Operations Lead, Cold Chain Logistics

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid plan

Retirement fund contributions

Training in cold chain logistics

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Lead to manage a state-of-the-art cold chain facility in Cape Town. You will oversee receiving, storage, order picking, packing and dispatch while ensuring strict temperature control and compliance with HACCP and SANS.

Lead a diverse team of warehouse operatives and drivers, optimize SOPs, maintain equipment, and partner with transport teams to guarantee timely, safe deliveries. A strong regulatory and safety mindset is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management or related field.
• 6+ years of logistics operations experience, with at least 4 years in cold chain or temperature-controlled environments.
• Proven experience in managing warehouse facilities and refrigerated storage systems.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and industry standards.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a large operational team.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage day-to-day operations of the cold chain facility in Cape Town, including receiving, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Ensure strict adherence to temperature control protocols, food safety standards and regulatory requirements (HACCP, SANS).
• Develop and implement SOPs to optimize performance and minimize product loss.
• Supervise, train, and mentor warehouse operatives, forklift drivers, and administrative staff.
• Manage inventory levels, conduct stock takes, and implement inventory control for perishables.
• Oversee maintenance and calibration of cold storage equipment and machinery.
• Coordinate with transportation partners to ensure timely delivery with temperature integrity.
• Enforce health and safety policies and promote a safe working environment.
• Analyze data to identify inefficiencies and report KPIs to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Process optimization

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s in Logistics/Supply Chain

Tools

WMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in specialized logistics solutions, is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Operations Lead to manage its state-of-the-art cold chain facility in Cape Town, Western Cape . This critical role will be responsible for ensuring the integrity, safety, and timely delivery of temperature-sensitive goods throughout the supply chain. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex refrigerated warehousing and transportation operations, with a strong emphasis on quality control and regulatory compliance. This is a demanding, hands-on role requiring exceptional leadership and operational acumen within the vibrant logistics hub of Cape Town, Western Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all day-to-day operations of the cold chain logistics facility in Cape Town, Western Cape , including receiving, storage, order picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Ensure strict adherence to all temperature control protocols, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., HACCP, SANS).
• Develop and implement efficient workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to optimize operational performance and minimize product loss.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a diverse team of warehouse operatives, forklift drivers, and administrative staff.
• Manage inventory levels accurately, conduct regular stock takes, and implement robust inventory control measures for perishable goods.
• Oversee the maintenance and calibration of all cold storage equipment and machinery, ensuring operational readiness.
• Coordinate with transportation partners to ensure the seamless and timely delivery of goods, maintaining temperature integrity during transit.
• Implement and enforce stringent health and safety policies within the facility, promoting a safe working environment.
• Analyze operational data to identify inefficiencies, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in logistics operations, with at least 4 years specifically in cold chain or temperature-controlled environments.
• Demonstrated experience in managing warehouse facilities and a strong understanding of refrigerated storage systems.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, HACCP principles, and other relevant industry standards.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a large operational team.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in using Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and other relevant logistics software.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal teams, external partners, and regulatory bodies.
• Resilience and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding operational environment.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary reflecting your expertise and responsibilities.
• Comprehensive medical aid plan and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for specialized training in cold chain logistics and supply chain management.
• Access to cutting-edge logistics technology and infrastructure.
• A stable and secure position within a well-established industry leader.
• Potential for career growth into regional management roles.