Lead Industrial Engineer - Supply Chain

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, seeks a Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead supply chain optimization across warehousing and transport. The role combines strategic planning with practical implementation to deliver efficiency, cost reductions, and improved service levels.

The successful candidate will have 10+ years in industrial engineering with a supply chain focus, strong leadership, and expertise in modeling, WMS/TMS, and advanced analytics.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 10+ years progressive experience in industrial engineering with a focus on supply chain and logistics.
• Proven track record leading large-scale supply chain optimization projects.
• Expertise in supply chain modeling, simulation, and network design software.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills; excellent communication and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of optimized supply chain processes and systems.
• Analyze complex supply chain data to identify opportunities for efficiency gains, cost reduction, and service level improvements.
• Develop and manage the execution of strategic projects related to network design, inventory management, and logistics operations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure alignment and integration of supply chain strategies.
• Implement and utilize advanced analytical tools and technologies to enhance supply chain visibility and performance.
• Develop and mentor a team of industrial engineers focused on supply chain operations.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for supply chain effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and best practices in supply chain management.

Skills

Supply chain

Leadership

Data analysis

Project management

Stakeholder mgmt

Communication

Team leadership

Education

Master's in Industrial Engineering

Tools

WMS

TMS

Modeling software

Simulation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the logistics and supply chain sector based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking a highly experienced Lead Industrial Engineer to spearhead their supply chain optimization initiatives. This senior role involves developing and implementing strategic improvements across the entire supply chain network, from warehousing to transportation. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in supply chain engineering, process redesign, and advanced analytics. This is a critical position requiring strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a proven ability to drive significant operational enhancements. The successful applicant will have a direct impact on efficiency, cost reduction, and service delivery within a complex and vital industry. We are looking for a visionary leader capable of transforming supply chain operations through innovative engineering solutions. The role demands a blend of strategic planning and practical implementation, ensuring our client remains competitive.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of optimized supply chain processes and systems.
• Analyze complex supply chain data to identify opportunities for efficiency gains, cost reduction, and service level improvements.
• Develop and manage the execution of strategic projects related to network design, inventory management, and logistics operations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure alignment and integration of supply chain strategies.
• Implement and utilize advanced analytical tools and technologies to enhance supply chain visibility and performance.
• Develop and mentor a team of industrial engineers focused on supply chain operations.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and best practices in supply chain management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in industrial engineering with a specialization in supply chain and logistics.
• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale supply chain optimization projects.
• Expertise in supply chain modeling, simulation, and network design software.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience managing and developing engineering teams.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, alongside comprehensive benefits including medical aid, a pension fund, and performance-based incentives. Professional development and training opportunities are provided to support career growth. This role is based in the strategic port city of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a chance to shape the future of a critical industry.