Senior Operations Analyst - Supply Chain Optimization

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary + bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Paid annual leave

Life insurance

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 represents a premier management consultancy client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeking a Senior Operations Analyst specializing in Supply Chain Optimization. The role blends strategic on-site client engagement with focused remote analysis, requiring strong analytical acumen and stakeholder coordination.

You will dissect complex supply chains, design optimization solutions, and mentor junior analysts while contributing to client pitches and proposals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM or related quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in supply chain analysis or operations consulting.
• Proven expertise in optimization techniques and SCM software (SAP APO, Oracle SCM, JDA).
• Strong analytical skills with data analysis tools (Excel, SQL, Python).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Analyze end-to-end supply chains including logistics, warehousing, inventory, and procurement.
• Develop optimization strategies to cut lead times and costs.
• Forecast demand and design distribution networks using analytics.
• Assess client supply chain capabilities and identify enhancements.
• Collaborate with clients to implement sustainable supply chain solutions.
• Lead project deliverables, timelines, and quality standards.
• Prepare reports and presentations for executive teams.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
• Mentor junior analysts and support business development.

Skills

5+ years experience

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related quantitative field

Tools

SAP APO

Oracle SCM

JDA

Excel

SQL

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished management consultancy firm, is actively seeking a Senior Operations Analyst with a specialization in Supply Chain Optimization to join their esteemed practice in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This challenging role requires an individual adept at dissecting intricate supply chain networks, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing data-driven solutions to enhance operational performance and reduce costs. You will play a crucial role in advising clients on best practices, technology adoption, and strategic network design to achieve competitive advantages. The position offers the chance to work with major players in various industries, tackling complex logistical puzzles. This role is hybrid, blending strategic on-site client engagement with focused remote analysis, providing a dynamic work experience. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical acumen, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of global supply chain dynamics. You will be instrumental in driving tangible improvements for our clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze end-to-end supply chain operations, including logistics, warehousing, inventory management, and procurement.
• Develop and implement optimization strategies to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, and minimize costs.
• Utilize advanced analytics and modeling techniques to forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and design distribution networks.
• Conduct detailed assessments of client supply chain capabilities and identify areas for enhancement.
• Collaborate with clients to design and implement sustainable supply chain solutions.
• Manage and execute project deliverables, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and recommendations for client executive teams.
• Stay current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices in supply chain management.
• Mentor and guide junior analysts, fostering a culture of continuous learning and operational excellence.
• Support business development activities by contributing to proposals and client pitches.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain analysis, logistics management, or operations consulting.
• Proven expertise in supply chain optimization techniques and software (e.g., SAP APO, Oracle SCM, JDA).
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Python).
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a strategic mindset.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated project management experience and the ability to manage multiple initiatives.
• Experience in developing and presenting business cases and strategic recommendations.
• Familiarity with current trends such as sustainability in supply chains and digital transformation.
• Ability to work effectively in both remote and on-site settings.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required for this role, along with a performance-based bonus.
• Employees are provided with a comprehensive medical aid plan.
• A substantial contribution to a provident fund.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development, including access to industry conferences and specialized training programs.
• The hybrid work model offers a balance between focused analytical work and engaging client interaction.
• Paid annual leave.
• Life insurance.
• Clear pathways for career advancement within the consultancy.