Head of Operations - Logistics and Distribution

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 2.500.000 - 4.800.000; Vollzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Executive bonus program

Equity participation

Top-tier health insurance

Retirement plan

Generous leave policy

Company car and allowances

Executive coaching

Zusammenfassung

Placements24 seeks an accomplished Head of Operations to lead and transform logistics and distribution operations across South Africa. You will steer a large, cross-functional team, manage sizeable budgets, and drive strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency, safety, and service levels.

The role requires a Master’s degree in logistics or business administration, 12+ years in logistics with 7+ years in senior leadership, and a proven track record in large-scale transformation.

Qualifikationen

• Bachelor-level or higher in a relevant field.
• 12+ years in logistics/operations, with leadership experience.
• Experience transforming large-scale networks and driving cost savings.

Aufgaben

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic vision for all logistics and distribution operations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team across multiple sites.
• Oversee warehousing, transportation, and delivery functions.
• Drive efficiency, cost reduction, and service quality improvements across the supply chain.
• Implement advanced logistics technologies to enhance visibility and performance.
• Manage substantial budgets with financial discipline and optimal resource allocation.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers, partners and service providers.
• Ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and business continuity.

Kenntnisse

Leadership

Strategic planning

Supply chain management

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Lean methodologies

Ausbildung

Master's degree in Logistics or MBA

Tools

WMS

TMS

Automation tech

Jobbeschreibung

About the Role

Our client, a leading national logistics and distribution company, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Head of Operations. This senior executive position is responsible for leading and transforming all operational aspects of our logistics and distribution network across South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of supply chain management, advanced logistics strategies, and a proven track record of driving operational excellence and innovation at scale. You will lead a large, multi‑disciplinary team, manage significant budgets, and develop strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of a critical business function and make a substantial impact on the company’s growth and competitive positioning. Your strategic insights and leadership will be pivotal in navigating the complexities of the modern logistics landscape. We are looking for an inspirational leader who can foster a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and customer‑centricity within a fast‑paced environment. This role requires a hybrid work model, blending strategic planning and remote collaboration with essential on‑site oversight and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic vision for all logistics and distribution operations.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team of operational managers and staff across multiple sites.
• Oversee the day‑to‑day management of all warehousing, transportation, and delivery functions.
• Drive operational efficiency, cost reduction, and service quality improvements throughout the supply chain.
• Implement and leverage advanced logistics technologies and systems to enhance visibility, automation, and performance.
• Manage substantial operational budgets, ensuring financial discipline and optimal resource allocation.
• Establish and maintain robust relationships with key suppliers, logistics partners, and service providers.
• Ensure strict compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and transportation regulations.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate operational disruptions and ensure business continuity.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting on operational performance to executive leadership.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence across the department.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including procurement, sales, and customer service, to align operational strategies with business goals.
• Lead major transformation projects aimed at modernizing and optimizing the logistics network.
• Foster a strong focus on safety and promote best practices in workplace health and safety.
• Drive initiatives to enhance employee engagement, talent development, and retention within operations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in logistics and operations management, with at least 7 years in a senior executive leadership role.
• Demonstrated success in transforming and optimizing large‑scale logistics and distribution networks.
• In‑depth knowledge of modern logistics technologies, warehousing automation, and transportation management systems.
• Proven experience in managing significant operational budgets and driving substantial cost savings.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Outstanding leadership, team‑building, and change management skills.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills with external partners and internal stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels.
• Experience in developing and implementing robust risk management and business continuity plans.
• Familiarity with South African logistics regulations and market dynamics.
• Ability to travel as required and work effectively in a hybrid model.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and implement lean operational methodologies.
• Commitment to high standards of safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Demonstrated success in leading large, complex operational teams.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive‑level compensation package, including a highly attractive base salary, significant performance‑based bonuses, and equity participation opportunities. Comprehensive benefits include top‑tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement fund with substantial employer matching, and an extensive leave policy. We provide executive coaching and continuous professional development opportunities, along with a company car and associated allowances. This role offers the chance to lead and redefine operations for a major player in the logistics industry, with the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement.