Buyer (Kzn)

Smart Talent; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Smart Talent seeks a Strategic Operations Director for its KwaZulu-Natal logistics hub, based in Richards Bay. You will lead all aspects of operations, drive efficiency, and shape long-term strategy across warehousing, transport, and inventory management.

The role requires a minimum of 10 years in operations, with senior leadership experience. A hybrid work arrangement is offered, with regional focus on Richards Bay and the surrounding area.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in operations and logistics with at least 5 years in a senior director role.
• Experience in large-scale logistics operations, preferably shipping or freight forwarding.
• Strategic thinking and translating vision into actionable plans.
• Strong leadership and ability to build/manage teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in advanced SCM software and ERP systems.
• Deep understanding of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal region.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching operational strategies.
• Oversee warehousing, transportation, fleet management, and inventory control.
• Lead and develop a high-performing operations team.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage and optimize operational budgets.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, sales, and customer service.
• Monitor KPIs and provide reports to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Oversee implementation of new technologies and systems.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Team building

Analytical thinking

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Master’s degree in Logistics

Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management

MBA or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

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Strategic Operations Director - KZN Logistics Hub

About the Role Our client, a prominent leader in the national logistics and freight forwarding industry, is seeking an experienced and visionary Strategic Operations Director to lead and enhance their extensive operations based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This executive-level position demands a forward-thinking leader with a proven ability to optimize complex supply chains, drive operational efficiency, and ensure superior service delivery across a broad geographical area. The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing and executing strategic initiatives that bolster market competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth. This is a critical leadership role offering the chance to significantly impact the operational success of a key division within a respected organization. Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement overarching operational strategies to align with the company's growth objectives and market demands.
• Oversee all operational functions, including warehousing, transportation, fleet management, and inventory control, ensuring optimal performance.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operations managers and staff, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all operational processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate service quality.
• Manage and optimize operational budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation.
• Collaborate with executive leadership, sales, and customer service teams to ensure seamless integration and achieve business goals.
• Monitor key operational metrics and KPIs, providing regular reports and actionable insights to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Oversee the implementation of new technologies and operational systems to streamline processes and improve decision-making.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in operations and logistics management, with at least 5 years in a senior director-level role.
• Extensive experience in managing large-scale logistics operations, preferably within the shipping or freight forwarding industry.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking and the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Strong leadership qualities with a proven track record of building and managing effective teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in advanced supply chain management software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Deep understanding of the operational landscape in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .

Benefits Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health coverage, and a robust retirement plan. Opportunities for professional growth, executive training, and advancement within the organization are significant. The company culture is dynamic and results-oriented, with a commitment to innovation and employee development. This role offers a Hybrid work arrangement, allowing for strategic input and oversight while maintaining flexibility.