Logistics Manager - Worcester at RCL Foods

Job Description    

To manage the overall logistics, both inbound and outbound, ensuring that operations within the Vector multi-depot are handled seamlessly and to be based at Worcester - Western Cape. 

As the Logistics Manager in charge of a multi-depot, the job holder is expected to:

• Make all operational decisions that fall within the ambit of responsibility.
• Immediately solve all operational problems within the multi-depot, including resourcing, coordination, compliance and relationships
• Influence operational decision-making across the region
• Identify and implement innovations, particularly those that will reduce costs and improve efficiencies and productivity. cultivate 
• Entrepreneurial thinking to facilitate the concept of growth within logistics.

Minimum Requirements    

• Minimum of a degree or diploma in logistics management
• Valid Code EB drivers' licence
• A minimum of 5 years in a warehouse and distribution environmeny

Internal

• Sales.
• Finance.
• The broader supply chain management team (especially supply chain and transport planning).

External

• Suppliers and service providers.
• Principals.
• Customers.

Knowledge

• SAP and other ERP systems.
• Warehousing principles and practices.
• Company sales strategy and customer and product priorities.
• Supply chain principles and methodologies.
• Company and Group economics (supply and demand).
• Applicable legislation for warehouse and transport management (risk, health, safety and environmental).
• Transportation economics

Skills

• Financial management
• Planning, organisation and coordination
• Negotiation
• Relationship building
• Computer literacy (MS Office)
• Verbal and written communication
• Interpersonal
• Logical thinking
• Innovative and creative thinking
• Problem solving
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making
• Analytical and evaluative thinking

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Collaborate with the Regional Operations Manager to craft a dynamic strategy spanning 1 to 3 years, ensuring alignment with business needs.
• Drive the integration of supply chain benefits across the organization, optimizing processes and achieving strategic targets. Implement enhancements in operational processes and systems to boost warehouse and transport efficiencies.
• Forecast operational capacity requirements for the medium and long term, aligning asset utilization and capex accordingly. Leverage growth opportunities to optimize warehouse design and flow, staying ahead of international trends and integrating best practices.
• Identify and resolve supply chain bottlenecks through collaboration with relevant stakeholders, monitoring and achieving multi-depot targets.

Logistics Optimization

• Integrate business systems seamlessly to support operational processes, ensuring quality, cost-effective movement and storage of stock. Manage stock accurately across all depots, spearheading stock loss reduction initiatives and optimizing vehicle fleet utilization.
• Drive continuous improvement in reverse logistics, fostering a culture of commitment to key performance indicators (KPIs) and best practices. Collaborate closely with Principals and customers to develop tailored solutions while minimizing costs.

Risk Mitigation & Compliance

• Mitigate risks to people and assets, ensuring consistent application of risk management policies and full legal compliance.
• Lead the risk committee process, analyzing findings and implementing corrective actions while maintaining sustainability practices. Ensure food safety standards, security, and investigations where incidents occur.

Efficient Data Management

• Ensure accurate capture of operating data for reliable reporting and decision-making, analyzing management information daily for productivity and target achievement.
• Propose system changes for relevance and accuracy, sharing data with management for informed decision-making.

Maintenance & Financial Oversight

• Develop and execute a maintenance plan aligned with operational goals, driving sustainable practices and optimal asset utilization.
• Compile and manage the distribution budget, monitoring costs, and addressing areas of non-conformance promptly.
• Authorize expenses, enforce budgetary discipline, and manage external supplier relationships for optimal service levels. Review capex proposals aligned with long-term strategy, manage general ledger accounts, and optimize resource deployment.

Inspiring Leadership

• Lead the management team to meet strategic objectives through effective communication and talent management.
• Maintain a constructive relationship with unions, drive succession planning, and promote diversity and training.
• Conduct regular performance appraisals, coach team members, and foster a high-performance culture. Monitor KPIs including warehouse productivity, compliance, customer service, and logistics costs.