Logistics Head

VSL PowerHive; Chennai; On-site; INR 4,000,000 - 7,000,000; Full time

Job summary

VSL PowerHive is seeking a Head of Logistics (BESS Supply Chain) to lead end-to-end logistics for battery energy storage systems. You will manage import/export, domestic transport, project dispatch, and regulatory compliance, while optimizing costs and ensuring on-time delivery of critical components.

The role requires 12–15 years in logistics/EXIM, with strong knowledge of international trade regulations and hazardous cargo handling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Supply Chain / Logistics / Operations.
• MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (Preferred).
• 12–15 years of experience in logistics & EXIM, preferably in BESS / Battery/Solar / EPC / Heavy Engineering.
• Strong knowledge of international trade regulations and hazardous cargo handling.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute logistics strategy aligned with BESS manufacturing and project timelines.
• Lead import logistics for Li-ion cells and critical components (air/sea freight, customs clearance).
• Manage EXIM compliance including DGFT, customs, hazardous cargo regulations, and documentation.
• Oversee domestic transportation for inbound materials and outbound finished BESS containers.
• Plan heavy-lift and over-dimensional cargo (ODC) movement for project sites.
• Drive freight cost optimization through negotiation, rate contracts, and consolidation strategies.
• Ensure adherence to project dispatch schedules and site delivery commitments.
• Implement logistics risk mitigation strategies (port congestion, geopolitical risk, regulatory delays).
• Lead 3PL/4PL partners, CHA, freight forwarders, and transporters.
• Develop logistics KPIs dashboard and present monthly performance review to leadership.

Skills

Strategic planning

Negotiation

Risk management

Stakeholder mgmt

Data-driven decisions

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Supply Chain

MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (Preferred)

Job description

Department: Supply Chain

Reporting To: Head Supply Chain & commercial

Location: Corporate Office / Manufacturing Site

1. Role Purpose

The Head – Logistics (BESS Supply Chain) is responsible for leading end-to-end logistics operations for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) manufacturing and projects. The role ensures efficient import/export management, domestic transportation, project dispatch planning, regulatory compliance, cost optimization, and on-time delivery of critical components such as Li-ion cells, PCS, containers, transformers, and balance of plant.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute logistics strategy aligned with BESS manufacturing and project timelines.
• Lead import logistics for Li-ion cells and critical components (air/sea freight, customs clearance).
• Manage EXIM compliance including DGFT, customs, hazardous cargo regulations, and documentation.
• Oversee domestic transportation for inbound materials and outbound finished BESS containers.
• Plan heavy-lift and over-dimensional cargo (ODC) movement for project sites.
• Drive freight cost optimization through negotiation, rate contracts, and consolidation strategies.
• Ensure adherence to project dispatch schedules and site delivery commitments.
• Implement logistics risk mitigation strategies (port congestion, geopolitical risk, regulatory delays).
• Lead 3PL/4PL partners, CHA, freight forwarders, and transporters.
• Develop logistics KPIs dashboard and present monthly performance review to leadership.

3. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-Time Delivery (OTIF) – Inbound & Outbound
• Freight Cost per MWh / per Container
• Customs Clearance Lead Time
• Logistics Cost as % of Revenue
• Damage-Free Delivery Rate
• Import/Export Compliance Score
• Project Dispatch Adherence

4. Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering / Supply Chain / Logistics / Operations

MBA in Operations / Supply Chain (Preferred)

12–15 years of experience in logistics & EXIM, preferably in BESS / Battery/Solar / EPC / Heavy Engineering

Strong knowledge of international trade regulations and hazardous cargo handling

Experience managing large-scale project logistics and ODC movement

5. Leadership & Core Competencies

• Strategic logistics planning capability
• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen
• Risk management & contingency planning
• Stakeholder management across projects, sourcing, and finance
• Data-driven decision-making mindset
• Team leadership and performance management