AFTER serving as a telemarketer, secretary, receptionist, data entry clerk, export account clerk, export account representative and export customer service team leader, Rennae Ennis-Lutas says none of these jobs have been as satisfying as her one-year stint as outbound logistics manager at Red Stripe Jamaica.

According to the 29-year-old graduate of Caribbean Maritime Institute, having a job focused on logistics is “fun”.

Ennis-Lutas has a diploma in international shipping and logistics and a bachelor of science degree in logistics and supply chain management. This week she shares with Career & Education an insight into her career choice.

Who is an outbound logistics manager?

Outbound logistics is the movement of material associated with storing, transporting, and distributing goods. Logistics is the management of the flow of goods between the point of origin and the point of consumption. In the world of Red Stripe/Diageo, an outbound logistics manager is responsible for three main areas — customer service, warehousing and distribution for both export and domestic markets.

What is the value of the work that you do?

Outbound logistics is of critical importance to any organisation as this aspect of the business functions like the heart. The success of Red Stripe is heavily dependent on the efficiency, thoroughness and competence of the outbound logistics department. We assist with brand creation, brand value and most importantly, end-to-end efficiency.

What do you enjoy most about your career?

The people I meet and the relationships formed as a result.

What are your key responsibilities?

1. To lead the customer service and logistics vision of Red Stripe for domestic and export customers while providing an excellent sales order management support system. The role involves managing the operations of four warehouses and maintaining adequate stock levels to support domestic and export requirements in keeping with key performance indicators.

2. The people component is critical, as I also have responsibility for 11 full-time employees and approximately 13 contractors.

What are the qualifications for your job?

A Bachelor’s degree in business management.

Five years’ experience in supply chain and inventory management.

Detailed knowledge of best practices inventory management and store room management.

Excellent analytical skills.

Detailed knowledge of the inventory, materials management and purchasing modules.

What are some of the challenges faced on the job?

People, road network, reliable fleet management, production scheduling in line with demand, and creating the much needed work/life balance.

Red Stripe Jamaica’s outbound logistics manager Rennae Ennis-Lutas.