Logistics and Distribution Planner

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual salary package

Medical aid and pension benefits

Leave and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Employee product discounts

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a meticulous Logistics and Distribution Planner to optimize the retail distribution network across Welkom and the Free State region. The role focuses on demand analysis, inventory forecasting, and coordinating transportation to meet service levels.

You will collaborate with procurement, sales and operations to align logistics activities with business goals and drive cost-efficient distribution. A strong analytical mindset and ERP/TMS/WMS proficiency are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in logistics planning, distribution, or supply chain management.
• Strong inventory management and demand forecasting knowledge.
• Experience with TMS and WMS systems.
• Proficiency in ERP software and data analytics.
• Bachelor’s degree in logistics or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute logistics and distribution plans to meet demand and service level agreements.
• Forecast inventory requirements by analyzing sales data and market trends.
• Coordinate with transportation providers for inbound and outbound shipments.
• Monitor warehouse and retail inventory to prevent stockouts and excess stock.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales and retail teams to align activities with goals.
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and cut costs.
• Prepare regular reports on distribution performance and transportation costs.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, safety standards and company policies.
• Resolve logistics issues with minimal operational impact.
• Optimize routing and delivery schedules to reduce transit times.

Skills

Logistics planning

Forecasting

Inventory management

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration

Tools

TMS

WMS

ERP systems

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and expanding retail group, is seeking a meticulous and forward-thinking Logistics and Distribution Planner to join their operations in Welkom, Free State. This critical role will involve the strategic planning and optimization of our distribution network, ensuring the efficient and timely flow of goods from suppliers to our various retail outlets and distribution centers. You will be responsible for analyzing demand, forecasting inventory needs, and coordinating transportation to meet business objectives. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the core supply chain functions of a well-established company and play a key role in driving operational excellence within the Free State region. We pride ourselves on a collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized. Become an integral part of our success story and help us deliver quality products to our customers efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute logistics and distribution plans to meet company demand and service level agreements.


• Analyze sales data and market trends to forecast inventory requirements and optimize stock levels across the network.


• Coordinate with transportation providers to schedule and manage inbound and outbound shipments, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timeliness.


• Monitor inventory levels in warehouses and retail locations, implementing strategies to prevent stockouts and minimize excess inventory.


• Collaborate with procurement, sales, and retail operations teams to ensure alignment of supply chain activities with business goals.


• Identify and implement process improvements within the logistics and distribution functions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.


• Prepare regular reports on distribution performance, inventory status, and transportation costs for management review.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, safety standards, and company policies.


• Resolve any logistical issues or disruptions that may arise, ensuring minimal impact on operations.


• Optimize routing and delivery schedules to improve efficiency and reduce transit times.

Requirements

• Proven experience in logistics planning, distribution, or supply chain management, preferably in a retail environment.


• Strong understanding of inventory management principles and demand forecasting techniques.


• Proficiency in using logistics planning software and ERP systems.


• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.


• Strong organizational and time-management abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities.


• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, to collaborate with various internal teams and external partners.


• A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.


• Experience with transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS).


• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding environment.


• Familiarity with the logistics landscape in the Welkom and surrounding Free State areas is advantageous.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary based on experience and qualifications.


• Permanent, full-time position within a stable and growing company.


• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits.


• Generous annual leave and company-allocated holidays.


• Opportunities for professional development and further training in logistics and supply chain management.


• Work within a supportive and experienced logistics team.


• Exposure to diverse aspects of supply chain operations.


• Potential for career progression within the organization.


• Employee discounts on company products.


• Contribute significantly to the efficient operation of retail distribution in Welkom.