Port Logistics Supervisor

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

International certifications

Annual leave & wellness

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Port Logistics Supervisor to oversee operations at Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will manage cargo flow, coordinate with shipping lines, customs, and internal teams to ensure timely port operations.

The role requires leadership experience and deep knowledge of port procedures, safety, and environmental standards. Based in Richards Bay with a dynamic, high-pressure port environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of port operations or maritime logistics experience.
• Proven supervisory or leadership experience.
• In-depth knowledge of port operations, shipping procedures, and customs regulations.
• Familiarity with cargo types and handling equipment.
• Strong safety and environmental management systems knowledge.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in Richards Bay port environment.

Responsibilities

• Supervise activities related to receiving, storage, and dispatch of cargo at the port.
• Coordinate with shipping agents, customs, stevedores, and transport operators.
• Monitor vessel schedules and cargo status, address delays or issues.
• Ensure compliance with port regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Manage inventory within port terminals and bonded warehouses.
• Oversee documentation for imports/exports for accuracy and completeness.
• Coordinate with trucking and rail for hinterland transport efficiency.
• Implement procedures to optimize efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Train and mentor port operations staff, fostering high performance.
• Manage relationships with service providers and suppliers.

Skills

Leadership

Communication skills

Negotiation

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics/SCM/Maritime Studies

Tools

Port management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major force in the maritime logistics sector, is seeking an experienced Port Logistics Supervisor to oversee operations at the busy port of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role involves managing the efficient flow of goods, coordinating with shipping lines, customs, and internal logistics teams to ensure timely and cost-effective port operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in port logistics, exceptional coordination skills, and a deep understanding of international shipping and customs procedures. This is a vital position within a key South African port, offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on global trade efficiency. You will be at the forefront of managing complex logistical challenges in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate all activities related to the receiving, storage, and dispatch of cargo at the port.
• Liaise with shipping agents, customs officials, stevedores, and transport operators to ensure smooth cargo movement.
• Monitor vessel schedules and cargo status, proactively addressing any potential delays or issues.
• Ensure compliance with all port regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Manage inventory of goods within the port terminals and bonded warehouses.
• Oversee the documentation process for imports and exports, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Coordinate with the trucking and rail departments for efficient hinterland transport.
• Implement and maintain operational procedures to optimize efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Train and mentor port operations staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Manage relationships with service providers and suppliers to the port operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in port operations or maritime logistics.
• Proven experience in a supervisory or leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of port operations, shipping procedures, and customs regulations.
• Familiarity with different types of cargo and handling equipment.
• Strong understanding of safety and environmental management systems in a port environment.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a demanding port environment in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .
• Proficiency in relevant port management software and MS Office.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and international certifications are provided.
• The role is based in the strategic location of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , offering a challenging and rewarding career.
• Employees benefit from a strong safety culture and a collaborative work environment.
• Generous annual leave and wellness programs are also part of the package.