Supply and Distribution Manager - Logistics
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Company: Leading Regional Logistics Provider
Experience: Minimum 10 years
Languages: French is an advantage
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Supply Chain & Logistics Manager to oversee and optimise end‑to‑end logistics operations across Southern and Central Africa.
Our company manages a diverse fleet operating in Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, supporting NGO partners, commercial clients, and humanitarian programmes.
This role requires a seasoned logistics professional with strong regional experience, regulatory knowledge, and operational leadership – capable of managing advanced supply chain functions including cold chain operations, Good Distribution Practices (GDP) compliance, and data‑driven performance management.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, manage, and optimise regional supply chain and logistics operations across multiple African countries.
- Oversee fleet management, routing, scheduling, cross‑border coordination, and multimodal operations.
- Support NGO and INGO partners in planning and delivering logistics solutions for humanitarian, development, and pharmaceutical/health programmes.
- Ensure full compliance with transport regulations, licensing requirements, customs processes, and safety standards.
- Obtain and maintain operational licenses and transport permits in Nigeria, DRC, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
- Engineer and manage cold chain operations, including temperature‑sensitive cargo handling, monitoring, equipment maintenance, and contingency planning.
- Ensure adherence to Good Distribution Practices (GDP) and quality assurance standards across warehousing, packaging, and transportation.
- Oversee warehouse operations, inventory control, distribution networks, and delivery performance.
- Coordinate with internal teams and field offices in the relevant countries.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, government authorities, and regulatory bodies.
- Drive operational efficiency, cost optimisation, and process improvements across regional operations.
Lead, mentor, and develop logistics staff across all sites.
Develop and deliver structured training programmes for new and existing drivers, including safety protocols, vehicle operation, compliance, route planning, and cold chain handling.
Conduct performance evaluations, operational audits, and enforce consistent professional and safety standards.
Prepare management reports, compliance documentation, and operational dashboards.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of professional experience in supply chain, logistics, transport operations, or humanitarian logistics.
- Proven experience working with NGOs, INGOs, or humanitarian organisations.
- Strong operational background in Nigeria, DRC, Zimbabwe, and/or Mozambique.
- Demonstrated experience managing cold chain logistics and ensuring GDP compliance.
- Experience obtaining licenses, permits, and regulatory approvals across multiple African countries.
- Experience in staff training and capacity building, including driver training.
- Crisis Management Team (CMT) training and demonstrated ability to respond effectively in emergency or high‑risk environments.
- Strong understanding of regional import/export regulations, customs processes, and compliance frameworks.
- Proficiency in advanced data analytics and visualization tools (e.g. Power BI, Tableau, or Qlik) for supply chain performance monitoring and optimisation.
- Knowledge and practical experience with SAP BPC (Business Planning and Consolidation) for financial forecasting, budgeting, and performance tracking.
- Hands‑on experience with SAP Warehousing Modules (e.g. SAP WM or EWM) for inventory management, stock control, and warehouse operations optimisation.
- Strong financial modelling and cost analysis skills to support budgeting, pricing, and strategic planning decisions.
- French language proficiency (spoken / written) strongly preferred.
- Relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and adapt to challenging environments.
Advantageous
- Experience with hazardous goods, medical supply chains, or emergency response logistics.
- Familiarity with donor requirements (USAID, FCDO / DFID, EU, UN agencies, etc.).
- French Speaking.
Benefits
Benefits are not provided in the original description; the role is competitive based on experience and regional exposure.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and regional exposure to:
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Management and Manufacturing