Logistics Coordinator - Perishables

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a meticulous Logistics Coordinator specializing in perishable goods to join our client’s team. This hybrid role requires coordinating time-sensitive, temperature-controlled shipments from farm to market, ensuring freshness, quality, and on-time delivery.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of four years in logistics, strong cold-chain knowledge, and excellent communication with farmers, transport partners, and distribution centers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture or related field.
• Minimum 4 years in logistics coordination, with perishable goods or cold chain focus.
• Strong understanding of cold chain logistics and temperature-controlled transport.
• Excellent organizational skills with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective communication and negotiation with suppliers and transport partners.
• Proficiency in logistics software and Microsoft Excel; hybrid work capable.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally; knowledge of Western Cape market advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate end-to-end logistics for perishable goods from farm to market.
• Manage relationships with transport providers and ensure temp control.
• Monitor inventory and forecast demand for perishables.
• Liaise with farmers, suppliers, and distribution centers.
• Maintain cold chain integrity throughout transport.
• Handle documentation including customs where necessary.
• Resolve disruptions promptly to minimize product loss.
• Maintain shipment records and operational costs.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and transport standards.
• Collaborate with sales and operations to meet delivery expectations.

Skills

Cold chain logistics knowledge

Strong organizational skills

Effective communication

Negotiation skills

Problem solving under pressure

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, or related field

Tools

Logistics software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading supplier in the agricultural and food distribution sector, is seeking a meticulous and efficient Logistics Coordinator specializing in Perishables for their operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This hybrid role demands a proactive individual who can manage the complex logistics of time-sensitive and temperature-controlled goods. You will be responsible for coordinating the movement of produce from farm to market, ensuring freshness, quality, and timely delivery. The ideal candidate possesses strong organizational skills, a keen understanding of cold chain logistics, and excellent communication abilities. This role is crucial for maintaining our client's reputation for quality and reliability in the fast-paced perishable goods market. The hybrid model allows for flexibility while ensuring essential on-site coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the end-to-end logistics process for perishable goods, including planning, scheduling, and tracking shipments.


• Manage relationships with transport providers, ensuring adherence to strict delivery schedules and temperature control requirements.


• Monitor inventory levels and forecast demand for perishable products to optimize supply chain operations.


• Liaise with farmers, suppliers, and distribution centers to ensure smooth flow of goods.


• Implement and maintain cold chain integrity throughout the transportation process.


• Handle documentation, including customs clearance if necessary, for inbound and outbound perishable shipments.


• Address and resolve any logistical challenges or disruptions promptly to minimize product loss.


• Maintain accurate records of shipments, inventory, and operational costs.


• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and transportation standards for perishable goods.


• Collaborate with sales and operations teams to meet customer delivery expectations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, or a related field.


• Minimum of 4 years of experience in logistics coordination, with a specific focus on perishable goods or cold chain management.


• Proven understanding of cold chain logistics principles and temperature-controlled transport.


• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.


• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build rapport with suppliers and transport partners.


• Proficiency in logistics software and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote tasks with essential on-site coordination.


• Knowledge of the agricultural sector and fresh produce markets in the Western Cape is advantageous.


• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.


• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary with potential for performance bonuses. Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are provided. The hybrid work structure allows for a flexible work-life balance. Employees have access to ongoing professional development and training opportunities within the logistics and agricultural sectors. This role offers the chance to work with a dedicated team in a vital industry, contributing to the efficient delivery of fresh produce across the region.