For over a century, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport International (CILT) has served as more than just a professional body—we are the global connective tissue that binds together the world’s logistics, transport, and supply chain community.
With over 33,000 members across more than 100 countries, CILT International represents the collective expertise, innovation, and dedication of professionals who literally keep the world moving. Our role extends far beyond membership numbers; we are the catalyst for knowledge exchange, professional development, and industry advancement on a truly global scale.
CILT’s story began on November 3rd, 1919, at the Savoy Hotel in London, where senior transport professionals, having witnessed the logistical failures of the First World War, were determined to transform the world of logistics and transport. Their vision was prescient: create a professional body that would promote, encourage, and coordinate the study of the science and art of logistics and transport in all its aspects.
That vision, awarded Royal Charter recognition in 1926, has evolved into today’s global network spanning continents and cultures, united by a shared commitment to excellence. The challenges may have evolved from wartime logistics to climate change resilience, from paper-based systems to AI-driven optimisation, but our fundamental purpose remains unchanged: advancing the profession and the professionals who drive global commerce.
Celebrating our global impact
The launch of our International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation on November 3rd, 2024—marking exactly 105 years since CILT’s establishment—represented a watershed moment for our industry. Under the theme “One Network, One Global Community,” this inaugural celebration recognised the interconnected nature of our industry and its vital role in connecting people, businesses, and communities worldwide.
The United Nations estimates that more than 450 million supply chain, logistics, and transportation professionals are employed globally—nearly 13% of the world’s total working population. Our International Day celebrates this massive community that ensures commerce functions smoothly and enables global mobility.
The global response was extraordinary. From special launch events in Sri Lanka to the Career and Life Formula (CALF) Programme led by Women in Logistics and Transport, from specialised webinar eBooks to regional networking initiatives, our global community demonstrated the power of unified celebration and shared purpose.
Raising professional standards globally
One of our most significant recent initiatives has been establishing the International Education Standards Committee (IESC). This committee maintains and develops CILT’s professional status and qualifications across the Institute, ensuring members receive world-class education and certification regardless of geographic location.
The IESC represents our commitment to standardising excellence while respecting regional differences and needs. In an increasingly globalised economy, having consistent professional standards recognised worldwide is crucial for both individual career development and industry credibility.
Subheading: Connecting communities through content
The launch of our flagship digital publication, “The World in Motion” (Motion magazine), represents another significant milestone. Published twice yearly with regular digital updates, Motion serves as a global platform for thought leadership, innovation, and knowledge exchange, reaching our entire network of transport planners, logistics professionals, supply chain directors, government officials, industry consultants, academic researchers, and students.
The magazine’s inaugural edition demonstrates our global community’s expertise breadth, featuring exclusive interviews with industry leaders, profiles of innovative startups, insights into regional developments like urban mobility in Africa and rail freight innovation in Sri Lanka, and stories from professionals worldwide. Its translation into Mandarin underscores our commitment to truly global accessibility.
Motion serves as more than just a publication—it’s a bridge connecting our diverse global community, bringing together different perspectives and innovative solutions that shape our industry’s future. In an increasingly interconnected world, the need for shared knowledge and expertise has never been greater.
Leading industry transformation
As Global President, my vision for CILT International extends beyond maintaining current excellence—it’s about positioning our organisation and members to lead industry transformations ahead. Climate change, digital transformation, urbanisation, and changing consumer expectations are reshaping our industry fundamentally.
CILT’s role is ensuring our global community doesn’t just prepare for these changes but leads them. This means continuing to develop relevant educational programs, creating platforms for knowledge sharing, fostering innovation, and maintaining the high professional standards that have defined our organisation for over a century.
The logistics, transport, and supply chain industry touches every aspect of human life. CILT International’s vital role is ensuring this community remains connected, educated, and inspired to meet tomorrow’s challenges with the same determination and innovation our founders demonstrated. Through our global network, educational initiatives, knowledge-sharing platforms, and commitment to professional excellence, we continue keeping the world moving and communities thriving.
