Head of Distribution and Logistics Operations

Placements24; Queenstown; Remote; NZD 266,000 - 426,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work from South Africa

Equity potential

Performance-based bonuses

Health benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Distribution and Logistics Operations to own end-to-end distribution, warehousing, and last-mile delivery in this fully remote executive role across South Africa.

You will lead a large, dispersed team, optimize networks, implement WMS/TMS, negotiate with 3PLs, monitor KPIs, and drive cost savings while maintaining excellent customer service.

The role offers significant bonuses, potential equity, health benefits, and flexible work arrangements.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field.
• 12+ years of distribution/logistics experience, incl. 7+ years in leadership.
• Proven track record in optimizing complex networks and driving cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for distribution and logistics operations.
• Oversee warehousing, inventory management, transportation, and last-mile delivery.
• Lead and develop a large, diverse team of distribution and logistics professionals.
• Optimize networks to reduce transit times, improve delivery accuracy, and minimize costs.
• Implement technology solutions (WMS, TMS, route optimization) to boost efficiency.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with 3PLs and carriers.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and transportation regulations.
• Develop and monitor KPIs and manage budgets/forecasting.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance service levels and customer experience.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Logistics management

Negotiation

Vendor management

Remote team leadership

Data analysis

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in SCM / Logistics / MBA

Tools

WMS

TMS

Route optimization

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading e-commerce and retail conglomerate, is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Head of Distribution and Logistics Operations. This pivotal, fully remote role will be responsible for the end-to-end management of the company's distribution network, warehousing, and last-mile delivery operations across South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in optimizing complex logistics operations, implementing cutting-edge technology, and driving significant cost savings. You will lead a large, geographically dispersed team, develop and execute strategies that enhance efficiency, speed, and reliability of deliveries, and ensure exceptional customer satisfaction. This is a unique opportunity to shape the operational backbone of a rapidly growing organization from anywhere within the country. We are looking for a forward-thinking leader who can navigate the challenges of modern logistics and deliver best-in-class supply chain solutions. Your expertise will be crucial in managing scale and ensuring operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for distribution and logistics operations.
• Oversee all aspects of warehousing, inventory management, transportation, and last-mile delivery.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a large, diverse team of distribution and logistics professionals.
• Optimize logistics networks to reduce transit times, improve delivery accuracy, and minimize costs.
• Implement and leverage technology solutions (e.g., WMS, TMS, route optimization) to enhance operational efficiency.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and carriers.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and transportation regulations.
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for distribution and logistics operations.
• Manage operational budgets, forecasting, and financial performance.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service levels and customer experience.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in distribution and logistics management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience managing large-scale, complex distribution networks and e-commerce logistics.
• Demonstrated success in optimizing operations, reducing costs, and implementing new technologies.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience managing remote teams.
• Excellent negotiation, vendor management, and contract management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of WMS, TMS, route optimization software, and other logistics technologies.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in the retail or e-commerce sector is highly desirable.

Benefits

• This executive-level, fully remote position offers an exceptionally competitive salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and potential for equity participation.
• Comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and generous paid time off are included.
• Employees benefit from unparalleled flexibility, working from their preferred location within South Africa.
• Our client fosters a culture of innovation and empowerment, providing opportunities for professional growth and development, including access to industry-leading conferences and training.
• Join our client and lead the transformation of their distribution and logistics operations on a national scale.