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Reverse Logistics Manager

Also known as: Returns Operations Manager, Reverse Supply Chain Manager, Recommerce Operations Manager, Product Recovery Manager

AI Impact Score

40/100

E-commerce growth has made reverse logistics a strategic priority, with returned goods costing US retailers over $800 billion annually. AI-powered returns processing systems, grading automation, and recommerce platforms are transforming the function, but managing the complexity of thousands of SKUs and condition grades requires seasoned operational leadership.

$65k – $115k

Salary Range

growing

Growth Outlook

48,000

Total Jobs (US)

+12%

Growth Rate

Task Breakdown

Tasks at Risk (3)

Manual returns intake and condition grading for common product categoriesStandard reporting on returns volume and disposition ratesRoutine carrier claim filing for damaged shipments

AI-Enhanced Tasks (4)

AI-powered product condition grading at scaleAutomated disposition routing (refurbish vs. liquidate vs. donate vs. destroy)Predictive returns volume forecasting by SKU and seasonReal-time recommerce platform pricing optimization

Human-Safe Tasks (4)

Designing returns programs that balance cost, sustainability, and customer experienceNegotiating liquidation and recommerce partnershipsManaging relationships with refurbishers, recyclers, and donation partnersDeveloping circular economy strategies for high-value product categories

Current Skills

Returns Processing OperationsInventory Disposition ManagementLiquidation Channel ManagementCarrier Claims ManagementReturns Merchandise Authorization (RMA) Systems

Future-Proof Skills

AI-Powered Returns Sorting and GradingRecommerce Platform Management (B-Stock, Liquidity Services)Circular Economy Program DesignSustainability and EPR ComplianceReturns Analytics and Demand Forecasting