use IT systems to manage stock levels, delivery times and transport costs;
use associated information systems to coordinate and control the order cycle;
use data from IT systems to evaluate performance and quality and to plan improvements;
allocate and manage staff resources according to changing needs;
manage staff;
liaise and negotiate with customers and suppliers;
develop business by gaining new contracts, analysing logistical problems and producing new solutions;
understand, work with and possibly help to develop e-commerce;
continually try to improve and develop business performance within the constraints of legislation, fuel costs and rising environmental pressures.