Transport jobs in South Africa

A leading South African transport and logistics company specializing in express deliveries, courier, and freight distribution services across South Africa seeks to permanently employ an experienced Operations Manager for their Vryheid branch.

The Operations Manager will take full accountability for the day-to-day management and optimization of the Vryheid branch’s operational performance.

This includes fleet management, express and courier operations, cost control, staff supervision, compliance, client service delivery, and coordination with head office and other branches.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring exceptional operational control, analytical insight, and the ability to manage staff, vehicles, and service levels in a dynamic and fast-paced logistics environment.

• Administration & Finance:
  • Manage staff overtime, leave approvals, timekeeping, and attendance records in line with company policy.
  • Authorize operational purchases and obtain order numbers prior to work commencement.
  • Monitor and manage fuel slips and consumption daily.
  • Analyze and check creditor invoices before submission to Branch Manager for approval.
  • Control all operational petty cash and COD transactions, ensuring accurate processing and reconciliations.
  • Manage and control branch phone and communication expenses (Telkom, cell phones).
  • Maintain tight cost control and ensure all operational expenses stay within budget; report deviations promptly.
• Fleet Management:
  • Oversee fleet maintenance, repairs, and service schedules.
  • Ensure vehicles, forklifts, and related assets are clean, roadworthy, and branded to corporate standards.
  • Monitor vehicle kilometers, COF renewals, license disc renewals, and insurance compliance.
  • Investigate all vehicle accidents, complete accident reports, and coordinate insurance claims.
  • Analyze vehicle fuel reports, performance trends, and initiate corrective action when required.
• Operations & Logistics:
  • Ensure express, courier, and freight deliveries are completed accurately and on time.
  • Supervise dispatch, collections, and warehouse operations to ensure service excellence.
  • Manage daily and weekly waybill control, POD tracking, and line haul manifest accuracy.
  • Generate weekly reports: service schedules, vehicle service due dates, fuel usage, and outstanding PODs.
  • Communicate proactively with clients about delays, special deliveries, or service concerns.
  • Monitor and optimize fleet utilization and cargo levels for both local and long-haul routes.
  • Ensure compliance with company safety, service, and image standards in all operations.
• Staff Supervision & Compliance:
  • Ensure all staff adhere to timekeeping, dress code, and safety protocols.
  • Oversee operational team performance, shift scheduling, and productivity.
  • Conduct regular staff meetings and implement corrective actions when necessary.
  • Manage new staff onboarding, training, and job applications for operational roles.
  • Enforce company disciplinary procedures where necessary.
• Buildings & Asset Management:
  • Conduct weekly inspections of branch premises, offices, and warehouses for maintenance and safety issues.
  • Maintain updated asset lists for all designated areas.
  • Monitor and verify reports from security and alarm service providers.
  • Approve cleaning, equipment servicing, and general upkeep expenses.

• Matric / Grade 12 (Essential).
• Tertiary qualification in Transport Management, Logistics, or Operations (adv).
• 5–8 years’ experience in a senior operational role within express, courier, or logistics transport.
• Proven ability to manage fleet operations, drivers, and delivery performance.
• Strong financial control skills (budgets, petty cash, fuel, and expenses).
• Solid understanding of fleet compliance, licensing, COF, and transport regulations.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office, Parcel Perfect, or equivalent logistics management software.
• Valid Driver’s Licence (Code 08 or higher).
• Own reliable vehicle (essential).

• Hands-on leader with a proactive management style.
• Detail-oriented and disciplined in enforcing operational standards.
• Strong decision-making ability under pressure.
• Committed to safety, compliance, and service excellence.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for managing clients, staff, and suppliers.