Project Manager - Supply Chain Optimization

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and incentives

Health and wellness benefits

Professional development and training

Hybrid work arrangements

Long-term opportunities in the region

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a results-driven Project Manager to optimize our client’s supply chain operations from Pietermaritzburg. You will drive end-to-end project lifecycles, coordinating with procurement, warehousing, transportation and customer service to deliver measurable improvements.

The role emphasizes change management, data-driven decision making, and strong stakeholder engagement to reduce costs and improve service delivery in a hybrid work setup.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field required.
• Minimum 5 years of project management experience in supply chain or logistics.
• Lean/Six Sigma experience preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage projects focused on supply chain optimization, including process improvement, technology implementation, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Analyze current supply chain operations to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop detailed project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource requirements.
• Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams (e.g., logistics, procurement, IT) and external partners (e.g., suppliers, carriers).
• Manage project budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness of implemented solutions.
• Monitor project progress, track KPIs, and report on outcomes to senior management.
• Implement new technologies and systems to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry best practices.
• Facilitate training and change management activities to ensure successful adoption of new processes.

Skills

Project management

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

SCM software

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the logistics and supply chain sector, is seeking a results-driven Project Manager to optimize their operational efficiency. This role, based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal , will focus on identifying and implementing improvements across the entire supply chain. The ideal candidate will have a strong analytical mindset, a deep understanding of logistics processes, and a proven ability to manage complex projects that yield measurable results. You will work closely with various departments, including procurement, warehousing, transportation, and customer service, to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery. This position offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company's bottom line and its competitive position in the market. The successful applicant will be responsible for the entire project lifecycle, from initial assessment and planning through to execution and post-implementation review. We are looking for an individual who can drive change, manage cross-functional teams effectively, and maintain a focus on operational excellence within the dynamic environment of Pietermaritzburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage projects focused on supply chain optimization, including process improvement, technology implementation, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Analyze current supply chain operations to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop detailed project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, timelines, and resource requirements.
• Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams (e.g., logistics, procurement, IT) and external partners (e.g., suppliers, carriers).
• Manage project budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness of implemented solutions.
• Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and report on outcomes to senior management.
• Implement new technologies and systems to enhance supply chain visibility and efficiency.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and industry best practices.
• Facilitate training and change management activities to ensure successful adoption of new processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a specific focus on supply chain or logistics operations.
• Proven experience in process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and project management tools.
• Knowledge of inventory management, warehousing, and transportation operations.
• Experience in the KwaZulu-Natal region is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain management.
• Generous annual leave and flexible hybrid work arrangements.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Exposure to strategic initiatives impacting the company's future growth.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Travel opportunities within the region as required by projects.