FMCG Distribution Manager

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced FMCG Distribution Manager to oversee and optimize distribution in Paarl, Western Cape. You will lead warehousing, transportation and inventory, while driving cost reductions and service levels across the network.

Candidate must have 6+ years in distribution management within FMCG, plus strong WMS/ERP skills. A driver’s license and ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics or related field.
• 6+ years in distribution management within FMCG or similar sector.
• Experience leading warehousing and transportation operations.
• Strong knowledge of inventory management and logistics optimization.
• Proficiency with WMS and ERP software.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the distribution network for warehousing and transport.
• Develop strategies to meet business objectives and customer demand.
• Lead and mentor warehouse and logistics staff; ensure safety.
• Oversee inbound/outbound flow and accuracy of goods.
• Negotiate with 3PLs and suppliers; manage contracts.
• Maintain inventory controls to minimize stockouts/overstock.
• Analyze costs and drive savings and efficiency improvements.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental rules.
• Monitor KPIs and report performance to senior management.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement and operations for seamless supply chain.

Skills

Distribution management

Team leadership

Inventory management

Logistics optimization

WMS proficiency

ERP software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in SCM/Logistics

Tools

WMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is looking for an experienced and strategic FMCG Distribution Manager to oversee and optimize distribution operations in the Paarl, Western Cape region. This critical role is responsible for ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of products to various distribution points, managing warehouse operations, and maintaining strong relationships with logistics partners. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in distribution management, a deep understanding of supply chain logistics, and strong leadership capabilities. You will be instrumental in streamlining distribution processes, reducing costs, and enhancing overall operational efficiency for our client's business in the Paarl area and surrounding regions.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and optimize all aspects of the distribution network, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory management. Develop and implement effective distribution strategies to meet business objectives and customer demands. Lead and mentor a team of warehouse and logistics staff, ensuring high performance and adherence to safety standards. Oversee the efficient inbound and outbound flow of goods, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. Negotiate and manage contracts with third-party logistics providers and suppliers. Implement and maintain robust inventory control systems to minimize stockouts and overstock situations. Analyze distribution costs and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for distribution operations and report on performance to senior management. Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the distribution department. Collaborate closely with sales, procurement, and operations teams to ensure seamless supply chain integration.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in distribution management, with a strong focus on the FMCG sector . Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale warehousing and transportation operations. Proven ability to lead and develop a team. Strong understanding of supply chain principles, inventory management, and logistics optimization. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Proficiency in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Knowledge of the local logistics landscape in Paarl, Western Cape is advantageous. Ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. A valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided, along with opportunities for professional development and advancement within a growing organization. This role provides a significant opportunity to shape and drive distribution excellence for our client in the Paarl region.