Distribution and Planning Lead - Epping Bakery

PepsiCo; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global food and beverage company is seeking a Distribution and Planning Lead in Cape Town. The role requires extensive logistics experience and leadership skills to manage the distribution of 400,000 loaves daily. Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years' experience in warehousing and distribution, ideally within a unionized environment, and be proficient in logistics systems. This is an opportunity to lead and optimize distribution operations for a reputable organization.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years relevant experience in warehousing and distribution within a unionised environment.
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership position.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a team effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of optimal delivery routes for cost-effective transportation.
• Oversee maintenance and scheduling of delivery vehicles.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Skills

Logistics management

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Education

Logistics, Supply Chain Diploma / Degree

Tools

MS Office

SAP

Job description

Overview

Job title : Distribution and Planning Lead - Epping Bakery

Job Location : Western Cape, Cape Town

Deadline : October 17, 2025

Responsibilities

What we’re looking for :

• We are looking for a Distribution & Planning Lead to join our dynamic team. Responsible for the planning of distributing 400 000 loaves daily to 12 000 customers and balancing the demand from 3 manufacturing facilities.
• The chief custodian of custodian customer service and distribution effectiveness. Interfaces across all areas to ensure that the product is available on an ongoing basis to meets or exceed sales volume plan. Improve customer service and P & L performance. Custodian of fleet safety.

Accountabilities

Operations Management and Distribution

• Lead the design of optimal delivery routes to ensure timely and cost-effective transportation of goods.
• Oversee the maintenance, scheduling, and use of delivery vehicles to ensure they are efficient and reliable.
• Oversee stock levels and ensure that the right amount of inventory is maintained to meet delivery demand.
• Ensure that all distribution activities comply with relevant health and safety regulations.
• Design and drive implementation procedures to minimize the risk of accidents, product damage, or other issues during storage and transportation.
• Identify ways to reduce costs, such as optimizing routes, improving warehouse operations, or reducing fuel consumption.
• Own the distribution budget, including transportation costs, labor, and warehouse expenses.
• Drive continuous delivery network optimisation.

People Growth and Leadership

• Lead and manage distribution structure to ensure smooth operations.
• Set performance goals for the distribution team and regularly assess their performance to maintain high productivity.
• Ensure training to distribution staff on procedures, safety, and efficiency improvements.
• Oversee all Industrial Relations and disciplinary procedures.
• Oversee shift schedules and manage workforce allocation to meet operational needs.

Systems, Procedures and Practices

• Drive implementation of warehouse and transport management systems to streamline operations.
• Ensure compliance with local and international transportation laws, including licenses, permits, and vehicle weight restrictions.
• Design policies and ensure compliance with food safety standards during transportation and storage.
• Ensure that the distribution process complies with environmental regulations, such as minimizing emissions and managing waste.

Relationship Results

• Build and maintain strong relationships, and ensure daily communication with sales department to maximise sales.
• Build and maintain strong and ensure daily communications with the operations team to ensure that the right product is available in full and in time.
• Relationship with IDCs to ensure proper planning of distribution and routes compliance.

Innovation and Improvement

• Implement systems to ensure products with a shorter shelf life are distributed first.
• Identify ways to reduce costs, such as optimizing routes, improving warehouse operations, and optimise costs to serve.

Values

• Customer & Consumer Centric
• Ownership
• Integrity

Qualifications

What will qualify you for the role

• Qualifications: Logistics, Supply Chain Diploma / Degree or similar qualification
• Minimum 10 years relevant experience in warehousing and distribution within a unionised environment.
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership position
• Proficient in MS Office and SAP or equivalent ERP system
• Good communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Drive for results
• Displays “out of the box” thinking
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a team effectively
• FMCG & Food Safety Distribution Experience is essential
• Transportation / Logistics jobs