Operations Manager - Logistics & Distribution

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote role

Cutting-edge logistics technology

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is hiring an experienced Operations Manager for a fully remote role across South Africa. You will lead end-to-end logistics, including warehousing, transportation, and inventory, using WMS and TMS to drive efficiency.

The role requires 8+ years in distribution-focused logistics, strong leadership, and strategic thinking. You will manage a distributed team, implement KPI-driven improvements, and collaborate cross-functionally to meet client service objectives and regulatory

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in SCM, Logistics, Business Admin or related field.
• MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 8 years in logistics/operations with focus on distribution.
• Experience with WMS and TMS systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day logistics and distribution operations worldwide from a remote base.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve service levels, reduce costs, and boost productivity.
• Manage inventory, warehousing, and transportation across multiple sites.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing remote operations team.
• Use KPIs to monitor performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with sales, customer service and finance to align goals.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team management

Analytics

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

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

MBA or advanced degree preferred

Tools

WMS

TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent logistics and distribution company, is seeking a highly experienced Operations Manager to lead their expanding operations. This is a fully remote position, offering a unique opportunity to manage a critical function from anywhere in South Africa. You will be responsible for the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our logistics network, overseeing warehousing, transportation, inventory management, and order fulfillment. The ideal candidate possesses a strategic mindset, extensive experience in optimizing supply chain operations, and a proven ability to drive performance improvements through data analysis and innovative solutions. You will lead a distributed team, fostering a collaborative and results-driven culture. This role requires exceptional leadership, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of modern logistics technologies. As a remote-first role, you will leverage advanced digital tools to manage operations and connect with your team, ensuring seamless service delivery for clients across Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day logistics and distribution operations, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve service levels, reduce costs, and enhance productivity.
• Manage inventory levels, warehousing operations, and transportation logistics across multiple sites.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing remote operations team.
• Implement and utilize performance metrics (KPIs) to monitor operational effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with other departments, including sales, customer service, and finance, to align operational goals with business objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the operations function.
• Manage vendor relationships with third-party logistics providers and suppliers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in logistics and operations management, with a significant focus on distribution.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex supply chains and driving operational improvements.
• Extensive experience with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional leadership and team management capabilities, with experience managing remote teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis and performance reporting.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of a fully remote role, allowing for a superior work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge logistics technology and opportunities to lead transformative projects.
• Comprehensive professional development and continuous learning programs.
• Join a forward-thinking organization that values innovation, efficiency, and employee empowerment.
• This is an excellent opportunity to shape the future of logistics.