Agricultural Supply Chain Manager - Food Production Logistics

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Annual leave & sick leave

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Agricultural Supply Chain Manager to oversee Soweto/Gauteng operations. You will manage procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution for agricultural inputs and outputs, optimizing inventory and costs while leading a team.

You will coordinate with farmers, suppliers, and transporters, negotiate contracts, and ensure food safety and quality standards. Strong communication and leadership are essential.

Qualifications

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain management, preferably in agricultural or food production.
• Proven track record in logistics, inventory management, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong understanding of agricultural products and their handling requirements.
• Proficiency in supply chain software and ERP systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication abilities.
• Experience in managing teams and driving operational improvements.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of the Soweto area and its logistical networks is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end agricultural supply chain including procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
• Develop inventory strategies to ensure product availability and minimize spoilage.
• Coordinate with farmers, suppliers, and transporters for timely, cost-effective delivery.
• Negotiate contracts and maintain relationships with suppliers and service providers.
• Monitor supply chain performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and industry standards.
• Utilize SCM software to track shipments and analyze data.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget and seek cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team to foster high performance.
• Contribute to strategic planning for supply chain enhancements and growth.

Skills

Logistics

Inventory management

Supplier relationship management

Negotiation

Data analysis

Team leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Budget management

Education

Degree in Supply Chain Management/Logistics/Business Administration/Agriculture or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the food production industry, is seeking an experienced Agricultural Supply Chain Manager to oversee their operations in **Soweto, Gauteng**. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient and effective flow of agricultural products from farm to processing and distribution. You will be responsible for managing logistics, optimizing inventory, coordinating with suppliers and stakeholders, and implementing strategies to enhance the overall supply chain performance. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of agricultural production cycles, logistics management, and cost control measures. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring timely delivery of quality agricultural inputs and outputs, minimizing waste, and maintaining strong relationships across the supply chain. We are looking for a highly organized and proactive individual with excellent leadership and problem-solving skills, dedicated to optimizing agricultural supply chains within the **Soweto, Gauteng** region. This position offers a substantial opportunity to impact operational efficiency and profitability in a dynamic sector. Your strategic planning and execution will drive success in a vital industry. The role requires a hands-on approach and strong communication abilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the end-to-end agricultural supply chain, including procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
• Develop and implement efficient inventory management strategies to ensure product availability and minimize spoilage.
• Coordinate with farmers, suppliers, and transportation providers to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.
• Negotiate contracts and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers.
• Monitor supply chain performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, quality standards, and industry best practices.
• Utilize supply chain management software to track shipments, manage inventory, and analyze data.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget, identifying opportunities for cost savings.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Contribute to strategic planning for supply chain improvements and business growth.

Requirements

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Agriculture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain management, preferably within the agricultural or food production industry.
• Proven track record in logistics, inventory management, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong understanding of agricultural products and their handling requirements.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and ERP systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong negotiation and communication abilities.
• Experience in managing teams and driving operational improvements.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of the **Soweto, Gauteng** area and its logistical networks is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain management.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave allowances.
• Exposure to a vital and dynamic industry sector.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Significant responsibility and opportunity for career growth.
• Direct impact on the efficiency and success of food production operations.
• Access to modern logistics and inventory management tools.
• Stable employment with a reputable company.