Operations Manager - FMCG Distribution

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Career development opportunities

Bloemfontein-based role

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee the distribution center, driving warehouse efficiency, inventory accuracy and on-time fulfillment for FMCG clients.

You will lead a hands-on team, implement WMS systems, manage costs and uphold safety standards in a fast-paced environment. This role is based in Bloemfontein and offers development opportunities within a growing organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management or related field.
• 5+ years in warehouse or operations management, preferably FMCG distribution.
• Experience managing large-scale warehouse operations and distribution networks.
• Strong understanding of WMS, inventory control and logistics best practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to drive operational efficiency and cost savings.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations in a warehouse environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office and WMS software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the distribution center, including receiving, warehousing, order picking, packing and dispatch.
• Manage and develop the warehouse operations team to high performance and productivity.
• Implement and maintain efficient warehouse management systems (WMS) to optimize inventory accuracy, storage and retrieval.
• Develop and enforce strict safety protocols and procedures for a safe working environment.
• Monitor and control operational costs, identifying opportunities for efficiency gains and cost reductions.
• Ensure timely and accurate fulfillment of customer orders, meeting SLAs.
• Manage inventory levels, conduct stock takes and minimize discrepancies and losses.
• Collaborate with the transport team to ensure efficient outbound logistics and delivery schedules.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance processes and overall efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Warehouse management

WMS proficiency

Inventory control

Cost optimization

Safety compliance

MS Office

Staff development

Operational efficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics/Supply Chain/Operations

Tools

WMS software

MS Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) distribution sector, is seeking a dedicated and efficient Operations Manager to oversee their distribution center in Bloemfontein, Free State . This crucial role involves managing all aspects of warehouse operations, ensuring the timely and accurate distribution of products to retailers across the region. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in logistics and warehouse management, with a focus on operational efficiency, cost control, and adherence to safety standards within the FMCG industry. You will be responsible for leading a team of warehouse staff, optimizing processes, and maintaining high levels of service to our clients. This position requires a hands-on approach and a commitment to operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the distribution center, including receiving, warehousing, order picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Manage and develop the warehouse operations team, including supervisors and staff, ensuring high performance and productivity.
• Implement and maintain efficient warehouse management systems (WMS) to optimize inventory accuracy, storage, and retrieval.
• Develop and enforce strict safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
• Monitor and control operational costs, identifying opportunities for efficiency gains and cost reductions.
• Ensure the timely and accurate fulfillment of customer orders, meeting service level agreements (SLAs).
• Manage inventory levels, conduct regular stock takes, and minimize discrepancies and losses.
• Collaborate with the transport team to ensure efficient outbound logistics and delivery schedules.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational processes and overall efficiency.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in warehouse or operations management, preferably within the FMCG distribution sector.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale warehouse operations and distribution networks.
• Strong understanding of WMS, inventory control, and logistics best practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to implement and drive operational efficiency and cost savings.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations in a warehouse environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and experience with relevant WMS software.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, hands-on operational setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, along with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing organization are available.
• This role is based in Bloemfontein, Free State , offering a challenging and rewarding operational environment.
• You will play a key role in ensuring the smooth functioning of critical distribution operations for a leading FMCG company.