Senior Warehouse Operations Manager (Remote)

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 193,000 - 385,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive pay package

Health insurance

Generous leave

International development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Warehouse Operations Manager to lead a remote network of warehouse facilities across South Africa. You will drive strategic planning, implement WMS improvements, and oversee cost and productivity initiatives from a centralized leadership role.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in warehouse leadership, strong experience with WMS and automation, and exceptional remote team management and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in warehouse/distribution management, with 5+ years leading multiple sites.
• Proven experience implementing and optimizing WMS and automation.
• Track record of delivering cost savings and efficiency gains in large-scale warehouses.
• Strong understanding of inventory, logistics, and data-driven decision making.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and remote team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee strategic planning and daily ops for multiple warehouses, ensuring performance and efficiency.
• Develop and refine WMS and processes to improve accuracy, fulfillment, and throughput.
• Drive cost reduction, waste elimination, and productivity improvements.
• Enforce health, safety, and security protocols across locations.
• Lead remote site managers and supervisors to high performance and accountability.
• Develop operating budgets and manage expenses to meet targets.
• Evaluate and implement warehouse technologies and automation to scale operations.
• Analyze performance metrics, report findings, and advise senior leadership.
• Collaborate with procurement, logistics, and retail to align strategy.
• Manage staffing, scheduling, and performance management.

Skills

Warehouse leadership

Remote team management

Data analysis

Budget management

Strategic planning

Education

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

Master’s degree a plus

Tools

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

Automation technologies

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent national retail chain, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Warehouse Operations Manager to lead their expanded distribution network. This is a critical, fully remote role, overseeing the strategic direction and operational efficiency of multiple warehouse facilities across South Africa. You will be responsible for developing and implementing best practices in inventory management, order fulfillment, safety, and workforce productivity. This position requires exceptional leadership skills, a deep understanding of warehouse automation, and a proven track record of driving significant cost savings and efficiency improvements in large-scale operations. You will manage a team of remote site managers and operational leads, ensuring consistent high performance and adherence to company standards. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader, adept at managing complex supply chains and leveraging technology to achieve operational excellence from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the strategic planning and daily operations of multiple warehouse facilities, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Develop, implement, and refine warehouse management systems (WMS) and processes to enhance inventory accuracy, order fulfillment rates, and throughput.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, waste elimination, and productivity gains.
• Establish and enforce stringent health, safety, and security protocols across all warehouse locations, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
• Manage and mentor a team of remote site managers and operational supervisors, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Develop operational budgets and manage expenses to meet financial targets.
• Evaluate and implement new warehouse technologies and automation solutions to improve efficiency and scalability.
• Analyze performance metrics, generate comprehensive reports, and present findings and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including procurement, logistics, and retail operations, to align warehouse strategies with overall business objectives.
• Ensure efficient labor management, including staffing levels, scheduling, and performance management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in warehouse and distribution center management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing multiple sites.
• Proven experience in implementing and optimizing Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and automation technologies.
• Demonstrated success in driving significant operational improvements and cost savings in large-scale warehouse environments.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles, inventory management, and logistics operations.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills, with experience managing remote teams.
• Proficiency in data analysis, financial management, and strategic planning.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Ability to work autonomously and lead effectively in a fully remote capacity.
• Familiarity with the Eastern Cape's logistical infrastructure would be beneficial but not essential for this remote role.
• Must possess a reliable internet connection and a suitable home office environment.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package including a substantial base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive executive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Significant paid time off and annual leave.
• Opportunities for international professional development and conferences.
• Annual allowance for home office equipment and technology upgrades.
• The opportunity to significantly impact the supply chain operations of a major retail brand from a remote location.