Lead Supply Chain Analyst

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development opportunities

Subsidized meals

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead Supply Chain Analyst to drive data-driven decisions across the logistics network. You will design advanced forecasting models, analyze large datasets, and build key performance indicators and dashboards for senior leadership.

The role requires a Master’s in a quantitative field and 7+ years of experience in supply chain analytics, with expertise in SQL, Python/R and visualization tools. Relocation to Cape Town is expected where needed.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a quantitative field related to supply chain.
• 7+ years in supply chain analysis, data science, or similar.
• Strong skills in statistical modeling, forecasting, and optimization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of advanced supply chain models and analytical tools.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends and optimization opportunities.
• Develop KPIs and dashboards for supply chain performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand challenges and provide data-driven solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis for disruptions and performance issues.
• Forecast demand and inventory needs with high accuracy.
• Evaluate supplier and logistics partner performance using defined metrics.
• Stay updated with latest analytics technologies and methodologies.
• Present findings to executive leadership.
• Mentor junior analysts within the team.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Problem-solving

Strategic thinking

Education

Master's degree in Operations Research / Statistics / SCM / Economics

Tools

SQL

Python or R

Tableau

Power BI

ERP systems (SAP / Oracle)

WMS/TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a multinational logistics provider, is seeking an accomplished Lead Supply Chain Analyst to spearhead their analytical initiatives in Cape Town . This senior position requires a strategic thinker with exceptional analytical capabilities to optimize supply chain operations, enhance efficiency, and drive cost reductions. The Lead Supply Chain Analyst will be responsible for developing advanced forecasting models, performing complex data analysis, and providing actionable insights to senior management. This role is critical for ensuring our client maintains its competitive edge in the global logistics market by leveraging data-driven decision-making. The position is based in our client's flagship Cape Town office, offering a challenging yet rewarding career path.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of sophisticated supply chain models and analytical tools.
• Analyze large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for supply chain optimization.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting dashboards for supply chain operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (logistics, operations, procurement) to understand challenges and provide data-driven solutions.
• Conduct root cause analysis for supply chain disruptions and performance issues.
• Forecast demand and inventory needs with high accuracy to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Evaluate the performance of suppliers and logistics partners based on defined metrics.
• Stay updated with the latest technologies and methodologies in supply chain analytics.
• Present findings and recommendations clearly and concisely to executive leadership.
• Mentor and guide junior analysts within the team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Operations Research, Statistics, Supply Chain Management, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in supply chain analysis, data science, or a related analytical role.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistical modeling, forecasting techniques, and optimization algorithms.
• Advanced proficiency in SQL, Python or R, and data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).
• Strong understanding of supply chain and logistics operations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to translate complex data into business insights.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and WMS/TMS is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town , South Africa.

Benefits

• This role offers a highly competitive salary and bonus structure, commensurate with experience.
• Our client provides comprehensive medical and dental insurance, a generous retirement plan, and life insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development, including access to industry conferences and specialized training, are a key part of the employee package.
• Employees also benefit from a supportive work environment in Cape Town , access to subsidized meals, and excellent transport links to the office.
• Paid time off includes generous annual leave, sick leave, and family responsibility leave.