Depot Manager at Unitrans

Job Advert Summary    

• A vacancy exists for a Depot Manager to be based in the Unitrans various Operations in Chemicals Business Unit. 
• The position requires an individual preferably with a tertiary education in transport logistics or related field and a keen understanding of financial management. 

Minimum Requirements    

• The individual should have at least 5 to 7 years’ experience at a senior level.

Duties & Responsibilities    

The successful candidate will report to the General Manager and amongst others should possess the following skills:

Key Functional Areas

Depot Operations Management

• Ensure the efficient and effective execution of daily operational activities across both depots.
• Operational Oversight: Monitor daily dispatch, receiving, and yard operations (depot controls)
• Ensure all depot functions operate efficiently, meeting internal and customer requirements.
• Promote efficiency and productivity through continuous improvement initiatives.

Site and Facilities Management

• Maintain the integrity, safety, and functionality of all depot facilities and infrastructure.
• Oversee the upkeep of buildings, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Ensure facilities are maintained to company standards and operational readiness.
• Direct the Facilities Manager to deliver cost-effective maintenance solutions.
• Provide leadership and oversight to ensure proactive maintenance and compliance.
• Manage and evaluate performance of external service providers.
• Ensure third-party vendors deliver services in accordance with contractual agreements.

SHEQ Compliance and Risk Management

• Uphold the highest standards of safety, health, environment, and quality compliance across all operations.
• Facilitate safety meetings, inspections, and compliance initiatives.
• Foster a culture of safety awareness and continuous compliance improvement.
• Oversee the investigation and reporting of all site incidents.
• Ensure incidents are thoroughly investigated and corrective actions implemented.
• Enforce adherence to statutory, environmental, and occupational standards.
• Ensure full compliance with all legal and company SHEQ requirements.
• Ensure service providers maintain same levels of SHEQ standards.

Fuel and Tyre Stock Management

• Ensure the secure, accurate, and efficient management of on-site fuel and tyre inventories.
• Oversee fuel stock levels, calibration, and reconciliation.
• Maintain accurate and compliant fuel inventory control systems.
• Supervise tyre stock, usage, and cost efficiency.
• Ensure tyres are managed to optimize cost, performance, and safety.
• Implement and monitor controls to mitigate loss and theft risks.
• Safeguard company assets through disciplined monitoring and auditing.

Financial Management

• Achieve financial sustainability through effective budget management, cost control, and accurate reporting.
• Develop, manage, and monitor depot budgets.
• Analyze variances and implement corrective measures.
• Provide accurate financial insight to support strategic decision-making.
• Cost Control: Approve expenditure and manage procurement within approved limits and maintain cost discipline while ensuring operational continuity.

People Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a capable and motivated site team.
• Direct and support the Facilities, Tyre, and Washbay functions.
• Ensure team effectiveness through clear direction, coordination, and accountability.
• Conduct regular appraisals and development discussions.
• Promote performance excellence through structured feedback and guidance.
• Maintain workforce discipline and engagement.

Stakeholder and Client Coordination

• Promote strong collaboration and communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate activities across departments to achieve depot objectives.
• Facilitate effective communication and alignment with internal stakeholders.
• Engage service providers, auditors, and authorities professionally.
• Represent the company with integrity and ensure effective external partnerships.

Reporting and Performance Management

• Provide accurate and timely reporting to ensure operational visibility and accountability.
• Submit operational and financial performance reports (Flash)
• Deliver consistent reporting that supports informed management decisions.
• Present performance outcomes and improvement plans (4B) on monthly basis

Use performance data to identify trends and drive corrective action.

• Dashboard Management: Maintain updated metrics across operational areas. (Site Bottlenecks)
• Ensure performance indicators are monitored and reported with accuracy.
• The successful candidate should demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills. Furthermore, the nature of the business requires significant travel and a passion for the business.

Closing Date    

• 2025/10/23