The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
From International Logistics Lead (L4) at a larger company
3-5 years in a Lead roleSkills to master
- Moving from managing projects and small teams to owning an entire function, including budget and strategic direction. Developing stronger executive presence and cross-functional influence.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major international logistics project from end-to-end (e.g., new market entry, new carrier implementation).
- Consistently delivered on cost reduction or service improvement targets for your managed lanes/programmes.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior team members, with clear examples of their growth.
- Comfortable presenting to senior leadership and defending your recommendations with data.
- 2
From Head of Logistics at a smaller, growing company
4-6 years in a Head of Logistics roleSkills to master
- Adapting to a larger, more complex organisational structure and a broader global footprint. Scaling existing processes and managing a bigger team with more resources.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully built out a logistics function or significantly scaled operations in a previous role.
- Managed a full logistics budget and demonstrated strong financial acumen.
- Experience navigating international trade complexities, even if on a smaller scale.
- Proven ability to build and lead a team from scratch or through periods of rapid growth.
- 3
From a Senior Consultant in Supply Chain / Logistics
5-7 years in consulting, with focus on logisticsSkills to master
- Transitioning from advising to hands-on execution and ownership. Building and managing an internal team, rather than project-based external teams. Navigating internal politics and long-term organisational change.
You're ready to move on when
- Led multiple logistics transformation projects for various clients, with demonstrable impact.
- Deep expertise in logistics strategy, network design, or trade compliance.
- Experience working closely with client teams, demonstrating strong interpersonal and influence skills.
- A desire to move from project-based work to owning a long-term operational function.