Logistics and Distribution Manager - FMCG

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical and retirement benefits

Generous PTO

Professional development

Fully remote work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Logistics and Distribution Manager to lead our remote logistics operations across South Africa. You will direct warehousing, transport, and inventory control, while driving cost efficiency and service level improvements for FMCG distribution.

The role requires strong leadership, remote team management, and expertise in WMS/TMS/ERP systems to optimize a nationwide network.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in logistics and distribution management, with FMCG experience.
• Proven experience in warehousing, transportation, and inventory control.
• Strong understanding of lean principles and continuous improvement.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills, especially in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in logistics software (e.g., WMS, TMS, ERP systems).
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience managing budgets and analyzing logistics KPIs.
• Remote leadership capabilities and effective collaboration at a distance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement logistics and distribution strategies to support business objectives.
• Manage inbound/outbound transportation, warehousing, and inventory control.
• Optimize routes and network efficiency to reduce costs and improve delivery times.
• Oversee relationships with 3PL providers and supply chain partners.
• Lead remote logistics team and foster performance culture.
• Utilize logistics software to track shipments and analyze performance.
• Develop and manage logistics budget to meet targets.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with transportation regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Communication

Vendor management

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain/Logistics/Business

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and growing force in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking an experienced Logistics and Distribution Manager. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to manage operations from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for overseeing the efficient and cost-effective management of the company's logistics and distribution network, ensuring timely delivery of products to customers and retailers. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in logistics management, supply chain optimization, and a deep understanding of the FMCG distribution landscape. You will play a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring customer satisfaction through streamlined distribution processes. We are looking for a proactive, results-driven leader who can leverage technology and best practices to manage a complex distribution network and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. This remote role requires strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and the ability to manage remote teams and operations effectively. Your strategic input will be crucial for optimizing our client's supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive logistics and distribution strategies to support business objectives.
• Manage all aspects of inbound and outbound transportation, warehousing, and inventory management.
• Optimize distribution routes and network efficiency to reduce costs and improve delivery times.
• Oversee relationships with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and other supply chain partners.
• Implement and manage warehouse operations, ensuring safety, security, and efficiency.
• Utilize logistics management software and technology to track shipments, manage inventory, and analyze performance.
• Develop and manage the logistics and distribution budget, ensuring cost targets are met.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to address deviations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant transportation regulations and safety standards.
• Lead and develop a remote logistics and distribution team, fostering a culture of performance and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in logistics and distribution management, with a significant portion in the FMCG industry .
• Proven experience in managing warehousing, transportation, and inventory control.
• Strong understanding of supply chain best practices, including lean principles and continuous improvement.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills, especially in a remote setting.
• Proficiency in logistics software (e.g., WMS, TMS, ERP systems).
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience managing budgets and analyzing logistics KPIs.
• This is a fully remote position requiring strong self-management, excellent communication, and the ability to effectively lead and collaborate from a distance.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holiday allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications in logistics and supply chain.
• The flexibility of a fully remote work arrangement, promoting excellent work-life balance.
• A chance to optimize the distribution network for a leading FMCG company.
• Access to modern logistics technology and tools.