Senior Operations Manager - Retail Distribution

Placements24; KwaZulu-Natal; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Professional development

Hybrid work

Leadership programs

Career advancement

Diverse challenges

Job summary

Placements24 in KwaZulu-Natal's Pietermaritzburg region is seeking a seasoned Senior Operations Manager to oversee the distribution network. You will drive operational efficiency, manage inventory, warehousing and transportation, and lead a high-performing team to meet KPIs.

In this hybrid role, you will balance remote strategic planning with hands-on on-site leadership, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards while partnering with procurement, sales and customer

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, preferably within retail or distribution.
• Proven experience in managing large teams and complex operational environments.
• Strong understanding of warehouse management systems (WMS) and supply chain technologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance efficiency and reduce costs within the distribution center.
• Oversee daily operations, including inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and order fulfillment.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions to achieve operational targets.
• Manage budgets, resources, and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and service quality.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations within the facilities.
• Collaborate with procurement, sales, and customer service to align operational strategies with business goals.
• Drive process improvements and best practices in logistics and supply chain management.
• Manage and optimize warehouse space and equipment utilization.
• Report on operational performance to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Data analysis

Budget management

WMS proficiency

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics / Supply Chain / Business Admin

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the retail sector, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Operations Manager to oversee their distribution network in the Pietermaritzburg region. This is a pivotal role for an individual with a proven track record in supply chain management, logistics, and team leadership. You will be instrumental in driving operational efficiency, optimizing workflows, and ensuring the seamless flow of goods from suppliers to our client's retail outlets. The ideal candidate will possess a strategic mindset, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for operational excellence. This hybrid role offers the flexibility to combine working from home with essential on-site presence, fostering a balanced and productive work environment within the vibrant province of KwaZulu-Natal. We are looking for a proactive leader who can navigate complex operational challenges and contribute significantly to the company's continued growth and success in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance efficiency and reduce costs within the distribution center.
• Oversee daily operations, including inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and order fulfillment.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to achieve operational targets.
• Manage budgets, resources, and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effectiveness and service quality.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations within the operational facilities.
• Collaborate with other departments, including procurement, sales, and customer service, to align operational strategies with business objectives.
• Drive process improvements and implement best practices in logistics and supply chain management.
• Manage and optimize the utilization of warehouse space and equipment.
• Report on operational performance to senior management.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management, preferably within the retail or distribution sector.
• Proven experience in managing large teams and complex operational environments.
• Strong understanding of warehouse management systems (WMS) and supply chain technologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability in strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
• Proficiency in data analysis and performance management.
• Experience with budget management and financial oversight.
• Knowledge of South African labor laws and industrial relations.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a growing organization.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a blend of remote and office-based work.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment committed to employee well-being.
• Potential for leadership development programs.
• Exposure to diverse operational challenges within the retail sector.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the operational success of a key player in the Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal market.