In order to work as a transportation manager in the United States, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree. If you major in a logistics, technical, or engineering discipline, you’ll have a better chance of getting hired. Employers may consider candidates with a business major in some cases. You should consider pursuing a master’s degree in a logistics or technical discipline if you want to be more competitive when applying for jobs. Some advanced business degrees, especially in areas such as accounting or finance, may be attractive to potential employers.
Employers will typically look for candidates with at least five years of relevant experience. Someone graduating from college and immediately landing this type of management position is unlikely, especially if the candidate has no relevant work experience. You must be an experienced supervisor to become a transportation manager and succeed in this position. It’s also possible that you’ll need project management experience or training.
For these jobs, a wide range of computer skills are typically required. Word processing and database software are skills that good candidates will have, as well as the ability to troubleshoot them. It may be easier for you to become a transportation manager if you know how to create reports, multimedia slides, and customize a variety of different types of presentations. Candidates who lack these desirable skills will almost certainly have a much more difficult time finding work.
You will be required to interact with clients on a regular basis in many of these positions. Individuals with strong communication skills are usually better suited for positions in transportation management. To become a transportation manager, you must be able to demonstrate that you can communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. If your employer wants you to recruit new clients, it might be advantageous if you can be a little bit of a salesperson.
You may be expected to assist in the preparation of financial statements or statistical data for one or more departments in this position. Your employer may also assign you the task of meeting specific annual financial goals. You may be required to follow up on customer complaints or other related issues as a transportation manager. Furthermore, in order to facilitate company growth, you may be required to collaborate closely with subject matter experts from a variety of fields.