Case studies: Supply chain manager: Andrew

Andrew joined the graduate scheme of one of the largest logistics providers. He was keen to be involved in operations management and wanted a role that was varied and people-focused...

After graduating with a degree in accountancy, Andrew believed the obvious path to follow was a career in finance. Therefore, for two years, he worked in private client financial advice. This opportunity provided a good introduction to the professional world. He realised, however, that the profession focused on particular knowledge and areas of expertise and felt that he would rather be involved in managing people or some other role with a broader scope.

Andrew began looking for jobs in general management and a friend recommended he look at the logistics/supply chain industry.

In 2004, Andrew joined the graduate scheme of one of the biggest logistics providers. The scheme involved four placements over two years and meant working on operations which oversaw the transport and warehousing for retailers such as Comet and Marks & Spencer. This was a great experience and provided the variety Andrew was hoping for. It did mean, however, that he needed to be flexible, as he often moved to a different city every six months.

Once the scheme finished, Andrew took a permanent role as a transport first line manager looking after the night operation and ensuring the busy operation of around 50 drivers ran as smoothly as it could. This was a steep learning curve, and his first real exposure to transport. Understanding the legislation and trying to manage drivers was no easy task.

Andrew soon got promoted and took a role as a warehouse operations manager on the Ikea home delivery contract. This was before Ikea launched its online shopping. Andrew was involved in planning for the launch and dealing with rapidly growing volumes. Also, the quantity of stock meant that health and safety was high on the agenda. Andrew was responsible for making sure that his team was safe when loading the stock but also that it was safe for the delivery crews to unload at the customers' homes. When he left, the operation had pretty much trebled, and he was managing a team of 70.

Andrew found operations challenging and enjoyed managing people. However, he eventually decided he wanted to be more involved in the decision processes and planning. He had implemented a lot of changes and reacted to a lot of problems but wanted to be more involved in the planning and developing of a business and not just reacting to it. Operations management can be tiring with being on call and reacting to problems.

Andrew has recently started a new job as a supply chain project manager. The role is very different and doesn't involve managing a team, but it should be a great learning experience. He looks forward to facing new challenges.

For anyone interested in a career in general or operations management, Andrew thinks that the logistics industry is a good option. You have to be able to mix with a variety of people, be confident in your decision-making, handle pressure, and be able to lead people.

Andrew certainly has gained broad exposure in HR, recruitment, finance, operations, and team and project management. So, if variety is important for you, he would encourage you to consider a career as a distribution manager.