Operations Manager - FMCG Distribution Centre

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the distribution centre. This hands-on role focuses on efficient, safe, and cost-effective warehouse operations, inventory control, and staff leadership in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

The ideal candidate will drive process improvements, ensure KPI achievement, and uphold strict safety standards to maintain supply chain integrity in the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain or related field.
• 5+ years in warehouse/operations management, preferably FMCG.
• Experience with WMS and ERP systems.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the distribution centre including receiving, put-away, picking, packing and shipping.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Lead warehouse staff, supervisors and drivers, fostering performance and safety.
• Ensure accurate inventory management and robust stock control.
• Maintain health and safety compliance and manage budget and expenses.
• Utilise WMS and other operational technologies; collaborate with logistics teams.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide training and development.

Skills

Logistics

Operations Mgmt

Team Leadership

Inventory Control

WMS

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

WMS

ERP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Operations Manager to lead their key distribution centre in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This hands-on role is critical for ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective operation of the warehouse and logistics functions. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in warehouse management, inventory control, and team leadership within a fast-paced operational environment. You will be responsible for optimising operational processes, managing staff, ensuring high levels of accuracy and productivity, and upholding stringent safety standards. This is a vital role for maintaining the integrity of our client's supply chain in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the distribution centre, including receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and shipping.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service levels.
• Manage and lead a team of warehouse staff, supervisors, and drivers, fostering a culture of performance and safety.
• Ensure accurate inventory management and implement robust stock control procedures.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety compliance within the facility.
• Manage the operational budget and control expenses effectively.
• Implement and utilise warehouse management systems (WMS) and other operational technologies.
• Collaborate with the logistics and transport teams to ensure timely and efficient delivery of goods.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide training and development opportunities for staff.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in warehouse or operations management, preferably within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of managing large distribution centres and achieving operational KPIs.
• Strong understanding of warehouse operations, inventory management, and logistics.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP systems.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations in an operational environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Nelspruit, Mpumalanga .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, medical aid, provident fund, and opportunities for career advancement within a large and stable FMCG organisation. You will have the opportunity to lead critical operations in a dynamic environment, contributing directly to the success of our client's business in Nelspruit .