Logistics & Distribution Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health insurance

Leadership development opportunities

Generous paid time off

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is sourcing a strategic and experienced Logistics & Distribution Manager to lead operations in East London, Eastern Cape. This senior role oversees inbound/outbound logistics, warehousing, and distribution, driving efficiency, cost reduction, and service improvements across the network.

The ideal candidate has a Master’s in SCM or related field, plus 7–10 years of progressive logistics leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field.
• Bachelor's degree with extensive experience in logistics.
• 7–10 years of progressive logistics and distribution management experience.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee logistics and distribution, warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Develop and implement plans to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery.
• Lead and mentor a team of logistics professionals.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for logistics operations.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales, and manufacturing to align strategies.
• Leverage WMS/TMS to optimize operations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Logistics management

Data analytics

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor's degree + extensive experience

Tools

WMS

TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a strategic and experienced Logistics & Distribution Manager to lead their operations in **East London, Eastern Cape**. This senior role is responsible for the overall management and optimization of all inbound and outbound logistics, warehousing, and distribution activities. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of supply chain management, robust leadership skills, and a proven track record of driving efficiency, reducing costs, and improving service levels. This hybrid position requires a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on management, ensuring seamless operations across our network. You will be instrumental in shaping our logistics strategy and ensuring operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of logistics and distribution, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery.
• Manage and mentor a team of logistics professionals, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for logistics operations, ensuring targets are met or exceeded.
• Optimize warehouse layouts, processes, and resource allocation for maximum efficiency.
• Manage carrier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure compliance with SLAs and regulatory requirements.
• Implement and leverage technology, such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), to enhance operations.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and company policies within distribution centers.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., procurement, sales, manufacturing) to align logistics strategies with business objectives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Bachelor's degree with extensive experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in logistics and distribution management.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale warehousing and transportation operations.
• Strong leadership, team management, and strategic planning skills.
• In-depth knowledge of WMS, TMS, and other supply chain technologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, hybrid work environment, balancing strategic planning with operational oversight.
• Experience in **East London, Eastern Cape** logistics landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package and a comprehensive benefits program, including executive health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
• Our client invests in leadership development, offering extensive training and growth opportunities.
• Generous paid time off, retirement savings plans, and performance-based bonuses are included.