Area Operations Director

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Area Operations Director to lead warehousing, transportation and distribution across the Tembisa, Gauteng region. You will drive efficiency, cost control and service levels while mentoring a team of operations managers and staff.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years in logistics operations, strong change leadership, and a track record with Lean/Six Sigma. A strategic mindset and financial acumen are essential for overseeing multiple facilities and key stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations management within logistics and large-scale environments.
• Proven track record leading large teams and managing complex facilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational activities in the Tembisa, Gauteng area including warehousing, transport, and distribution.
• Develop and implement strategies to boost efficiency, cut costs, and raise service levels.
• Lead and develop a large team of managers and staff with strong engagement.
• Manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure safety, security, and regulatory compliance across sites.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement and customer service to hit business goals.
• Analyze data to spot trends, issues, and opportunities for expansion.
• Manage relationships with vendors, carriers and clients.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Budget management

Change management

Negotiation

Problem-solving

WMS

TMS

ERP

Education

Master's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the logistics sector, is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Area Operations Director to spearhead operations in the bustling Tembisa, Gauteng area. This senior management position requires an individual with extensive experience in supply chain management, process optimization, and team leadership. You will be responsible for driving operational excellence, ensuring the efficient and cost-effective flow of goods, and maintaining the highest standards of service delivery across multiple facilities. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset, exceptional analytical skills, and a proven ability to manage complex operations and large teams. This role is critical to the company's continued growth and success in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct all operational activities within the designated Tembisa, Gauteng area, including warehousing, transportation, and distribution.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operations managers and staff, ensuring high levels of performance and engagement.
• Manage departmental budgets, monitor financial performance, and identify opportunities for cost savings.
• Ensure strict adherence to all safety, security, and regulatory compliance standards within all operational sites.
• Implement best practices in supply chain management and continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, procurement, and customer service, to achieve business objectives.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, potential issues, and areas for strategic development.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including vendors, carriers, and clients.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations management, with a significant focus on logistics and supply chain within a large-scale environment.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large operational teams and complex facilities.
• Demonstrated expertise in process improvement methodologies and change management.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant operational software and systems (e.g., WMS, TMS, ERP).
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Tembisa, Gauteng area.

Benefits

• attractive base salary
• significant performance-based bonuses
• comprehensive health insurance
• retirement savings plan
• paid time off
• substantial opportunities for career advancement within a globally recognized organization

The company is committed to fostering a supportive work environment and invests in the ongoing development of its employees.