Regional Transport Manager

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career advancement

Performance reviews & development

Stable work environment

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Regional Transport Manager for its Durban operations. This on-site role oversees the regional transport fleet, leads a driver team, and ensures timely distribution to KwaZulu-Natal stores.

You will drive cost efficiencies, ensure SA road transport compliance, and partner with store managers to align delivery plans with demand. A hands-on leader with strategic vision is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 6 years in transport and logistics management with regional scope.
• Experience managing large fleets and teams.
• Strong knowledge of SA transport laws and compliance.
• Proficient with TMS and logistics tech.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and cost control skills.
• Ability to plan routes and optimize networks.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Durban or surrounding areas.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the regional transport fleet, including scheduling and maintenance.
• Lead drivers, dispatchers, and fleet support staff.
• Develop delivery plans to meet store stock requirements.
• Ensure compliance with SA road transport regulations and safety standards.
• Analyze transportation data and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with 3PLs and suppliers.
• Oversee vehicle maintenance programs for reliability.
• Maintain robust safety protocols for transport operations.
• Manage budgets and report on financial performance for transport.
• Collaborate with store managers and stakeholders for supply chain integration.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Route planning

Problem solving

Communication

Stakeholder management

Education

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

Tools

Transport Management Software (TMS)

Fleet management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent national retail chain, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Regional Transport Manager to oversee their logistics operations in the Durban region. This is a critical on-site role, essential for managing the efficient and timely distribution of goods to numerous store locations across KwaZulu-Natal. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of transport management systems, and a proven ability to optimize delivery networks. You will be responsible for a significant fleet and a dedicated team, ensuring adherence to strict safety and compliance standards. This role demands hands-on management and a strategic outlook to drive cost savings and enhance service levels. Join a respected company known for its commitment to operational excellence and employee development. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of transport operations in a key South African economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the regional transport fleet, including scheduling, routing, and maintenance.
• Supervise and lead a team of drivers, dispatchers, and fleet support staff.
• Develop and implement efficient delivery plans to meet store stock requirements and customer demands.
• Ensure full compliance with all South African road transport regulations, safety standards, and company policies.
• Monitor fleet performance, analyze transportation data, and identify areas for cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with third-party logistics providers and suppliers.
• Oversee vehicle maintenance programs to ensure fleet reliability and minimize downtime.
• Implement and maintain robust safety protocols for all transport operations.
• Handle operational budgets, control expenses, and report on financial performance for the transport department.
• Foster strong working relationships with store managers and other internal stakeholders to ensure seamless supply chain integration.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in transport and logistics management, with significant experience in a regional management capacity.
• Demonstrated experience managing a large fleet and team of personnel.
• Strong knowledge of South African transport legislation and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in transport management software (TMS) and other relevant logistics technologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Strong understanding of route planning and optimization techniques.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Durban or surrounding areas.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, reflecting the importance and responsibility of this role.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a retirement fund are provided.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the broader national network are significant.
• Employees benefit from regular performance reviews and professional development programs.
• A stable and supportive work environment within a reputable organization is guaranteed.
• Generous annual leave and other company benefits are included in the remuneration package.
• This role offers the chance to lead critical operations in one of South Africa's key commercial centers.