Introduction

A warehouse manager faces a number of operational challenges and is expected to understand and implement company strategy to manage warehouse activities efficiently. A warehouse manager has to deal with different types of trade-offs which may include cost versus responsiveness, and cost efficiency versus volume throughput etc. In today’s competitive world a warehouse manager is responsible to maximize the effective use of his operational resources at the same time meeting the customer requirements. In order to achieve these objectives a warehouse manager must motivate and manage the staff effectively. The workforce of an organization is warehouse’s most valuable assets and should be used appropriately.

A Warehouse manager should have the following attributes

• Good Communication Skills
• Ability to delegate effectively
• Motivational Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Flexibility
• Comprehensive knowledge of company processes and procedures
• Ability to train others
• Be customer oriented
• Retaining employees and creating a healthy work culture

The responsibilities and the core accountabilities of a warehouse manager are as follows,

• Provision of a responsive and cost-efficient warehouse that is aligned with the current and long-term requirements of the global business strategy
• Responsibility for the leadership and direction of the warehouse team
• Ensuring the capabilities of a warehouse to deliver the volume requirements of the business
• Drive continuous improvement in the cost efficiency of the operations
• Setting of long-term vision for the warehouse in line with the strategic plan and to ensure that future volumes and customer-service requirements can be met
• Safeguard the human and physical assets employed in the warehouse
• Management of projects and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers
• Development and management of industrial relations within the warehouse environment

In general, the expectation from a warehouse manager is to achieve high customer-service levels but at a reduced cost through improved productivity and performance. Also they are liable to maintain lower inventory along with ensuring the safety and security of staff, equipment and stock. The six basic beliefs of warehouse management are accuracy, cost control, cleanliness, efficiency, safety and security.