Logistics Manager (Port Elizabeth) at Econo Foods

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• The Logistics Manager is responsible for leading the Distribution Centre to deliver excellent customer service to Econofoods stores and wholesale customers while ensuring strong inventory control, cost efficiency and operational productivity.
• The role oversees all warehouse, distribution and processing operations for chilled, frozen and ambient products and ensures the efficient flow of goods from the distribution centre to stores and customers.
• The Logistics Manager will drive operational excellence through best practice warehouse management, strong team leadership and disciplined process execution. A key responsibility of the role will be to lead the preparation and implementation of a Warehouse Management System (WMS).
• The role requires a commercially minded logistics leader who can balance service delivery, cost management and operational efficiency while continuously improving distribution centre performance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Planning

• Taking your steer from the centrally developed logistics strategy, develop and implement regional logistics strategies to optimize the supply chain for chilled, frozen, and ambient products.
• Collaborate with senior management to align logistics activities with overall business objectives.

Warehouse Operations Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the distribution centre, including receiving, storage, replenishment, picking, packing and dispatch of products. Ensure efficient warehouse layout, product slotting and process discipline to maximise productivity and space utilisation.
• Drive best practice inventory management through cycle counting, location control and strong stock reconciliation processes to ensure high levels of inventory accuracy and minimal shrink.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to improve warehouse productivity, reduce operational waste and improve turnaround times.

Warehouse Management System Implementation

• Lead the preparation and implementation of a Warehouse Management System (WMS) within the Distribution Centre.
• Ensure warehouse processes are standardised and clearly defined prior to system implementation.
• Work closely with internal stakeholders and system implementation partners during configuration and rollout.
• Ensure strong operational adoption of the system through training, process discipline and performance monitoring.
• Use system data and reporting to drive improvements in inventory accuracy, productivity and service levels.

Distribution and Customer Service

• Ensure reliable and efficient distribution of products to Econo Foods retail stores and wholesale customers.
• Optimise delivery schedules and routes to improve on-time delivery performance and transport efficiency.
• Ensure high levels of order accuracy and fulfilment reliability.
• Take ownership of service levels and ensure that stores and customers receive the right products, in the right quantities, at the right time.

Quality Assurance and Safe Work Practices

• Implement and enforce quality control measures and food safety measures to maintain the integrity of chilled, frozen, and ambient products throughout the supply chain.
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address and resolve quality issues promptly.
• Create and maintain a healthy and safe work environment

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with local and regional regulations, especially those related to the transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive goods.
• Stay updated on industry standards and implement best practices.
• Implement all logistics processes and continuously monitor and measure compliance from all departments under your control.

Cost Management and Operational Efficiency

• Actively manage the logistics cost base within the distribution centre and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
• Monitor key cost drivers including labour productivity, transport utilisation and warehouse operating costs.
• Implement initiatives to reduce cost per case handled while maintaining high service levels and product quality.

Team Leadership:

• Lead and motivate the logistics team, providing guidance, training, and support as needed.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within the logistics team.

Collaboration:

• Effectively collaborate with partners in stock planning, sales, retail, and other support functions, as well as supply partners.

Change Management:

• Swiftly and effectively implement Logistics changes and innovations in a fast changing and rapid-paced environment.
• Ensure all stakeholders (including staff) are informed, aligned and accountable.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years experience in logistics, warehouse or distribution centre management.
• Experience in FMCG, retail or temperature-controlled distribution environments will be advantageous.
• Experience working with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or participating in system implementation projects.
• Strong knowledge of warehouse operations, inventory management and distribution processes.
• Proven experience managing operational teams and driving performance improvements.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

• Exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills, aligned to the HO HOLA values.
• Friendly, helpful, confident, humble, and team-oriented with strong emotional intelligence.
• Ability to operate in a competitive, high-pressure, dynamic retail environment.
• Strong and effective communication skills (written and verbal) with the ability to influence and build trust.
• High accuracy, attention to detail, and strong administrative capability.
• Demonstrates integrity, ownership, resilience, and a willingness to go the extra mile.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Effective interpersonal abilities.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Strong bias for action and self-management.