The Logistics and Supply Chain sector in the UK has an estimated net worth of about £75 billion and provides employment for more than 2 million individuals. At least 200,000 companies nationwide offer career opportunities for logistics professionals, and it is an industry that encompasses a wide variety of diverse positions, from administrative roles to warehouse operations.
Employers in the field prefer candidates to possess degrees at the bachelors or masters level, but these are not always needed for entry-level positions. There are many respected institutions in the UK offering relevant courses in supply chain management and purchasing, which can significantly improve prospects for upward mobility within the sector. Positions commonly listed by recruitment agencies include Warehouse Operative, Import/Export Clerk, and Distribution Manager.
Salaries in logistics and supply range from roughly £13,000 to £37,000. The average income for careers in the industry, however, is about £23K. In London, salaries are significantly higher, often by as much as 30%. Northern Ireland, on the other hand, is currently the lowest paying region in the UK. Careers in the field commonly require travel, and many companies in the industry also require shift work on nights and weekends.