Operations Manager - FMCG Distribution

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Leadership development

Relocation assistance

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the distribution center in Paarl, Western Cape. You will oversee all warehousing and logistics operations, drive efficiency, and maintain safety and quality standards.

You will manage a diverse team, optimize processes, and collaborate with procurement, sales and transport to ensure seamless end-to-end supply chain flow in a demanding SA FMCG environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years of operations management experience in FMCG or warehousing.
• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Experience optimizing warehouse processes and cost control.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee warehouse operations: receiving, storage, order fulfilment, dispatch.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency and service levels.
• Lead and develop warehouse staff with a safety-first culture.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Manage inventory accuracy and stock control using WMS.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales and transport teams.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

WMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the FMCG sector, is looking for a seasoned and results-driven Operations Manager to lead their distribution center in Paarl, Western Cape. This critical role will ensure the efficient and effective management of all warehousing and logistics operations, supporting the timely delivery of products to customers. You will be responsible for optimizing operational processes, managing a diverse team, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics within the demanding South African FMCG distribution network.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, order fulfillment, and dispatch.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
• Lead, motivate, and develop a team of warehouse staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the distribution center.
• Manage inventory accuracy and control, implementing best practices for stock management.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales, and transportation teams to ensure seamless end-to-end supply chain flow.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in operations management, preferably within FMCG distribution or warehousing.
• Proven experience in managing large teams and optimizing warehouse processes.
• Strong understanding of inventory management systems, WMS, and logistics best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in a warehouse environment.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for significant leadership development and career progression.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• A challenging and rewarding role within a reputable FMCG company.