Senior Route Planner - FMCG Distribution

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria seeks a Senior Route Planner for a hybrid role combining remote analytics with on-site collaboration. You will design, optimize, and implement efficient delivery routes across a vast FMCG distribution network to ensure timely deliveries and cost efficiency.

The role requires 5+ years in route planning or logistics optimization, proficiency with ORTEC/Paragon/PTV, and strong data skills. You will mentor junior planners and contribute to process improvements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in route planning or transportation management within FMCG or similar high-volume setting.
• Experience using ORTEC, Paragon, or PTV routing software.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills to interpret complex data sets.
• Proficiency with Excel, SQL, or similar data tools.
• Understanding of vehicle capacity, delivery time windows, and driver hours regulations.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement optimized delivery routes for a large fleet.
• Use routing software to minimize time, fuel, and costs.
• Analyze delivery data to identify bottlenecks and improvements.
• Coordinate with warehouse and operations for seamless integration.
• Manage route databases and update with real-time traffic and windows.
• Develop contingency plans for disruptions and train junior planners.
• Monitor fleet utilization and report key findings to management.
• Stay updated on new routing technologies and methods.
• Ensure routes comply with relevant traffic regulations and delivery constraints.

Skills

Route planning

Data analysis

FMCG logistics

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's in Logistics

Tools

ORTEC

Paragon

PTV Group

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major distributor of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), is looking for a highly analytical Senior Route Planner to join their team in Pretoria . This hybrid role combines strategic planning and data analysis performed remotely with essential on-site collaboration and operational oversight. You will be responsible for designing, optimizing, and implementing efficient delivery routes across a vast distribution network, ensuring timely deliveries while minimizing operational costs. Your expertise will directly impact customer satisfaction and the overall profitability of the distribution operation. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional with a passion for logistics optimization and a keen eye for detail.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement optimized delivery routes for a large fleet serving diverse customer locations.
• Utilize advanced route planning software and algorithms to minimize travel time, fuel consumption, and delivery costs.
• Analyze delivery performance data, identify bottlenecks, and recommend strategic improvements to routing and scheduling.
• Collaborate with warehouse and operations teams to ensure seamless integration of routing plans with loading and dispatch processes.
• Manage and update route databases, incorporating real-time traffic information, road closures, and customer-specific delivery windows.
• Develop contingency plans for route disruptions, such as vehicle breakdowns or unforeseen traffic issues.
• Train and mentor junior route planners and provide guidance on best practices.
• Monitor fleet utilization and performance metrics, reporting key findings to management.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and methodologies in route optimization and logistics planning.
• Ensure routes comply with all relevant traffic regulations and delivery time constraints.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in route planning, logistics optimization, or transportation management, specifically within FMCG distribution or a similar high-volume sector.
• Proven expertise in using advanced route planning software (e.g., ORTEC, Paragon, PTV Group).
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, SQL, or similar.
• Excellent understanding of transportation principles, including vehicle capacity, delivery time windows, and driver hour regulations.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to make data-driven decisions under pressure.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with various internal departments and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently in a remote capacity and collaborate effectively on-site for team meetings and operational reviews.
• A Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, or a related field is highly preferred.
• Experience with fleet management systems is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. The hybrid work model provides a balance between flexibility and team engagement. Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in logistics technology are available. You will be part of a stable and growing company within the essential FMCG sector, contributing to a vital supply chain. Potential for performance-based incentives is also a feature of this role.