Senior Operations Manager

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Performance bonuses

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager for our Soweto, Gauteng facility. You will oversee warehousing, inventory, logistics, and transportation, driving efficiency, cost controls, and safety compliance across a large operational network.

Lead a sizable team, implement lean practices, manage budgets, and partner with suppliers and carriers to sustain service levels and profitability in a competitive market.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• 7-10 years of progressive experience in operations management with large-scale warehousing and distribution.
• Experience managing complex operational environments and large teams.
• Knowledge of supply chain principles, logistics, inventory management, and warehouse operations.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and motivate staff at all levels.
• Analytical and data-driven decision making.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations including warehousing, inventory, logistics, and transportation.
• Develop and implement plans to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
• Lead and motivate a large team of operational staff, including supervisors and warehouse personnel.
• Ensure adherence to safety regulations, policies, and quality standards.
• Manage budgets, control expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain robust inventory control and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

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

Tools

WMS

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the retail distribution sector, is seeking a highly capable and experienced Senior Operations Manager to oversee their extensive operations based in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA . This leadership role is fundamental to ensuring the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of the distribution network. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in supply chain management, logistics, warehouse operations, and team leadership. You will be responsible for optimizing all operational processes, managing a large workforce, implementing cost-saving measures, and upholding the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. This is a critical position for driving business growth and maintaining customer satisfaction within a highly competitive market. The role is based in our Soweto facility, offering a challenging and rewarding career within a significant South African economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee and manage all aspects of day-to-day operations, including warehousing, inventory management, logistics, and transportation. Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels. Lead, motivate, and manage a large team of operational staff, including supervisors and warehouse personnel. Ensure adherence to all company policies, safety regulations, and quality standards. Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Implement and maintain robust inventory control systems to ensure accuracy and minimize stock discrepancies. Drive continuous improvement initiatives using lean principles and other operational excellence methodologies. Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers, carriers, and suppliers. Analyze operational data and KPIs to identify trends, performance issues, and areas for enhancement. Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and accountability within the operations department.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. Relevant postgraduate qualifications are a strong asset. A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in operations management, with a significant focus on large-scale warehousing and distribution. Proven track record of successfully managing complex operational environments and large teams. In-depth knowledge of supply chain principles, logistics, inventory management, and warehouse operations. Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and motivate staff at all levels. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making. Proficiency in WMS (Warehouse Management Systems) and ERP systems. Experience within the retail distribution sector in the Gauteng region is highly preferred. Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and implement cost-control measures effectively.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package up to ZAR per annum , commensurate with experience and qualifications. Comprehensive medical aid, a substantial retirement fund contribution, and performance-driven bonuses are provided. Significant opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and career advancement within a growing organization are available. This role is based in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA , offering a challenging and impactful career opportunity within the vital retail operations sector.