Operations

Logisticians analyze and coordinate the supply chain of companies, managing a products life cycle, starting at the point of acquisition through to distribution and final delivery. They review the logistical functions of businesses, such as procurement, inventory management, and supply chain management and planning systems, and make recommendations for improvements. Logisticians oversee purchasing, transportation, inventory, and warehousing. Their work may involve directing the movement of goods, people, or supplies; this could include common consumer goods or military personnel and supplies.

Their main tasks are to plan, direct, and coordinate transportation, storage, and/or distribution activities according to organizational policies and in compliance with government regulations and laws. The industries that employ the largest number of logistics, transportation, storage, and distribution managers are warehousing and storage; various companies and enterprises; general freight trucking; federal executive branch; and rail transportation. 

Industrial production managers manage the daily operations of manufacturing plants. They oversee the plant’s workers and work processes. They decide how to use workers as effectively as possible to streamline production, always with attention to staying on schedule and within budget. Industrial production managers work closely with managers in other departments, such as the procurement department, which orders and buys materials that the production department uses. They also coordinate work with sales, warehousing, and the research and design departments. The manufacturing industries that employ the most industrial production managers are motor vehicle parts manufacturing, plastics product manufacturing, and navigation and electromedical instruments manufacturing, and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing. 

Purchasing managers coordinate purchasing activities for wholesale trade, retail, or organizations. They plan and direct the buying of materials, products, equipment, supplies, or services. They hire, supervise, and train staff, and also oversee the work of buyers and purchasing agents. Purchasing managers also interview and select vendors and suppliers, visiting plants and distribution centers to find the best products, services, and prices for the organization they are working for. They negotiate contracts with suppliers and monitor the business processes to make sure the terms of the contract are met. Purchasing managers stay informed of their organization’s sales records and inventories of current stock. The job also entails identifying foreign suppliers, and keeping up to date on changes that could affect supply and demand of products and materials.