Global Head of Supply Chain Operations

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,080,000 - 1,320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive stock option plan

Global health and wellness benefits

Remote work stipend

Annual development and travel budget

Significant performance-based bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Global Head of Supply Chain Operations for a fully remote executive role based in Richards Bay, SA. You will lead a worldwide team, shaping end-to-end supply chain strategy across procurement, logistics, inventory, and distribution.

The ideal candidate has 15+ years in global SCM with a strong leadership track record, expertise in international trade, and a drive to innovate and optimize a complex, dispersed network. Remote collaboration is essential.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in SCM, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field.
• 15+ years of global supply chain experience, with at least 7 years in senior leadership.
• Proven track record transforming and optimizing complex international supply chains.
• Deep understanding of global logistics, trade finance, and international compliance.
• Exceptional leadership and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in advanced planning/execution software.
• Experience managing large operational budgets and delivering cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global supply chain strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee procurement, sourcing, logistics, warehousing and distribution.
• Lead and mentor an international team of supply chain professionals.
• Drive significant cost reductions and efficiency improvements.
• Implement and optimize S&OP, WMS and TMS technologies.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and manage relationships for reliable supply.
• Develop risk management strategies for global supply chains.
• Ensure compliance with international trade regulations and customs.

Skills

Global supply chain leadership

Strategic thinking

Cost optimization

Cross-cultural communication

Stakeholder collaboration

Education

Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

S&OP systems

WMS/TMS software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading international manufacturer with significant operations in **Richards Bay**, is looking for an exceptional and visionary Global Head of Supply Chain Operations. This is a fully remote, executive leadership position responsible for the strategic direction, development, and execution of all global supply chain activities. You will lead a worldwide team, optimizing end-to-end supply chain processes from procurement and logistics to inventory management and distribution. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in international supply chain management, a deep understanding of global trade dynamics, and a proven ability to drive innovation and efficiency across a complex, geographically dispersed network. This role demands a strategic thinker with a strong commercial acumen and the ability to foster robust supplier relationships and internal collaborations. As a **fully remote** position, you will leverage cutting-edge communication and collaboration tools to lead your distributed team effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global supply chain strategy that aligns with the company's overall business objectives.
• Oversee and manage all aspects of the global supply chain, including procurement, sourcing, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
• Lead and mentor a diverse, international team of supply chain professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Drive significant cost reductions and efficiency gains throughout the supply chain network.
• Implement and optimize advanced supply chain technologies and systems (e.g., S&OP, WMS, TMS).
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts to ensure optimal terms and reliable supply.
• Develop robust risk management strategies for the global supply chain.
• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations and customs requirements.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including sales, marketing, and production, to ensure alignment and responsiveness to market needs.
• Champion sustainability and ethical practices throughout the supply chain.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 15+ years of extensive experience in global supply chain management, with a minimum of 7 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully transforming and optimizing complex international supply chains.
• Deep understanding of global logistics, trade finance, and international trade compliance.
• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in advanced supply chain planning and execution software.
• Experience managing large-scale operational budgets and driving significant cost savings.
• This is a **fully remote** position, requiring excellent self-discipline and virtual collaboration skills.
• Familiarity with manufacturing and distribution environments.

Benefits

• An executive-level annual salary of R1,200,000.
• Significant performance-based bonus structure.
• Executive stock option plan.
• Comprehensive global health and wellness benefits package.
• Annual allowance for professional development and travel.
• Generous remote work stipend for home office setup and ongoing expenses.
• Opportunity to shape global supply chain strategy for a leading international brand.