Attracting and retaining talent at Priority Freight

Published: Wednesday, 6 September 2023

As thousands of students collect exam results or graduate from colleges and universities, Priority Freight’s Group HR Manager, Liz Taylor-Cook ponders how many might be considering a career in logistics – and how to boost that number.

With the rise in e-commerce and ongoing supply chain issues across many industries, the performance of the logistics sector has never been subject to such scrutiny. Despite its pivotal role in global trade, misconceptions remain about job roles in the sector and much still needs to be done to attract and retain talent.

One proven way to encourage new talent into the industry is via apprenticeship schemes, and Priority Freight will be rolling out its own programme later this year. Apprentices can bring a fresh perspective and recruits don’t join the company with preconceived ideas about what logistics is or how it has been done elsewhere. Graduate or novice, we will always take on a candidate that shows potential; success is down to the individual and their wiliness to adapt and become a part of the team. 

Another way to get a taste of logistics without the commitment of an apprenticeship is via short-term work experience. Ross Hatt completed a work experience placement with us and went on to become a full-time member of staff: “Time flies working in such a fast-paced environment,” commented Ross. “Over the past nine years at Priority Freight I’ve built good relationships with customers and suppliers, something I have very much enjoyed doing. There are often challenges thrown your way, but I enjoy working with the team around me to help solve problems and provide the best solutions.”

Those apprentices and new starters equipped with the right attributes – such as a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and an ability to work in a fast-paced environment – will have the opportunity to advance rapidly. People entering the logistics industry must understand that there are lots of complexities and moving parts; not everything is linear, so adapting and thinking outside the box, especially in time-critical logistics, is crucial.

Many of our General Managers and Operations Managers started in junior roles and progressed by taking the guidance offered. Additionally, some of our Team Leaders began their career in logistics admin and moved through other logistics roles or even changed departments, for example by moving from Logistics to Customs.

Globally, there is a shortage of skilled workers in the logistics industry, and we are constantly evolving the workforce across each of our European offices. Priority Freight has an almost even headcount split between women and men, comprised of individuals from various cultures and backgrounds, all working together. We like to model best practise and hope that by having a diverse workforce, we can encourage others to follow suit and highlight it as an inclusive and rewarding career choice.