Around 27,000 Logistics companies operate in the Greater London area, generating an annual gross turnover of £8.8 billion, and employing some 234,000 Logistics staff (6% of the capital's workforce). The Supply-Chain Industry offers an extensive range of work, and a career-fulfilling opportunity to contribute to the smooth-running success of London's economy.
Logistics recruitment in London - the state of the market
Typical jobs featured by recruitment agencies include Strategic Purchasing Manager and Operations Supervisor to Warehouse Assistant and Shelf-Picker, with on-the-job training for inexperienced staff. In London, manual job pay rates average around £14,000, graduate level employees earn upwards of £18,000 while professional qualifications in Transport, Logistics and Supply-Chain Management command higher salaries.
Qualifications for employment in Logistics
Although it is advantageous to have a technical degree, candidates from unrelated disciplines are generally also encouraged to apply. Leadership qualities and soft skills are becoming increasingly important as more London-based logistics businesses look for candidates with interpersonal qualities that help to improve performance.
Logistics-related studies and career progression courses, leading to NVQ's, diplomas and second degrees, are widely supported by the industry and offered at every level of employment. The Logistics Industry is a 24 hour operation, seven days a week with operational staff generally expected to cover weekend and night shifts.