Senior Operations Manager - Logistics & Distribution

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Equity potential

Executive leadership training

Remote-friendly

Co-working options in SA hubs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager to lead a globally dispersed logistics and distribution network from a remote-first environment. You will shape strategy, drive KPI performance, and ensure seamless integration of digital platforms with on-ground execution.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in logistics and operations, strong analytics with WMS/TMS experience, and proven leadership of remote teams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in SCM, logistics, or MBA or related field.
• Advanced certifications in supply chain or operations are strong plus.
• Minimum 10 years in logistics/operations, with senior leadership experience.
• Proven ability to lead remote, dispersed teams and complex networks.
• Strong analytics skills with experience in WMS/TMS technologies.
• Excellent financial acumen and cost-optimization experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee strategic direction and day-to-day operations of a distributed logistics network from a remote setting.
• Develop, monitor, and optimize KPIs to ensure efficiency, cost control, and SLA adherence.
• Drive continuous improvement via data analytics and digital tools across the supply chain.
• Manage budget, resources, and financial performance for the operations division.
• Lead and develop a high-performing, geographically dispersed team.
• Collaborate with Sales, IT, and Customer Service to align operational strategies.
• Implement risk management to ensure business continuity and resilience.
• Champion adoption of new technologies and digital tools for visibility and automation.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards across sites.
• Conduct performance reviews and provide strategic insights to senior leadership.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Remote leadership

Data analytics

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management

Advanced certifications in relevant areas

Tools

WMS

TMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in logistics and distribution, is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead their expanding remote operations division. This position is crucial for overseeing and optimizing the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of our clients' distribution networks across various regions, all managed from a remote-first environment. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of supply chain management, advanced analytics, and a proven ability to drive operational excellence through digital transformation and innovative strategies. You will lead a dispersed team, manage key performance indicators, and ensure seamless integration between our digital platforms and operational execution. This is a senior leadership role for an individual who thrives in a remote setting and is passionate about revolutionizing logistics operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of a distributed logistics and distribution network from a remote setting.
• Develop, implement, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure operational efficiency, cost control, and service level agreements (SLAs) are met or exceeded.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain, leveraging data analytics and technology to optimize workflows and processes.
• Oversee resource allocation, budget management, and financial performance for the operations division.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, geographically dispersed team of operations professionals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders (e.g., Sales, IT, Customer Service) to ensure alignment and integration of operational strategies.
• Implement and manage robust risk management strategies to ensure business continuity and resilience of the supply chain.
• Champion the adoption of new technologies and digital tools to enhance operational visibility, automation, and decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant industry regulations and safety standards across all operational sites.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide strategic insights to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Advanced certifications in relevant areas are a strong plus.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in logistics, distribution, and operations management, with a significant portion in senior leadership roles.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex, large-scale supply chains and remote operational teams.
• Proven expertise in leveraging data analytics, WMS (Warehouse Management Systems), TMS (Transportation Management Systems), and other supply chain technologies.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong leadership and change management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a remote workforce.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience in budget management and cost optimization.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to thrive and lead effectively in a fully remote work environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa, with the understanding that this role is fully remote.

Benefits

This senior remote position offers a highly competitive executive salary, along with a comprehensive benefits package including top-tier medical aid, generous retirement contributions, performance-based bonuses, and potential for equity. Our client is committed to providing exceptional career growth opportunities, including executive leadership training and development programs. As a fully remote role, this position offers unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of logistics operations for a global leader, working with cutting-edge technology and a dynamic, international team. While the role is remote, our client has a presence in key hubs like Cape Town, Western Cape , providing optional co-working resources.