Logistics Network Strategist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Time off

Retirement plan

Professional development

Remote work flexibility

Career impact

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Logistics Network Strategist for designing and optimizing our client's distribution network across South Africa and beyond. You will leverage advanced modeling tools (AnyLogic, Llamasoft, Gurobi) and data analytics to forecast demand, improve routes, and reduce costs while communicating insights to senior stakeholders in a remote-first setup.

This role requires 8+ years in logistics network design, a master’s degree in a quantitative field, and a track record of

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant field and 8+ years of experience
• Proven ability to model and optimize networks with tools like AnyLogic or Gurobi
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management

Responsibilities

• Design and implement optimal logistics and distribution network strategies.
• Analyze current network performance to identify bottlenecks.
• Use modeling tools to forecast demand and optimize routes.
• Build business cases for network changes including facilities and inventory.
• Collaborate with operations, sales, finance and partners for execution.
• Stay updated on industry trends and regulatory changes.
• Prepare reports and recommendations for senior management.
• Define KPIs to monitor network effectiveness.
• Lead strategic network design projects from start to finish.
• Use data analytics to identify risks and contingency plans.

Skills

Data modeling

Analytical skills

Communication

Remote work

Presentation skills

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain

Tools

AnyLogic

Llamasoft

Gurobi

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly analytical and forward-thinking Logistics Network Strategist to join their dynamic team in Cape Town, Western Cape . This role is crucial for optimizing our client's supply chain and distribution networks across South Africa and beyond. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of logistics principles, advanced data modeling skills, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable strategic recommendations. This position is designed for a remote-first individual, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing to critical business decisions impacting our client's operations in Cape Town and other key locations. You will be at the forefront of designing and implementing efficient, cost-effective, and resilient logistics solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement optimal logistics and distribution network strategies for our client.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of current network performance, identifying bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement.
• Utilize advanced modeling and simulation tools to forecast demand, optimize transportation routes, and reduce operational costs.
• Develop business cases for network changes, including facility location, transportation modes, and inventory positioning.
• Collaborate with internal teams (operations, sales, finance) and external partners to ensure seamless integration and execution of network strategies.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes affecting logistics networks.
• Prepare and present comprehensive reports and recommendations to senior management regarding network optimization initiatives.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor network effectiveness and drive continuous improvement in Cape Town and other operational hubs.
• Manage strategic projects related to network design and expansion, ensuring timely and within-budget completion.
• Leverage data analytics to identify potential risks and develop contingency plans for supply chain disruptions.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in logistics network design, strategic planning, or supply chain optimization.
• Proven expertise in network modeling software (e.g., AnyLogic, Llamasoft, Gurobi) and advanced analytical tools.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets and translate them into strategic insights.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience in managing strategic projects from conception to completion.
• Knowledge of global and South African logistics regulations and practices.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting, demonstrating strong self-discipline and time management skills.
• Experience with data visualization tools is a plus.
• Familiarity with transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS).

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and annual leave.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Professional development opportunities and conference attendance.
• Remote work flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere.
• Opportunity to shape the future of a major logistics network.