Regional Distribution Manager

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 127,000 - 191,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive executive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual performance bonus

Company car

Incentives

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Regional Distribution Manager to oversee distribution operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will plan strategically, manage warehousing, inventory, and transportation, and drive continuous improvement.

You will lead a team of distribution professionals, ensure safety standards, control costs, and align with cross-functional partners to achieve KPIs and financial targets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field; Master's preferred.
• 8–10 years in distribution management, warehouse operations, and logistics.
• Strong leadership with experience managing large teams and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for regional distribution operations.
• Lead warehouse operations: receiving, storage, order fulfillment, and shipping.
• Oversee inventory management to minimize stockouts and carrying costs.
• Optimize transportation logistics: carrier management, route planning, cost control.
• Maintain health, safety, and environmental standards across facilities.
• Mentor and develop a high-performance distribution team.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage budgets and control expenses to meet targets.
• Collaborate with retail operations, procurement, and merchandising.
• Ensure timely and accurate replenishment to stores.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Budget management

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management / Logistics / Business Administration

Master's degree preferred

Tools

WMS

TMS

Inventory control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major national retail chain, is seeking a highly accomplished and results-driven Regional Distribution Manager to oversee their distribution operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This senior role is responsible for the strategic planning, efficient execution, and continuous improvement of all warehousing and logistics functions within the region. You will lead a team of distribution professionals, manage inventory, optimize transportation, and ensure the timely and cost-effective flow of goods to retail outlets. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in supply chain management, strong leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of warehouse operations and distribution networks. This is a critical leadership position, vital to the success of Our client's operations in the region. You will be instrumental in driving operational excellence, implementing best practices, and achieving key performance targets. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex operations and motivate teams to achieve outstanding results. Your leadership will directly impact customer satisfaction and profitability across the Eastern Cape. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering a culture of safety and efficiency within the distribution centers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic plans for regional distribution operations to meet business objectives.
• Manage and lead all aspects of warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, order fulfillment, and shipping.
• Oversee inventory management to ensure accuracy, minimize stockouts, and reduce carrying costs.
• Optimize transportation logistics, including carrier management, route planning, and cost control.
• Implement and maintain high standards of health, safety, and environmental compliance within all distribution facilities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of distribution center staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage operational budgets and control expenses to achieve financial targets.
• Collaborate with other departments, including retail operations, procurement, and merchandising, to ensure alignment.
• Ensure the timely and accurate replenishment of inventory to retail stores within the region.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in distribution management, warehouse operations, and logistics.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage and motivate large teams.
• In-depth knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Strong understanding of inventory control principles and best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans and operational improvements.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with budget management and financial control.
• Familiarity with the logistics landscape in the Eastern Cape , particularly around Queenstown , is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund, and an annual performance-based bonus.
• Opportunities for further professional development, leadership training, and advancement within a national organization are extensive.
• Employees benefit from a company car, performance incentives, and a supportive corporate culture that values innovation and employee growth.
• We provide access to cutting-edge supply chain technology and foster a dynamic work environment.
• Join a leading retailer and make a significant impact on their supply chain operations.
• This is a challenging and rewarding role for an experienced distribution leader in the Eastern Cape .