Head of Distribution and Logistics

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 presents a high-impact opportunity for a Head of Distribution and Logistics to oversee all distribution networks for the Pietermaritzburg base. The role demands strategic oversight of warehousing, transportation, and inventory while aligning logistics with business goals.

You will lead a large team, implement modern distribution solutions, monitor KPIs, and drive cost efficiency within a hybrid work setting in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related.
• Master's degree highly desirable.
• 10+ years in logistics and supply chain, with at least 5 years in senior leadership.
• Experience in FMCG distribution networks.
• Proven strategic logistics solution implementation.
• ERP and WMS expertise.
• Strong leadership and change management.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg; hybrid work.

Responsibilities

• Lead all distribution and logistics operations including warehousing and transport.
• Develop strategic plans to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.
• Manage a team of logistics professionals with mentorship and performance reviews.
• Set and monitor KPIs for distribution networks.
• Maintain inventory control systems to optimize stock and minimize shrinkage.
• Negotiate contracts with 3PLs, carriers, and suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and transportation regs.
• Collaborate with sales, manufacturing, and procurement to align logistics.
• Leverage tech to improve supply chain visibility and efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance service quality and customer satisfaction.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Change management

Data analysis

ERP software

WMS software

Negotiation

Communication

Budget management

Fleet management

Team management

Education

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

Master's degree

Tools

ERP systems

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Head of Distribution and Logistics to oversee all distribution networks and supply chain operations for their Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA base. This senior management position is crucial for optimizing the flow of goods from production to end consumers, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative logistics strategies, managing a large team, and driving operational excellence. This role offers a unique opportunity to significantly impact the company's market position and profitability. We are looking for a transformational leader with a comprehensive understanding of modern distribution and logistics challenges and solutions in the South African context.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the company's distribution and logistics operations, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce lead times, and minimize costs.
• Oversee a team of logistics professionals, providing mentorship, guidance, and performance management.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of distribution networks.
• Implement and maintain robust inventory control systems to ensure optimal stock levels and minimize shrinkage.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with third-party logistics providers, carriers, and suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and transportation regulations.
• Collaborate with sales, manufacturing, and procurement teams to align logistics strategies with business objectives.
• Identify and leverage technological advancements to improve supply chain visibility and operational efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service quality and customer satisfaction.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in logistics and supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership capacity.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale distribution networks and complex supply chains within the FMCG sector.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing strategic logistics solutions.
• Expertise in transportation management, warehousing, inventory control, and fleet management.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and change management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strong understanding of data analysis tools.
• Proficiency in relevant ERP and WMS software.
• Exceptional negotiation and communication skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA, and comfortable with a hybrid working arrangement.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a provident fund, and potential performance bonuses. Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a dynamic and leading FMCG organization are abundant. This is an excellent opportunity to lead significant operations from our Pietermaritzburg hub.