Supply Chain Manager - FMCG Distribution

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager to oversee end‑to‑end operations. The role combines on‑site leadership with strategic planning in a hybrid work model and focuses on optimizing warehousing, distribution, and inventory controls in the FMCG sector.

You will lead a cross‑functional team, implement cost-saving initiatives, manage relationships with 3PLs and suppliers, and drive KPI improvements across the supply chain to support business

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM, logistics, business admin, or related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in supply chain management (FMCG preferred).
• Experience in warehousing, distribution, and logistics operations.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and SCM software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee procurement, inventory, warehousing, and transportation.
• Develop strategies to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery times.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers and suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and quality standards.
• Implement robust inventory control to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget.
• Use planning software to enhance visibility and decision-making.
• Monitor KPIs and take corrective actions.
• Collaborate with Sales and Operations to align activities with business objectives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Negotiation

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in SCM / Logistics / BA / related field

Master's degree or APICS (preferred)

Tools

ERP systems

SCM software

3PL systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the FMCG industry, is looking for a strategic and experienced Supply Chain Manager to oversee operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient and effective flow of goods from production to the end consumer. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of logistics, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution within the demanding FMCG environment. This position operates on a Hybrid model, requiring a balance of on-site operational oversight and strategic planning, ensuring seamless coordination across all supply chain functions. We seek a results-driven leader with a proven ability to optimize supply chain performance, reduce costs, and enhance service levels, contributing significantly to our business success in the KwaZulu-Natal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, and transportation.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, and improve delivery times.
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers and suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and quality standards within the FMCG sector.
• Implement and manage robust inventory control systems to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and high performance.
• Develop and manage the supply chain budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Utilize supply chain planning software and other technologies to enhance operational visibility and decision-making.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and other departments to ensure alignment of supply chain activities with business objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., APICS) is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in supply chain management, with a significant portion within the FMCG industry.
• Proven experience in managing warehousing, distribution, and logistics operations.
• Strong understanding of South African supply chain regulations and market dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and ERP systems.
• Experience with Hybrid work models, balancing operational presence with strategic remote work.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data and implement effective solutions.
• Strong negotiation skills with suppliers and logistics partners.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses and comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits.
• This Hybrid role provides the opportunity to work within a dynamic FMCG company with significant growth potential.
• You will have the chance to lead a dedicated team and drive strategic improvements in a critical business function in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
• Access to professional development and training programs will support your career growth within the organization.
• Enjoy a collaborative work environment where your contributions to optimizing the supply chain are highly valued.