Supply Chain Optimization Specialist - FMCG Logistics

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Supply Chain Optimization Specialist to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and performance of supply chain operations across South Africa. This predominantly remote role requires a strong quantitative background and the ability to work independently from a home office.

The ideal candidate will analyze complex data, identify bottlenecks, and develop strategic solutions for logistics, inventory management, and distribution, collaborating with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field or Supply Chain Management.
• 5+ years in supply chain, logistics, or operations, preferably FMCG.
• Proven ability to optimize processes and reduce costs.
• Strong data analysis, modeling, and communication skills.
• Experience with ERP/WMS/TMS and advanced Excel.

Responsibilities

• Analyse current supply chain processes to identify inefficiencies and cost savings.
• Develop and implement optimized logistics and distribution strategies.
• Forecast demand and manage inventory using analytics and modeling.
• Collaborate with procurement, operations, sales and external partners.
• Establish and report on supply chain performance metrics.
• Evaluate new technologies and best practices for enhancement.
• Maintain relationships with logistics providers and suppliers.
• Create business cases for improvements and present to management.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

Skills

Data analysis

ERP/WMS/TMS

Advanced Excel

Lean Six Sigma

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

ERP systems

WMS

TMS

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the FMCG industry, is actively seeking a highly analytical and innovative Supply Chain Optimization Specialist to join their dynamic team. This is a critical role focused on enhancing the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall performance of the company's supply chain operations across South Africa. This position is predominantly remote, allowing you to contribute your expertise from the convenience of your home office. You will be responsible for analyzing complex supply chain data, identifying bottlenecks, and developing strategic solutions to streamline logistics, inventory management, and distribution processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong quantitative background, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and a thorough understanding of modern supply chain principles within the fast-paced FMCG environment. Your insights will directly impact our ability to deliver products to market efficiently and reliably, ensuring customer satisfaction and operational excellence. We value data-driven decision-making and proactive improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse current supply chain processes to identify inefficiencies, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement optimized logistics and distribution strategies.
• Utilize advanced analytics and modeling techniques to forecast demand and manage inventory levels effectively.
• Collaborate with internal teams (procurement, operations, sales) and external partners to ensure seamless supply chain flow.
• Implement and manage supply chain performance metrics and reporting systems.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies and best practices to enhance supply chain capabilities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with logistics providers and suppliers.
• Create business cases for supply chain improvement initiatives and present them to management.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, Operations Research, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in supply chain management, logistics, or operations, preferably within the FMCG sector.
• Proven experience in optimizing supply chain processes and reducing operational costs.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in data analysis and modeling.
• Proficiency in supply chain software (e.g., ERP, WMS, TMS) and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent understanding of inventory management, demand planning, and logistics principles.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Experience with Lean or Six Sigma methodologies is advantageous.
• Must be based in South Africa and able to work independently in a remote setting.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Remote work flexibility, enabling a strong work-life balance.
• Contribution to medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and training in supply chain technologies.
• Access to advanced analytics tools and software.
• A collaborative and forward-thinking team environment.
• Annual bonus based on performance and project success.
• Exposure to diverse supply chain challenges within a leading FMCG company.