A focus on the future at the Talent in Logistics Conference 2018 helped managers, trainers, and instructors from transport, warehousing and logistics operations to prepare to tackle the challenges currently facing the logistics industry.
Hundreds of delegates attended Talent in Logistics 2018 in Telford on Thursday 21 June, the only event dedicated to the training, development, recognition and retention of the 2.2m+ people working in transport, warehousing and logistics in the UK and Ireland. A variety of conference sessions, workshops, debates and interactive sessions provided transport and logistics professionals with vital new skills and knowledge.
Securing the next generation of talent
It is estimated that more than a quarter of employees are approaching retirement age and, as one of the fastest growing sectors, the logistics industry needs to attract new talent to secure a successful future.
A Talent in Logistics Conference session, ‘Why aren’t young people attracted to working in logistics?’, saw a panel of current industry apprentices alongside recruitment and skills experts, including speakers from Indeed UK, Skills Office / Logistics Skills Alliance (LSA) and Bis Henderson Academy, sharing their insights on how logistics and transport operations can attract the next generation of professionals.
The keynote presentation from leading psychologist, Professor Adrian Furnham, explained ‘How to attract diverse talent’, exploring the psychology behind attracting individuals from diverse and under-represented groups of society, including young people, to careers in the transport, warehousing and logistics sector. With considerations from influencing career choices during childhood, to awareness of different motivations and strengths of different sexes and generations, he provided insightful tips on how to notice, accept and value differences between people in the workplace, challenge assumptions, make fair decisions about people, and create a culture of inclusion and acceptance.
Managers and business owners also found it beneficial to learn more about the Apprenticeship Levy and how to get the most out of it. A speaker from Bis Henderson Academy, which helps businesses get the most out of spending their funds, provided information about the tangible benefits the apprenticeship levy can bring to businesses and advice about up-skilling managers and first line team leaders, as well as warehouse operatives, supply chain professionals and customer service teams.
Preparing for a fast-changing industry
As interest in automated logistics solutions grows, a panel of speakers from Kuehne + Nagel, Hyster Europe, Transformotion and Advanced Intelligent Supply Chain, discussed the training that will be needed for an automated future and how learning and development professionals can get prepared.
Brexit was, of course, a topic of discussion in terms of how training regulation in the transport and logistics industry may change. A panel of experts discussed the potential impact of Brexit including possible implications around acceptance of the UK Transport Manager qualification in the EU, possible changes to Driver CPC by the UK Government and whether the industry can expect less restrictions or more red tape.
Future proofing training and development
The future of training, learning and development for logistics professionals was at the heart of the Talent in Logistics Conference agenda. A spokesperson from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) shared thoughts on the future of vocational training and testing, while a workshop led by RTITB dispelled common forklift training myths and showed how cost savings and compliance can be achieved in future.
An insightful session titled ‘Understanding and overcoming resistance to learning’ looked at how to create readiness for organisational and behavioural change within teams, giving delegates tips and tactics to improve engagement with Driver CPC Periodic Training.
Other thought-provoking sessions included ‘Mental Health First Aid in Industrial Environments’, ‘Forklifts Warehousing and Racking: The True Story of a 9-hour Rescue’, and ‘Workplace Transport Compliance and Investigations: A Legal View’, encouraging managers to think differently on returning to their business.
The Information Zone also proved a hit with visitors, who valued the opportunity to network with reputable suppliers offering products and services to improve training in logistics and transport industry businesses. Delegates also saw best practice in action with the thrilling live grand finals of the Forklift Operator of the Year 2018 and Forklift Instructor of the Year 2018 Competitions, and live forklift pre-use and LGV walk round check demonstrations.
Celebrating excellence to retain talent
Recognising and rewarding talent is key for attracting and retaining future talent in the transport, warehousing and logistics industries.
The Talent in Logistics Awards followed the conference, celebrating professionals at every level of learning and development and rewarding the people inspiring the next generation of logistics and transport talent. The glamourous event included a drinks reception, a 3-course meal dinner, networking, and entertainment from Queen tribute band, Flash – as seen on BBC TV. The Talent in Logistics Awards winners were all revealed by charming celebrity host Jeff Stelling, well known for presenting Sky Sports Gillette Soccer Saturday.
To see the winners, visit www.talentinlogistics.co.uk
Announcing Talent in Logistics 2019
Following the success of Talent in Logistics 2018 and overwhelming positive feedback from delegates, the event will return for 2019. Next year’s Talent in Logistics events will take place at Arena MK in Milton Keynes on 27th June 2019.
To register at a special early bird rate, or to find out about supporting the Talent in Logistics 2019 event, email talentinlogistics@capitb.co.uk or call 01952 520 216.
