Warehouse automation reshaping logistics skills

Today, many warehouses across the UK use mechanisation/automation with integrated technology solutions to optimise their operations. This isn’t anything new but these solutions are becoming increasingly complex in an effort to cope with increasing volume, manage shorter lead times and reduce labour costs. Regardless of the level of automation within your organisation, the use of technology is growing and is expected to completely transform the logistics sector over the coming years. 

Logistics skills of the future

At the beginning of the year, our consultants revealed the top 10 most sought-after skills in logistics. The skills that were highlighted stemmed from the need for clear and effective communication, efficient process planning and delivery, warehouse management and technology, and teamwork which has also seen employers investing in talent development to ensure the longer-term sustainability of their business. 
However, as the adoption of automated processes grows and AI is introduced into the sector at what has been predicted to be a record pace, the types of roles will change and the skill sets needed will too. 

Evolving skills

As the use of automation increases so does the reliance on accurate data. There is an increasing need for logistics professionals to understand and manipulate complicated data but with a strong operational grounding to be able to interpret it. Logistics operations are increasingly seeking key skills from supply chain (planning) and manufacturing (H&S, compliance, process driven) environments. 
  • Warehouse systems manager – responsible for managing the warehouse management systems (WMS) that are linked to the automation equipment. Warehouse systems manager roles are becoming more prevalent for large automated sites.
  • Logistics analysts – there has been an increase in these kinds of roles focused on extracting data to identify optimisation opportunities.  
  • Solutions design – warehouse solutions design experience and candidates with AutoCAD experience are a growing requirement for employers.
  • Project managers – we are already seeing a huge increase in the demand for project managers to support implementations, system upgrading and optimisation.  
  • Kaizen or LEAN methodology - job descriptions are now more likely to include these requirements that would be more typical in a manufacturing environment.
  • Packaging experience - all sectors are being pushed to be more sustainable but also to drive down costs.
Operational roles have evolved and clients are seeking candidates that can do more, however, there will always be a need for traditional warehouse skills. 
In addition to the more technical skills evolving, we have also noticed that a lot of logistics businesses are putting a greater emphasis on softer skills such as different management techniques. As the demand for these skills grows, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find candidates from industrial environments with this skill set as the candidate pool is short.

How are logistics operations preparing for automation?

If your organisation is implementing automated processes, or you are considering introducing new technology, it’s important to ensure you are working closely with your team.
You might also need to consider bringing in professionals with new skills to grow your team’s capabilities and share their expertise with your existing employees. The best way to attract strong talent in order to meet the demands of the function is a strong brand. Businesses, especially SMEs that may not have a strong market presence, generally use specialist recruiters to help promote their brand and attract the right talent. 
High competition for candidates with the aforementioned experience means a considered and engaging recruitment experience is vital. Widening the job brief to accommodate candidates from other relevant sectors and challenging traditional views on recruitment within the organisation to ensure you attract high potential candidates that can be developed within the roles will be key. Candidates will choose employers committed to their people. Showcase a high level of engagement throughout the hiring process, give them the opportunity to meet the team and explore the wider operation, and be sure you understand their salary and benefits expectations.
If you would like to discuss how we can help with your recruitment processes contact your local office. Alternatively, submit a job spec and one of our expert consultants will be in touch. 
Chris Madine
Business Director
Michael Page Logistics
T: +441212309446