Logistics specialist

The logistics specialist is responsible for the overall logistics of a base or a program, in order to meet the operational and technical needs of a particular mission. He/she is also responsible for the material environment of expatriate teams.

Core skills

Ensures the maintenance and correct use of technical equipment: vehicle fleets, IT, telecommunications and energy equipment

For all of this technical equipment, the logistics specialist:
– Organizes the allocation and distribution of the equipment
– Identifies needs and selects suppliers
– Delivers training in equipment handling and draws up operating procedures
– Implements monitoring tools
– Monitors what reinforcements are required in terms of equipment, and advises on purchases

Is responsible for setting up and running the supply chain

After analysing the local business environment, the logistics specialist must organize the various stages for purchasing goods and services: order, tracking, receipt, compliance checks and budget control. These purchases may be national, local or international.
To do this, he/she must be familiar and compliant with all internal purchasing procedures.
Once the goods have been purchased, he/she must manage their storage conditions by selecting suitable sites, organize goods flows, supervise receipt of goods as well as conducting qualitative and quantitative controls, and ensure that rigorous inventory monitoring is carried out.

Is able to manage national teams in their particular area of activity

The logistics specialist often manages the largest teams on the mission: drivers, caretakers, warehouse managers, etc. As well as organizing the work for their teams, he/she must be able to lead meetings, support their teams, resolve problems, provide dependable technical support and, where appropriate, identify training needs of logistics staff.

Helps to manage various security aspects

Liaising with the coordinator to implement safety regulations, the logistics specialist must coordinate actions relating to program security, such as program types, resources, goods, travel, workplaces and accommodation.
He/she is responsible for implementing security management tools (safety plans, medical evacuations, etc.) defined by the coordination team.
He/she ensures that the tools implemented are monitored and updated, and plays a key role in analysing the environment and security conditions by keeping a close and constant eye on safety and security-related developments in the environment. Lastly, he/she ensures that safety rules are complied with.

Cross-disciplinary skills

As with any field position, the logistics specialist does not work alone.
In conjunction with the base administrator, he/she must draw up and monitor their budget, write up reports for logistics activities, and be involved in monitoring their cash flow.
In conjunction with Programs, he/she must organize supply and purchasing and monitoring schedules for the various projects, within the limit of planned expenditure.
Lastly, he/she will develop and maintain relations with local partners in his/her particular field of activity, including traders, contractors, and networks relating to security monitoring.

This is why the logistics specialist must be able to integrate an intercultural framework in his/her management practices, all the more so since he/she is required to manage large teams.
He/she also needs to be able to address the local context, taking into account the specific geopolitical situation of the country and the area in which he/she will be working.
He/she must also be able to incorporate various security aspects into their work, including helping to define procedures and tools relating to money security for missions.

Additional skills

English (depending on the CPUNTRY OF INTERVENTION)

– Can be easily and unambiguously understood, both orally and in writing.
– Easily understands the people he/she is speaking to

IT

– Proficient in basic IT functions (Office).
– Proficient in computerized communication tools (email, internet, communication software, etc.).

FrENCH

– Has excellent writing skills in French.
– Speaks fluently in public and with his/her contacts.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

– They are the same as required for any field position:
– He/she must demonstrate adaptability and flexibility, reliability and firmness, as well as discernment and initiative.
– Common sense is however your key tool, along with empathy, listening skills and the ability to persuade.

Possible career paths

ON THE GROUND

Career progression within the same field of activity involves coordination positions.
The Logistics Coordinator manages the mission’s logistics activities so as to ensure that SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL’s programs run smoothly in the country concerned. He/she ensures that SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL’s logistics tools and procedures for the mission are properly implemented, and makes sure that they are properly used and complied with. He/she helps to define the mission’s strategy, devise projects and provision the resources necessary for the various activities.
He/she also supports the Head of Mission in operational security management matters.
He/she acts as an advisor for the mission for any logistics-related issues, and liaises between head office and the mission.

 

AT HEAD OFFICE

As we offer the option to swap between working on the ground and working at head office, or should your personal circumstances require you to return to France, we can offer roles at head office that are a logical extension of our field staff positions:
– Logistics Manager at Head Office (chief logistics manager)
– Desk Logistics Officer (supervising logistics in several countries)
– Purchasing Manager
– Security Advisor

Your experience can also lead you to Human Resources (Recruitment and follow up Officer) or on positions related to security – (Security Advisor)

Photo : © Alex Cauvin / SOLIDARITÉS INTERNATIONAL