Operations Manager - FMCG Logistics

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Operations Manager to lead remote logistics and distribution for a major FMCG client. You will optimize the entire supply chain, drive cost reductions, and ensure service excellence from a home office setup.

The role requires 8+ years in operations, strong WMS/TMS/ERP proficiency, and a proven track record of remote team leadership and strategic planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM, Logistics, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management.
• Strong FMCG logistics and distribution background.
• Proficient with WMS, TMS and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all FMCG supply chain and logistics operations, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Develop strategies to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Manage and coordinate 3PLs and internal teams.
• Implement and monitor KPIs to track performance and identify improvements.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and resources.
• Utilize data analytics to forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimize routes.
• Lead and mentor a remote operations team.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Strategic planning

Communication

Vendor management

Remote leadership

Autonomy

Education

Bachelor's degree in SCM / Logistics / Business Admin

MBA

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to spearhead their remote logistics and distribution operations. This critical, fully remote position requires a strategic and hands-on leader to optimize the entire supply chain network, ensuring the timely and cost-effective delivery of products to various distribution points. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of FMCG logistics, inventory management, and fleet coordination, with a proven ability to drive operational efficiency and implement best practices across a distributed network. You will be responsible for enhancing performance, reducing costs, and ensuring the highest standards of service delivery, all while working remotely. This is a unique chance to lead operational excellence for a major FMCG player from your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the FMCG supply chain and logistics operations, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory management.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Manage and coordinate the activities of third-party logistics providers (3PLs) and internal teams.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Utilize technology and data analytics to forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimize routes.
• Lead and mentor a remote operations team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., procurement, sales, customer service) to ensure seamless end-to-end supply chain management.
• Drive innovation in logistics processes and implement new technologies to enhance operational effectiveness.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• An MBA or relevant Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a strong focus on FMCG logistics and distribution.
• Demonstrated success in optimizing complex supply chain operations and achieving significant cost savings.
• In-depth knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and ERP systems.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate remote teams effectively.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic planning capabilities.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities in a fully remote setting.
• Must be based in South Africa and possess a reliable internet connection and home office setup.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering significant flexibility.
• Opportunity to lead critical operations for a major FMCG company.
• Access to professional development and training opportunities.
• Contribution to medical aid and provident fund.
• A dynamic and results-driven remote work environment.