Distribution Centre Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Training and development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Distribution Centre Operations Manager for a major retail distributor in Upington, Northern Cape. You will oversee receiving, storage, order picking, packing, and shipping, driving efficiency, safety, and cost control.

The role requires 6–8 years of senior warehouse management, proven leadership of large teams, and strong Lean/Six Sigma expertise. You will optimize layouts, manage budgets, and ensure SLA performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 6–8 years of progressive warehouse and distribution centre management experience.
• Proven leadership of large teams and complex warehouse operations in retail/FMCG.
• Strong knowledge of WMS and logistics technologies.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma.

Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all daily activities within the distribution centre, ensuring operational efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of warehouse supervisors and associates to achieve performance goals.
• Implement and maintain high standards of health, safety, and security within the facility.
• Optimize warehouse layout, workflows, and resource allocation to maximize productivity and minimize costs.
• Oversee inventory management processes, including cycle counting, stock accuracy, and loss prevention.
• Ensure timely and accurate order fulfillment, meeting customer service level agreements (SLAs).
• Manage transportation coordination and relationships with carriers to ensure efficient outbound logistics.
• Implement and champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage the operational budget for the distribution centre, controlling costs and identifying savings opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and company policies.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and drive performance improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data-driven decisions

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics / Supply Chain / Business Administration

Tools

WMS

Logistics technologies

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major national retail distributor, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Distribution Centre Operations Manager to lead their facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This leadership role is responsible for the overall efficiency, productivity, and safety of the distribution centre. You will oversee all warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, order picking, packing, and shipping, ensuring that operational targets are met and exceeded. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in managing large-scale warehouse operations, excellent leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies. This is a critical role for maintaining the smooth flow of goods to retail outlets.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all daily activities within the distribution centre, ensuring operational efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of warehouse supervisors and associates to achieve performance goals.
• Implement and maintain high standards of health, safety, and security within the facility.
• Optimize warehouse layout, workflows, and resource allocation to maximize productivity and minimize costs.
• Oversee inventory management processes, including cycle counting, stock accuracy, and loss prevention.
• Ensure timely and accurate order fulfillment, meeting customer service level agreements (SLAs).
• Manage transportation coordination and relationships with carriers to ensure efficient outbound logistics.
• Implement and champion continuous improvement initiatives using Lean/Six Sigma methodologies.
• Manage the operational budget for the distribution centre, controlling costs and identifying savings opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and company policies.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and drive performance improvements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of progressive experience in warehouse and distribution centre management.
• Proven experience in managing large teams and complex warehouse operations, preferably in a retail or FMCG environment.
• Strong understanding of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and other relevant logistics technologies.
• Demonstrated experience with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid and a provident fund.
• This role offers the opportunity to lead a significant operation in a key regional hub.
• We provide excellent training and professional development opportunities to support your career growth.
• Join a dynamic and stable organization committed to operational excellence and employee success.
• This position is based in Upington, Northern Cape .