Job Purpose
The Courier Operations Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the courier team to ensure parcels are collected, sorted, routed, and delivered on time, in full, and in accordance with company service level agreements (SLAs). This role requires strong leadership, operational planning, and problem-solving skills to manage driver performance, address delivery challenges, and ensure customer satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Management
- Supervise and coordinate the day-to-day activities of couriers, drivers, and support staff.
- Monitor parcel flow from receipt to delivery, ensuring all shipments are processed within SLA.
- Allocate and optimise delivery routes for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Ensure proper use and upkeep of vehicles, scanners, and related equipment.
- Monitor courier GPS tracking and performance to ensure adherence to assigned routes and schedules.
- Oversee the loading and unloading of parcels to prevent loss or damage.
Staff Supervision & Performance Management
- Lead, motivate, and discipline a team of couriers to achieve operational targets.
- Conduct daily operational briefings and debriefs.
- Train new staff on operational procedures, safety, and customer service standards.
- Track individual and team KPIs (e.g., on-time delivery rates, parcel accuracy, incident reporting).
- Identify performance issues and take corrective actions promptly.
Customer Service & Issue Resolution
- Manage escalated delivery issues, including delays, misroutes, or damaged parcels.
- Maintain communication with clients and customer service teams to resolve complaints.
- Implement corrective measures to prevent recurring delivery problems.
Compliance & Safety
- Enforce compliance with company policies, operational SOPs, and legal requirements (e.g., road safety regulations).
- Ensure drivers follow occupational health and safety guidelines.
- Monitor and report incidents, accidents, and security breaches.
Reporting & Administration
- Maintain accurate operational records (delivery logs, route sheets, fuel usage, driver attendance).
- Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly performance reports for management.
- Manage overtime approvals and roster planning.
- Monitor operational costs and suggest efficiency improvements.
Skills & Competencies:
Technical Skills
- Knowledge of courier and logistics processes.
- Route planning and fleet scheduling experience.
- Ability to use courier tracking systems, GPS software, and MS Office Suite.
Core Competencies:
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Problem-solving and conflict resolution ability.
- High attention to detail and organisational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Customer-focused mindset.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Matric / Grade 12 (essential).
- Diploma or Certificate in Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field (advantageous).
- Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in courier or logistics operations, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory role.
- Valid driver’s license (Code B/Code 8; Code 10 with PDP advantageous).
- Proven experience in route optimisation and team supervision.