

Makes sure stock is kept at the correct level to meet demand and ensure replenishment is ordered on a just in time process to avoid the cost of carrying excess.

He must take into account that some goods or packaging may be re-used according to specific rules. Ensures safety of stock. For example he must be aware of the dangerous and/or polluting nature of the goods and packaging to isolate them from the others.

[Group 3] Production Planning and Control

This group includes jobs with primary tasks concerning production planning and control

The operations manager (OM) manages the process that converts inputs (in the forms of materials, labour, and energy) into outputs (in the form of goods and/or services) and makes sure the outputs are optimised and acting with due diligence.

The OM is responsible for the overall operational day to day running of the organisation. The OM has teams reporting to them from the separate business functions and will be responsible for making the final decisions on operational activities. The OM holds budgetary accountability for the operation and ensures reports and issues are escalated upwards as necessary.

Responsible for drawing up master schedules to establish the sequence and lead time for each operation in order to meet delivery dates agreed with customers or to meet sales forecasts. Plans and schedules the workflow for each department to achieve an optimum utilisation of resources, including fabrication, assembly and installation.

Is also responsible for setting up production cost and productivity standards and coordinating supply and demand forecasts and monitoring inventory flows.

[Group 4] Warehousing

This group includes warehouse management and material handling.

The warehouse manager is in overall control of the distribution centre or warehouse. They have ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safe and efficient day to day running of the unit to help meet the organisation business plan. This process includes staff and financial management but also quality and environmental control.

The warehouse shift leader manages the daily operations on the warehouse floor. Depending on the size of the warehouse, they may be responsible for part or all of the operational processes.  However, in general terms they ensure the optimal receipt, storage and issue of goods, and ensure that the organisational standards are met. Key tasks include the management of the daily activities in the warehouse, and the management of inventory control. Depending on the size of the warehouse, the supervisor may have a number of smaller teams reporting to them

The warehouse operators may work in a particular area or may be classed as multifunctional.  They normally receive deliveries of goods and check them against the relevant documentation which may include scanning incoming goods.  They may use a forklift truck to load, unload and move goods and have responsibility for replenishing stock. The work may also include order picking, inspection, weighing and packing ordered goods.

The forklift driver is responsible for the safe loading, unloading of goods from vehicles and the movement of goods within the warehouse.  They ensure goods are placed in the correct storage locations and may operate within the warehouse or yard.  They are also responsible for ensuring the daily maintenance of their forklift is carried out.

The order picker selects customer orders accurately by following a picking list. They may also pack orders and group them together ready for dispatch.  The order picker checks the orders to ensure completeness and reports any shortages using the appropriate systems.  They also report damaged or defective stock items.

Normally working either within the warehouse or in the administration area, they receive the orders from customers and enter them into the computer which prints order pick-lists.  These pick lists are then grouped by delivery schedule and given to warehouse supervisor for assembly. Once delivery has been confirmed invoices can then be raised.

The maintenance supervisor ensures equipment service and repairs are carried out in line with the agreed schedule and are properly recorded with minimum disruption to the normal operation. They also ensure the coordination of any specialised contractors required.

The maintenance operator performs the maintenance tasks for the equipment and buildings of the organisation.  They service and repair machinery and equipment in line with organisational procedures and report any defects in the appropriate manner.