Operations Manager (Distribution)

Clicks Group Limited; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the FMCG sector is seeking an Operations Manager (Distribution) to oversee efficient pharmaceutical stock distribution. This role involves managing warehouse operations, ensuring compliance, and optimizing customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in supply chain management and at least 5 years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in warehouse, operations, sales, or retail environments.
• Knowledge of operational safety and health requirements.
• Understanding of transportation issues and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee warehouse operations and manage daily distribution activities.
• Manage costs, including budgeting and capital expenditure.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and operational procedures.

Skills

Communication

Relationship-building

IT proficiency

Education

Business Degree or diploma

Tools

WMS

MS Office

Job description

Job category : Other : FMCG, Retail, Wholesale and Supply Chain

Location : Roodepoort

Contract : Permanent

EE position : Yes

Introduction

We are seeking to recruit a permanent Operations Manager (Distribution) for United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD).

The role will be based at the Rand Leases branch and will report to the General Manager (Inland).

Job Purpose

Responsible for the effective and efficient distribution management of pharmaceutical stock, maximizing returns on customer deliveries, and achieving key distribution objectives aligned with overall business goals.

Key Performance Areas

1. Oversee warehouse operations, managing daily distribution activities, customer relations, personnel, and processes.
2. Manage costs, including budgeting and capital expenditure (CAPEX).
3. Handle distribution customer interface to ensure satisfaction and business growth.
4. Ensure security, loss control, and pharmaceutical compliance per regulations.
5. Lead and manage activities of supervisors in Receiving, Put-Away, Picking, Packing, Shipping, and Inventory Control; oversee all daily activities.
6. Set leadership standards and lead by example, fostering organizational culture.
7. Participate in hiring processes and recommend candidates.
8. Train, develop, and coach staff; promote employee growth, creative thinking, empowerment, and open communication.
9. Recommend workflow adjustments and overtime needs.
10. Ensure policies and procedures are followed accurately and efficiently.
11. Oversee administrative staff to ensure order release aligns with schedules.
12. Review internal reports to measure operational effectiveness and ensure timely order shipment.
13. Resolve issues affecting inbound and outbound order handling.
14. Maintain compliance with regulatory and operational procedures.
15. Conduct staff meetings to review performance and provide operational training.
16. Ensure all departmental training needs are met.
17. Assist in preparing and maintaining SOPs for the Distribution Centre.
18. Coordinate with Facilities Department for preventative maintenance of equipment and assets.
19. Prepare reports such as Operational Updates, Gap Analysis, and share insights regularly.
20. Optimize stock levels, availability, and management.
21. Manage company transport operations at a national level, including internal and courier services and owner-driver schemes.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Relationship-building and interpersonal skills.
• IT proficiency, including WMS and MS Office.

Knowledge

• Business acumen.
• Comprehensive understanding of supply chain management including transport, warehousing, SHEQ, risk management, third-party service management, and owner-driver schemes.

Qualifications

• Business Degree or diploma.
• Knowledge of operational safety and health requirements.
• Understanding of transportation issues and regulatory compliance.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years' experience in warehouse, operations, sales, or retail environments.
• Experience managing warehouse budgets and systems.