Supply Chain Director - Agri-Business

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic Supply Chain Director for its Mossel Bay operations in the Western Cape. The role oversees procurement, logistics, warehousing and distribution for diverse agricultural products, with a focus on cost efficiency and sustainability.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s in SCM and 10+ years in complex supply chains, including international logistics. Leadership and data-driven decision-making are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in SCM/related field.
• Minimum 10 years in supply chain management, with agri-business or food production exposure.
• Proven ability to design and implement supply chain strategies in complex environments.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with international and domestic logistics and procurement.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices in agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with business goals.
• Oversee procurement of raw materials, inputs, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
• Optimize inventory levels, reduce lead times, and minimize costs while ensuring quality.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, growers, logistics providers and stakeholders.
• Implement best practices in demand forecasting, network optimization, and risk management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing supply chain team.
• Utilize data analytics to enhance visibility and decision-making.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget and financial targets.
• Drive sustainability initiatives across the supply chain.

Skills

Leadership and people management

Negotiation

Strategic thinking

Data-driven decision making

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

SAP

Oracle ERP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading and innovative agri-business group, is seeking a strategic and results-oriented Supply Chain Director to oversee their extensive supply chain operations, headquartered in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This senior executive role is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable supply chain that supports the company's growth objectives. The Director will manage all aspects of procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution for a diverse range of agricultural products. This is a crucial position that offers the opportunity to leverage cutting-edge supply chain strategies in the dynamic agricultural sector of the Western Cape . The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of agricultural supply chains and a passion for driving operational excellence from farm to fork.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive supply chain strategy aligned with the company's overall business goals.
• Oversee all functions including procurement of raw materials, agricultural inputs, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
• Optimize inventory levels, reduce lead times, and minimize supply chain costs while ensuring product quality and availability.
• Manage relationships with key suppliers, growers, logistics providers, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.
• Implement best practices in supply chain management, including demand forecasting, network optimization, and risk management.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Lead and mentor a high-performing supply chain team, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Utilize technology and data analytics to enhance supply chain visibility, efficiency, and decision-making.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget, ensuring financial targets are met and exceeded.
• Drive sustainability initiatives throughout the supply chain, focusing on environmental and social responsibility.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, with significant experience in the agri-business or food production sector.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful supply chain strategies in complex environments.
• Strong understanding of agricultural production cycles and challenges.
• Demonstrated experience in managing international and domestic logistics, warehousing, and procurement.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain planning software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices in agriculture and supply chains.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary and a significant annual bonus based on performance. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage is provided, along with a generous retirement savings plan. Employees benefit from ample opportunities for professional development, including leadership training and attendance at international supply chain conferences. This role offers the chance to lead supply chain operations in the scenic Western Cape . A relocation package is available for successful candidates. Join a forward-thinking agricultural company committed to innovation, sustainability, and employee growth.