Supply Chain & Logistics Manager - Agri-Produce

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement plan

Annual leave

Sick leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Supply Chain & Logistics Manager to oversee operations in East London, Eastern Cape. You will optimize procurement, inventory, transportation, and delivery, with a focus on reducing waste and maintaining produce quality.

The role requires a degree in a related field and at least 5 years in supply chain, with strong leadership and ERP experience. Relocation to East London preferred for on-site leadership of a growing team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a field related to supply chain or logistics.
• 5+ years of experience in supply chain and logistics management, preferably in perishables.
• Experience managing complex logistics operations: transport, warehousing, inventory control.
• Strong understanding of cold chain management for fresh produce.
• Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage an efficient supply chain strategy for fresh produce.
• Oversee procurement of agricultural products, ensuring quality and timely delivery from suppliers.
• Manage inventory levels, including storage, handling, and rotation to minimize spoilage.
• Optimize transportation and distribution networks, selecting carriers and routes.
• Negotiate contracts and rates with logistics providers, suppliers, and partners.
• Implement and manage systems for tracking and tracing produce throughout the supply chain.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Analyze supply chain performance data to identify improvements and cost reductions.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets and ensure financial efficiency.
• Lead and motivate the supply chain and logistics team, fostering a collaborative environment.

Skills

Supply chain management

Logistics optimization

Negotiation

Vendor management

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing supplier of fresh agricultural produce, is seeking an experienced Supply Chain & Logistics Manager to oversee their operations in the East London, Eastern Cape region. This role is crucial for ensuring the efficient and timely movement of produce from farms to distribution centers and ultimately to customers. The manager will be responsible for optimizing the entire supply chain, from procurement and inventory management to transportation and delivery, with a strong focus on maintaining produce quality and minimizing waste. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in supply chain management, particularly within the perishable goods sector, and possess strong analytical, problem-solving, and leadership skills. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the logistics strategy of a key player in the agricultural supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage an efficient supply chain strategy for fresh produce.
• Oversee procurement of agricultural products, ensuring quality and timely delivery from suppliers.
• Manage inventory levels, including storage, handling, and rotation to minimize spoilage.
• Optimize transportation and distribution networks, selecting appropriate carriers and routes.
• Negotiate contracts and rates with logistics providers, suppliers, and other partners.
• Implement and manage systems for tracking and tracing produce throughout the supply chain.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant food safety regulations and quality standards.
• Analyze supply chain performance data to identify areas for improvement and cost reduction.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets, ensuring financial efficiency.
• Lead and motivate the supply chain and logistics team, fostering a collaborative work environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain and logistics management, preferably within the agricultural or perishable goods industry.
• Proven experience in managing complex logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, and inventory control.
• Strong understanding of cold chain management and best practices for handling fresh produce.
• Excellent negotiation, vendor management, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the East London, Eastern Cape area.
• A proactive approach to identifying and mitigating supply chain risks.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and expertise.
• This includes comprehensive medical aid benefits and a retirement savings plan.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave entitlements are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced logistics and supply chain training, are available.
• Employees will work in a dynamic and growing company with opportunities for career advancement.