Distribution Controller (Edenvale) at Econo Foods

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The purpose of a Distribution Controller is to manage Delivery Drivers and Delivery Assistants, coordinate load communications, track and expedite deliveries, resolve invoice discrepancies, ensure fleet maintenance and roadworthiness, manage driver shortages, communicate with customers regarding delivery times, oversee truck washing, implement performance tracking systems, manage fuel usage, and lead the distribution team. Their role is essential in optimizing delivery operations, maintaining customer satisfaction, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the distribution process.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Managing the Delivery Driver and Delivery Driver Assistant workforce, including their scheduling, assignments, performance monitoring, and adherence to company policies and procedures.
•  Load communications to drivers and assistants: Providing clear and accurate instructions and load information to Delivery Driver and Delivery Driver Assistants, ensuring they are well-informed about their assigned tasks and delivery requirements.
•  Driver tracking and expediting: Monitoring the progress of Delivery Driver and Delivery Driver Assistant during delivery routes, tracking their locations, and expediting deliveries as necessary to ensure timely and efficient service.
•  Driver debriefs: Conducting debrief sessions with drivers to gather feedback, address any issues or concerns, and identify opportunities for improvement in delivery operations.
•  Receiving delivery route packs and ensuring all governance and payment requirements are met: Customer signatures, Customer request forms, payment slips, etc.
•  Invoice corrections resolve re distribution: Resolving any invoice discrepancies or errors related to distribution activities, coordinating with relevant teams to ensure accurate and timely resolution.
•  Fleet maintenance, licensing, and roadworthiness: Ensuring the proper maintenance, licensing, and roadworthiness of the distribution fleet, scheduling regular maintenance and inspections, and coordinating necessary repairs and renewals.
•  Fleet pre-trip inspections: Ensure the conducting of pre-trip inspections of distribution vehicles to ensure their safety, functionality, and compliance with regulations before each delivery.
•  Reducing route shortages by conducting a root cause analysis and implementing corrective action. Address repeat offenders.
•  Address any customer inquiries or concerns related to deliveries.
•  Truck washing: Coordinating and managing the regular washing and cleanliness of distribution trucks to maintain a professional appearance and uphold hygiene standards.
•  Driver scorecard and Truck scorecard: Implementing performance tracking systems and scorecards to evaluate driver performance, track delivery metrics, and identify areas for improvement in driver efficiency and vehicle utilization.
•  Fuel management and investigations: Managing fuel usage and expenses, monitoring fuel consumption patterns, conducting investigations into fuel discrepancies or inefficiencies, and implementing strategies to optimize fuel management.
•  Truck resource planning: Effectively planning and coordinating truck resources to ensure efficient and timely outbound operations, considering factors such as capacity, availability, and delivery schedules. Allocate the correct staff and equipment to the various loading bays.
•  Review financial performance against budget.
•  Establishing and fostering a safe work environment by enforcing PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) usage and overall safety compliance.
•  Operate within safety standards.
•  Managing the team, including organizing daily, weekly, and monthly meetings, overseeing time and attendance, planning and managing leave, and addressing industrial relations and providing relevant coaching and training.
•  Conduct team meetings.
•  Monitor and contribute to the overall achievement of the team's goals.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum 5 years warehousing and logistical experience

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

• Building and maintaining relationships with strong interpersonal skills - living out the company values and unique HO HOLA culture. 
• Friendly, helpful, confident yet humble, and able to work well in a team.
• Ability to work in a highly competitive, fast-paced past and dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. With the ability to communicate fluently in English (written and verbal).
• Comprehensive knowledge of Microsoft.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.