Is Logistics the Gateway to a Career in the Automotive Aftermarket?
The automotive aftermarket thrives on skill, adaptability, and a passion for keeping the wheels of industry turning - and according to specialist recruiter Glen Callum Associates (GCA), one of the most overlooked entry points is logistics. Recent recruitment trends suggest that a significant proportion of candidates placed into aftermarket roles now come from warehousing, transport, or supply chain backgrounds - proving that the road into automotive isn’t always from the workshop or showroom.
Where Logistics Meets Automotive
Logistics is the backbone of the automotive supply chain, ensuring that parts, components, and finished products arrive on time and in perfect condition. Whether it’s brake pads to a regional distributor, diagnostic tools to a dealership, or exports to overseas markets, logistics professionals keep the aftermarket moving.
For those in warehouse operations, inventory management, or transport coordination, the transition into automotive-specific roles can be seamless. Skills in supply chain planning, stock control, process improvement, and customer liaison align closely with aftermarket roles from parts sales to procurement, technical support, and even management.
A Sector That Rewards Transferable Skills
The automotive aftermarket values efficiency, reduced downtime, and exceptional customer service - all hallmarks of a logistics background. Someone used to distributing thousands of SKUs in a just-in-time environment can adapt quickly to a large-scale parts distributor. Likewise, a transport planner with routing expertise and client communication skills could transition into sales support or account management, where attention to detail and customer satisfaction are paramount.
The Career Potential Beyond the Warehouse
Once inside the sector, opportunities can expand rapidly:
Technical Sales – leveraging product knowledge and customer understanding to drive growth.
Operations Management – overseeing multi-site distribution networks.
Procurement & Supply Chain – ensuring seamless product flow from manufacturer to customer.
Business Development – using operational know-how to expand market reach.
With the aftermarket evolving to embrace e-commerce, EV parts supply, and complex global supply chains, logistics professionals are well-positioned to play a role in innovation and growth.
Industry Insight from Glen Callum Associates
Glen Shepherd, Director at GCA, has seen this crossover many times: “Logistics is often underestimated as a starting point for an automotive career. We regularly place candidates from warehousing, transport, or supply chain backgrounds into roles where their expertise is invaluable. The industry’s pace and variety mean there’s real scope for career development, whether you want to stay close to operations or branch into sales, technical, or management roles.”
Why Employers Should Keep an Open Mind
Recruiting beyond traditional automotive talent pools can help address skills shortages. Logistics professionals bring KPI discipline, time-critical delivery experience, and a service-first mindset, all crucial to aftermarket success.
For employers and candidates alike, the message is clear: logistics isn’t just moving goods; it can move your career forward.