Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Capacity Planning • Order Fulfillment • Distribution Network

Lead Time

Term from Logistics Consulting industry explained for recruiters

Lead Time is the total amount of time it takes from when an order is placed until the product or service is delivered to the customer. It's like a countdown clock that starts when someone orders something and stops when they receive it. This term is crucial in logistics and supply chain roles because companies want to make their lead times as short as possible to keep customers happy. When you see this on a resume, it often means the person has experience in making delivery processes faster and more efficient.

Examples in Resumes

Reduced Lead Time by 40% through warehouse reorganization and process improvements

Analyzed and optimized Lead Times for international shipping routes across 12 countries

Implemented new tracking system that cut Lead-Time from 14 days to 5 days

Typical job title: "Supply Chain Consultants"

Also try searching for:

Logistics Consultant Supply Chain Manager Operations Manager Procurement Specialist Supply Chain Analyst Logistics Manager Operations Consultant

Where to Find Supply Chain Consultants

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a time when you successfully reduced lead time in a complex supply chain?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership in analyzing entire supply chains, implementing major changes, and measuring results. They should mention coordinating with multiple departments and stakeholders.

Q: How do you balance reducing lead time with managing costs?

Expected Answer: Strong answers should show understanding of cost-benefit analysis, ability to prioritize improvements, and experience making strategic decisions that benefit both speed and budget.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods have you used to track and measure lead times?

Expected Answer: Candidates should mention specific tracking tools, data collection methods, and experience creating reports to monitor delivery performance.

Q: How do you identify bottlenecks in the supply chain that affect lead time?

Expected Answer: Look for systematic approaches to problem-solving, experience with process mapping, and ability to analyze data to find problems in the delivery process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What factors can affect lead time?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic factors like shipping distances, customs clearance, warehouse processing time, and supplier delays.

Q: How would you calculate lead time for an order?

Expected Answer: Should understand the basic concept of measuring time from order placement to delivery and be able to explain simple tracking methods.