Head of Operations - Logistics and Distribution

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Health & retirement benefits

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head of Operations in Mahikeng to lead and optimize all logistics and distribution activities across the network. You will drive efficiency, implement cutting-edge technologies, and oversee a team of operations professionals to ensure on-time, cost-effective delivery.

The role requires a strong background in supply chain strategy, warehouse and fleet management, and ERP/TMS expertise, with a proven leadership track record.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration or related field.
• Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• 8–10 years in logistics/distribution operations management.
• Proven track record of optimizing logistics networks.
• Strong knowledge of WMS, TMS and ERP systems.
• Leadership and staff development experience.
• Strong analytical and budgeting abilities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive operational strategy for all logistics and distribution functions.
• Oversee warehouse, inventory, order fulfillment, fleet, and transportation planning operations.
• Lead and develop a team of operations managers and staff.
• Implement robust supply chain processes for timely, cost-effective delivery.
• Drive adoption of technology and automation for efficiency.
• Monitor KPIs and use data-driven strategies for optimization.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage operational budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Build relationships with 3PLs, carriers and suppliers.
• Collaborate with sales, customer service, and planning teams.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Operations management

Budget management

Data analytics

WMS/TMS/ERP

Team development

Vendor relations

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain / Logistics

Master's degree

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national logistics and distribution company, is seeking a strategic and highly experienced Head of Operations. This senior leadership position, based in Mahikeng, North West, will be responsible for the overall management and optimization of all logistics and distribution operations across the company's network. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of supply chain management, warehousing, fleet management, and transportation logistics. You will lead a dedicated team, drive operational efficiency, implement cutting-edge technologies, and ensure the seamless flow of goods to meet customer demands. This is a critical role for a seasoned professional looking to shape the future of logistics operations for a prominent organization in Mahikeng.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive operational strategy for all logistics and distribution functions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Oversee daily operations, including warehouse management, inventory control, order fulfillment, fleet management, and transportation planning.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of operations managers, supervisors, and staff to foster a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Implement and manage robust supply chain processes, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.
• Drive the adoption of technology and automation solutions to improve operational efficiency and visibility.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), analyze operational data, and implement data-driven strategies for optimization.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory standards within warehousing and transportation operations.
• Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with third-party logistics providers, carriers, and key suppliers.
• Collaborate with sales, customer service, and planning departments to ensure alignment with business needs.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a significant advantage.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in logistics and distribution operations management, with a strong emphasis on supply chain strategy.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex logistics networks and driving operational improvements.
• Extensive knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and ERP systems.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills, with experience in mentoring and developing operational staff.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budget management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with fleet management and transportation regulations.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, demanding environment.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, a substantial performance-based bonus, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and excellent opportunities for professional development.
• Additional benefits include life insurance and opportunities for advanced training.

Join a forward-thinking company committed to operational excellence.