Warehouse manager : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, the following subjects may improve your chances:

• transport, distribution or logistics;
• business, management or economics;
• retail management;
• operational research;
• business information systems;
• business with languages.

Foundation degrees in logistics and supply chain management are also available. Visit The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK  website for details.

Entry without a degree or HND/foundation degree is commonly possible. Industry experience is still an important factor in recruitment, but employers increasingly prefer applicants with a degree.

Although a postgraduate qualification is not needed prior to entry, a Masters in logistics and supply chain management may help give you the edge with some employers, especially if the course provides placement opportunities. Once you have started work in the industry, CILT offers a range of qualifications for those entering the profession through to strategic management level. These qualifications range from a Level 2 Certificate to Level 6 Advanced Diploma and a Masters degree offered in partnership with the University of Glamorgan. See the CILT Training, Development and Qualifications Directory available to download on the website for the full range of courses.

On-the-job experience linked to professional qualifications provides a common entry route for post A-level entrants. Relevant CILT introductory and certificate awards are particularly useful.

Although pre-entry experience is not needed, experience of working in a team and dealing with people in a warehouse setting will improve your chances.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent oral and written skills;
• numeracy;
• people management skills, including the ability to lead and motivate others, delegate work and explain ideas;
• planning and organising skills;
• teamworking ability;
• analytical ability;
• initiative and decisiveness;
• enthusiasm;
• technical skills and an aptitude for ICT - most modern warehouses employ computerised and automated systems;
• problem-solving skills and an ability to work on a tactical and strategic level;
• the ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.

Knowledge of foreign languages is becoming increasingly useful throughout the industry.

Try to get some vacation work or an industrial placement in a warehouse to test your suitability for this area of work.

Many larger logistics firms operate graduate training schemes. Apply for these early during your final year, as competition for graduate training places is strong. Alternatively, consider a general warehouse position, for example, as a trainee supervisor with a smaller organisation. There tend to be more opportunities in this area, and experience in these jobs can lead to line-management positions.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.