Operations Executive - FMCG Distribution

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Company vehicle

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mbombela (Nelspruit) seeks an experienced Operations Executive to lead our FMCG distribution network. You will optimize warehouse, inventory, and transport, drive cost efficiency, and build high-performing teams across logistics functions.

You will collaborate with sales, procurement, and finance to align supply chain with business goals, implement best practices, and adopt new technologies to enhance service levels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field; advanced degree/desirable.
• 8+ years in operations management focused on FMCG distribution and logistics.
• Proven ability to lead complex supply chains and improve operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies for efficient FMCG distribution.
• Oversee warehouse, inventory, and transportation logistics.
• Lead and develop the operations team for high performance.
• Negotiate with suppliers, 3PLs, and partners.
• Implement robust inventory management to minimize stockouts.
• Drive continuous improvements to cut costs and raise service levels.
• Ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Analyze KPIs and collaborate with sales, procurement, and finance.
• Lead adoption of new technologies and modernize operations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics

Tools

ERP systems

WMS

TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) distribution sector, is seeking a seasoned and strategic Operations Executive to lead their distribution operations. This key position, based in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga , is responsible for overseeing the entire logistics and supply chain network, ensuring the efficient and cost-effective delivery of products to a wide range of customers. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in managing large-scale distribution operations, optimizing inventory, and driving operational excellence within the FMCG industry. You will be instrumental in streamlining processes, managing key stakeholder relationships, and implementing best practices to enhance overall supply chain performance. This role offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to shape the operational strategy of a growing company.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of FMCG distribution.
• Oversee all aspects of warehouse management, inventory control, and transportation logistics.
• Manage and develop a team of operational staff, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, third-party logistics providers, and other operational partners.
• Implement and maintain robust inventory management systems and processes to minimize stockouts and waste.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, quality standards, and industry best practices.
• Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify trends, bottlenecks, and areas for enhancement.
• Collaborate with sales, procurement, and finance departments to ensure seamless operational integration.
• Lead the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to modernize operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. An advanced degree or relevant certifications are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a strong focus on FMCG distribution and logistics.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex supply chain operations and driving significant improvements.
• Expertise in warehouse management, inventory control, fleet management, and order fulfillment.
• Strong understanding of financial metrics and cost management within operations.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and strategic planning skills.
• Proficiency in using ERP, WMS, and TMS systems.
• Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Nelspruit, Mpumalanga .

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive bonus package.
• Performance-driven incentives and long-term incentive plans.
• Generous medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Company vehicle or car allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career growth and leadership development.
• Exposure to cutting-edge supply chain technologies and methodologies.
• A dynamic and impactful role within a leading FMCG distribution company.