Head of Supply Chain and Logistics

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary and bonuses

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Generous annual leave

Relocation assistance

International professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Head of Supply Chain and Logistics to oversee end-to-end operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role requires guiding procurement, inventory, warehousing, and transportation to achieve cost efficiency and high service levels.

The ideal candidate will lead a cross-functional team, optimize processes, and manage international and domestic supply chains, including import/export operations, with a strong focus on risk mitigation and strategic growth.

Qualifications

• Master's degree is required and relevant PM knowledge is essential.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive supply chain experience with leadership exposure.
• Proven track record in managing international and domestic supply chains; imports/exports experience.
• Strong warehousing, inventory, and transportation logistics expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and drive cost efficiencies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee procurement, inventory control, warehousing, and transport operations.
• Lead and mentor a team of supply chain professionals; foster high-performance culture.
• Analyze performance metrics and drive initiatives to improve efficiency and service levels.
• Negotiate favorable terms with suppliers and logistics providers.
• Ensure compliance with customs, trade, and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Analytics

Cost reduction

Team management

Supply chain optimization

Communication

Problem-solving

Forecasting

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a strategic and results-oriented Head of Supply Chain and Logistics to oversee their entire operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior management position is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing all aspects of the supply chain, from procurement and inventory management to warehousing and final delivery. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in optimizing supply chain efficiency, reducing costs, ensuring product availability, and maintaining the highest service levels for a diverse customer base. This role requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in managing complex supply chains, adept at navigating the unique logistical challenges of the Durban port and surrounding regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with the company's business objectives.
• Manage and optimize all aspects of procurement, inventory control, warehousing, and transportation.
• Lead and mentor a team of supply chain professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Analyze supply chain performance metrics and implement initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
• Negotiate with suppliers and logistics providers to secure favorable terms and contracts.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, including customs, trade, and safety standards.
• Implement and manage advanced supply chain technologies and systems (e.g., WMS, TMS).
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply chain risks and disruptions.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and production teams to ensure alignment and forecast accuracy.
• Manage the supply chain budget and provide financial oversight for all related activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with a significant portion in a leadership role within the FMCG or retail sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing international and domestic supply chains, including import/export operations.
• Proven track record of successfully optimizing supply chain processes, reducing costs, and improving efficiency.
• Strong understanding of warehousing, inventory management, and transportation logistics.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain software and ERP systems.
• Strategic thinking, analytical prowess, and strong problem-solving abilities.
• Experience in the KwaZulu-Natal region, particularly with Durban port operations, is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits

• Attractive executive-level salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave and other paid time off.
• Opportunities for international professional development and networking.
• Relocation assistance if applicable.
• A challenging and rewarding role with significant impact on business success.
• Access to modern logistics infrastructure and technologies.