Distribution Manager at Core Group

About the Role

• We are seeking an experienced Distribution Manager to lead and control end-to-end distribution operations within a fast-paced, high-security environment handling high-value mobile electronics. This role is critical to ensuring secure, cost-effective, and on-time delivery across multiple channels, while protecting revenue, brand reputation, and customer experience.
• The successful candidate will bring deep expertise in the South African courier and express delivery landscape, strong commercial acumen, and proven experience managing security-sensitive distribution networks.

Work Environment

• Office and Distribution Centre–based
• Travel required within South Africa and Southern Africa
• High-value, high-risk distribution environment
• Multi-channel distribution: DC-to-DC, retail, corporate, and end-customer
• Close interaction with couriers, armored vehicle providers, airlines, and cross-border logistics partners

Key Responsibilities

Distribution & Delivery Management

• Manage end-to-end distribution from the Kempton Park DC to retail stores, DCs, and end customers.
• Design and optimize delivery models, including:
• Rapid scooter deliveries (within-the-hour / same-day)
• Airline freighter solutions (domestic and cross-border within Southern Africa)
• Manage front-door and back-door deliveries, DC-to-DC, and DC-to-end-customer movements.

SLA, Cut-Off & Performance Management

• Define, manage, and enforce SLAs, delivery cut-offs, and service-level commitments.
• Measure and report on courier performance, on-time delivery, exceptions, and service adherence.
• Ensure compliance with approved delivery service types and escalation protocols.

Cost & Commercial Control

• Approve and manage all distribution-related costs.
• Monitor cost-to-serve by delivery type, region, and service level.
• Identify and implement cost optimization opportunities without compromising security or service quality.

Systems, EDI & Visibility

• Ensure effective EDI integration with multiple 3PL and courier partners.
• Maintain real-time track & trace, delivery visibility, and exception reporting.
• Provide accurate delivery status updates to internal stakeholders and customers.

Security & Risk Management

• Enforce strict controls for high-value goods in transit and at all handover points.
• Collaborate with security partners to mitigate theft, loss, and operational risk.
• Ensure compliance with internal security, audit, and insurance requirements.

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with courier and logistics service providers, customers, and internal stakeholders.
• Act as the escalation point for critical delivery or service failures.

Qualifications & Experience

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Management, or a related field
• Relevant logistics or supply chain certifications (advantageous)

Experience:

• Minimum 5+ years’ experience in the South African delivery and courier industry
• Proven experience managing high-value, security-sensitive distribution operations
• Strong exposure to SLA management, courier performance measurement, and delivery optimization
• Experience working with 3PLs, airline cargo operators, and express delivery services
• Experience managing EDI integrations with logistics partners

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of the South African courier, express, and linehaul delivery landscape
• SLA management and performance analytics
• Cost control and budget management
• EDI, WMS, and logistics systems integration
• Track & trace and delivery visibility tools
• High-value distribution security and risk management

Soft Skills:

• Strong leadership and decision-making ability
• High attention to detail and accountability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Ability to perform under pressure in time-critical environments
• Commercial and customer-focused mindset

Key Competencies:

• Operational excellence
• Commercial acumen
• Security awareness and risk mitigation
• Data-driven decision-making
• Relationship building and negotiation
• Continuous improvement mindset

 Closing Date 27 February 2026