Senior Route Planner - FMCG Distribution

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Professional development and training

Incentives based on performance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Route Planner in Pretoria to design and optimize delivery routes across a large FMCG network. This hybrid role blends strategic analysis with on-site collaboration to ensure timely deliveries while minimizing costs.

You will use advanced routing software, analyze performance data, and work with warehouses to align routing with loading, dispatch, and vehicle capacity. A degree in Logistics and 5+ years experience are preferred.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in route planning or logistics optimization.
• Proficient with advanced route planning software.
• Strong data analysis and Excel/SQL skills.
• Understanding of vehicle capacity and delivery windows.
• Experience in FMCG distribution is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize delivery routes for a large FMCG fleet.
• Analyze performance data and identify bottlenecks.
• Collaborate with warehouses to align routing with loading and dispatch.
• Maintain route databases with real-time traffic and windows.
• Develop contingency plans for disruptions.
• Mentor junior planners and share best practices.
• Monitor fleet utilization and report findings.
• Stay updated on routing technologies.
• Ensure compliance with traffic regulations and delivery times.

Skills

Route planning

Analytical thinking

Data analysis

Communication skills

Independent remote work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics / Supply Chain / OR

Tools

ORTEC

Paragon

PTV Group

SQL

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.