Warehouse manager : Training

Training varies from company to company. Some larger companies offer comprehensive graduate training schemes. These usually last up to two years, with periods spent on rotation in various departments and geographical locations, learning on the job and often studying at the same time for relevant professional qualifications.

Warehouse management can be seen as a specialism within the wider context of logistics, transport and supply chain management, so training (especially with a large operator) is likely to include exposure to other areas, such as transport management and administration.

Outside formal graduate training schemes, new entrants learn on the job under the supervision of experienced supervisors and managers.

Larger employers encourage professional qualifications, and often expect their graduate trainees to work towards them. The The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK offers nationally accredited awards at Levels 2 to 6 in the government framework. These courses also provide a route to professional qualification for non-graduates. Membership of a professional institute such as CILT demonstrates commitment to the profession and to lifelong learning. See the CILT Training, Development and Qualifications Directory available to download on the website for the full range of courses.

Personal skills and qualities are highly valued in this area of work. Any time spent developing communication skills and negotiating or teamworking ability, through in-house training courses and/or as part of continuing professional development (CPD), will be advantageous for progression. It is largely up to individuals to take responsibility for their own development, although companies often offer support in terms of secondments with partner organisations or by supporting additional relevant learning, qualifications or higher degrees.