A Career as a Warehouse Manager

Overview

A Warehouse Manager is generally responsible for ensuring the safe, secure storage of products and for the planning and organisation of deliveries and the despatch of goods.  Incoming deliveries have to be sorted prior to their allocation to the most appropriate location in the warehouse and outgoing goods need to be carefully packaged before they are loaded onto delivery vehicles.  These days, information on stock held within the warehouse is maintained on computer systems and these are updated daily with stock movements.  Also, depending on the nature of the products stored within the premises, the Warehouse Manager is responsible for ensuring adherence to appropriate legislation including health, safety and fire regulations.

As a manager, the role will include full accountability for all other members of staff employed within the warehouse facility including warehouse operatives and supervisors.  The Warehouse Manager will generally be involved in the recruitment and training processes and for dealing with any disciplinary matters that may arise.  Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring that all equipment and machinery used within the warehouse is well maintained and fully operational.  Depending on the nature of the business, the Warehouse Manager will coordinate regularly with other departments to ensure that the warehouse is managed in accordance with overall business objectives.

A Warehouse Manager will often be required to undertake shift work so that the facility is managed at all times.  Generally, they need to be well organised with good problem-solving skills and the ability to plan effectively to ensure that deadlines are achieved.  Due to the computerisation of most warehouse facilities, IT skills are also advisable.

Entry requirements

Warehouse Managers often progress to this role through promotion from warehouse operative or supervisor.  There are a number of qualifications available which can facilitate career development including NVQs in Distribution, Warehousing and Storage Operations.  There are also degrees available in Supply Chain Management, Logistics and Transport Management.  The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) offers various professional qualifications.  European accreditation can be achieved through the European Certification Board for Logistics therefore opening up the possibility of finding work in Europe.

Progression opportunities

Warehouse Managers can be employed in a wide range of industry sectors including manufacturing and retail.  Salary is relatively good and is generally based on experience and qualifications.  It is also often dependent on the nature of the products stored within the warehouse as some goods naturally carry with them a higher degree of risk.