Supply Chain Optimization Manager

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 850,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Learning & development

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Supply Chain Optimization Manager for a fully remote role in South Africa. You will analyze, redesign, and implement improvements across the supply chain network to cut costs and boost service levels.

The ideal candidate brings 6–8 years in SCM, strong analytics and experience with ERP systems, plus comfort with leading distributed teams. You will collaborate with procurement, operations and sales, set KPIs, and drive cross-functional cost reductions while staying

Qualifications

• 6–8 years in supply chain management, logistics or operations with optimization experience.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven problem solving.
• Experience with SAP, Oracle or Manhattan Associates ERP systems.
• Excellent project management and stakeholder communication abilities.
• Bachelor's degree in a related field; Master's is a plus.
• Experience in remote work and managing distributed teams is valued.

Responsibilities

• Analyze existing supply chain processes to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.
• Develop strategies to optimize inventory, logistics, warehousing and transportation.
• Use modeling and simulation tools to evaluate potential improvements.
• Collaborate with procurement, operations and sales to drive initiatives.
• Establish KPIs and report progress; drive cost reductions and service improvements.
• Lead deployment of WMS, TMS and ERP systems to improve visibility.
• Manage cross-functional projects focused on supply chain optimization.
• Build strong relationships with vendors and service providers.
• Stay current with industry best practices and emerging trends.

Skills

Analytical skills

Data analysis

Project management

Stakeholder influence

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Master's degree

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Manhattan Associates

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national distributor of industrial goods, is seeking an analytical and proactive Supply Chain Optimization Manager to join their remote team. While conceptually linked to operations in Polokwane , this position is fully remote, allowing the candidate to work from anywhere. The primary focus of this role will be to analyze, redesign, and implement improvements across the company's entire supply chain network to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of supply chain principles, and a proven ability to drive change through data-driven insights.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing supply chain processes, identifying bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize inventory management, logistics, warehousing, and transportation.
• Utilize supply chain modeling and simulation tools to evaluate potential improvements and their impact.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (procurement, operations, sales) and external partners (suppliers, carriers) to drive supply chain initiatives.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for supply chain performance and report on progress.
• Implement and manage supply chain technologies, such as WMS, TMS, and ERP systems, to enhance visibility and efficiency.
• Lead cross-functional projects focused on cost reduction and service level improvement within the supply chain.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with supply chain vendors and service providers.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging trends in supply chain management and optimization.
• Conduct regular performance reviews of the supply chain network and recommend strategic adjustments.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6-8 years of experience in supply chain management, logistics, or operations, with a strong focus on optimization and process improvement.
• Proven experience in analyzing and improving complex supply chain networks.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques.
• Experience with supply chain software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Manhattan Associates).
• Excellent project management and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Experience in a remote work environment and managing distributed teams is highly valued.
• Familiarity with the South African distribution landscape is advantageous.

Benefits

• This is a fully remote role offering significant flexibility and work-life balance.
• Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, complemented by an annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive benefits include excellent medical aid coverage, a substantial retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Continuous learning and development opportunities are provided, along with generous paid time off.
• Join a forward-thinking team focused on driving efficiency and innovation.