Senior Manager : Commodity Planning, Distribution and Optimization

SA : Central Energy Fund; Durban; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A government energy agency in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban is seeking a Senior Manager for Commodity Planning, Distribution and Optimization. The ideal candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree and at least 8 years in commodity trading, with significant management experience. Responsibilities include overseeing logistics operations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and engaging with stakeholders to improve performance. This role is critical in maintaining efficient supply chains and optimizing inventory management.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in commodity trading, specifically in Petrochemical products.
• 5 years’ management experience with 1-3 years in Senior Management.

Responsibilities

• Prepare medium- and short-term commodity plans aligned with supply contracts.
• Oversee the fulfillment process from order placement to delivery.
• Implement inventory management practices to minimize stockouts.
• Analyze data for scheduling and distribution decisions.

Skills

Commodity trading experience

Management experience

Supply chain logistics

Data analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Logistics/Energy Economics

Postgraduate qualification in related field

Job description

Job title : Senior Manager : Commodity Planning, Distribution and Optimization

Job Location : KwaZulu-Natal, Durban Deadline : August 22, 2025

Required Minimum Qualifications and Experience :

• Bachelor’s degree / BTech degree (NQF level 7) in Engineering / Logistics / Energy Economics or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in commodity trading, specifically in Petrochemical products.
• 5 years’ experience in management, with 1-3 years in Senior Management in commodity trading.
• Experience in supply chain, commodity logistics, or refinery planning.
• Experience managing public sector projects or working in a state-owned entity is advantageous.
• Postgraduate qualification (NQF level 8) in Engineering / Logistics / Energy Economics or related field is an added advantage.

Key Performance Indicators :

Commodity planning & Scheduling

• Prepare medium- and short-term commodity plans aligned with supply contracts, demand forecasts, and refinery production schedules.
• Coordinate crude oil intake planning and refined product dispatch to minimize operational disruptions.
• Conduct market and commodity analysis.
• Develop and maintain new business opportunities and sustainable partnerships to ensure growth and profitability.
• Trade quality products on time and within budget to maximize economic value.

Distribution Management

• Oversee the entire fulfillment process, from order placement to delivery.
• Ensure timely and efficient supply of products, managing transportation and inventory across coastal and inland locations.
• Coordinate transport activities across modes (pipeline, road, rail, sea) for cost-effective delivery.
• Liaise with logistics providers and infrastructure entities (e.g., Transnet, port authorities).
• Optimize logistics costs related to product delivery, transport, and inventory management.

Inventory Optimization

• Implement inventory management practices to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Monitor stock levels to ensure product availability and cost-effective storage.
• Support stock holding policies and buffer requirements decisions.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze data for scheduling, pricing, and distribution decisions.
• Generate reports for decision-making and regulatory compliance.

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure adherence to SHEQ standards, energy regulations, and product handling legislation.
• Manage audits and resolve non-compliance issues.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with internal departments and external partners to align activities.
• Represent the refinery in coordination forums when delegated.

Budget Management

• Develop and submit departmental budgets annually.
• Ensure expenditures stay within guidelines and seek cost-saving opportunities.
• Procure goods and services timely as per SCM processes.