Logistics Coordinator - Perishable Goods

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Training and development

Career progression

Team environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a meticulous Logistics Coordinator for its George, Western Cape operations. This role focuses on ensuring fresh, time‑sensitive perishable products move efficiently from origin to destination, with strong emphasis on cold chain integrity and stock rotation.

You will coordinate transportation, monitor inventory levels, and collaborate with suppliers, carriers and customers to optimize delivery times while maintaining regulatory compliance and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Logistics Coordinator or similar role (perishable goods or cold chain preferred).
• Knowledge of transportation modes, shipping docs, and customs procedures.
• Familiarity with inventory management for time-sensitive products.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Proficiency with logistics software and MS Office.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate end-to-end logistics for perishable goods, including shipping, receiving, and inventory management.
• Manage and schedule transportation, ensuring temperature control compliance.
• Liaise with suppliers, carriers, and customers for on-time delivery.
• Track inventory and implement FIFO and stock rotation strategies.
• Monitor shipments in real-time and address delays to protect product quality.
• Maintain records of shipment details, costs, and delivery times.
• Collaborate with sales and procurement to forecast demand and manage stock.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Identify process improvements to reduce costs and boost efficiency.
• Prepare logistics performance reports highlighting metrics.

Skills

Logistics coordination

Cold chain knowledge

Inventory management

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Logistics/Supply Chain qualification

Tools

Logistics software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding company specializing in the import and distribution of high-quality perishable goods, is seeking a meticulous and proactive Logistics Coordinator for their operations in George, Western Cape . This role is pivotal in ensuring the timely and efficient movement of sensitive products, maintaining their integrity from origin to destination. The ideal candidate will possess a keen understanding of cold chain logistics, inventory management for time-sensitive items, and coordinating complex transport schedules. You will play a crucial role in optimizing supply chains, reducing transit times, and ensuring customer satisfaction by guaranteeing product freshness and availability. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about logistics and driven to excel in a demanding, fast-paced sector.

Key Responsibilities

Coordinate the end-to-end logistics process for perishable goods, including shipping, receiving, and inventory management. Manage and schedule transportation for incoming and outgoing shipments, ensuring compliance with temperature control requirements. Liaise with suppliers, carriers, and customers to ensure smooth and efficient delivery of products. Monitor inventory levels of perishable goods, implementing stock rotation strategies (e.g., FIFO) to minimize spoilage. Track shipments in real-time and proactively address any potential delays or issues impacting product quality. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all logistical activities, including shipment details, costs, and delivery times. Collaborate with the sales and procurement teams to forecast demand and manage stock accordingly. Ensure all operations comply with relevant food safety regulations and quality standards. Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs in perishable logistics. Prepare reports on logistics performance, highlighting key metrics and areas for improvement.

Requirements

Proven experience as a Logistics Coordinator or in a similar role, preferably within the perishable goods or cold chain industry. Strong understanding of transportation modes, shipping documentation, and customs procedures. Familiarity with inventory management techniques, especially for time-sensitive products. Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask effectively. Proficiency in using logistics software and Microsoft Office Suite. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with stakeholders. Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Problem-solving skills to address logistical challenges promptly and efficiently. Knowledge of food safety regulations and quality control measures is a significant advantage. A relevant qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary, reflecting your expertise in specialized logistics. Employees are eligible for a performance-based bonus structure, as well as a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund. Our client invests in its employees through ongoing training and development programs, offering clear pathways for career progression within the organization. You will work in a vibrant team environment in George, Western Cape , contributing to the success of a business at the forefront of its industry. We are committed to fostering a work-life balance and providing a supportive atmosphere where employees can thrive and grow professionally.