Warehouse Manager at Omnia (Pty) LTD

PURPOSE

• The Warehouse Manager is responsible for leading and optimising all warehouse operations to ensure the efficient receipt, storage, handling, distribution, and availability of products. The role oversees inventory management, production planning, logistics coordination, contractor management, and warehousing activities to ensure high service levels, stock accuracy, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The incumbent plays a critical role in supporting regional demand planning, distribution, and supply chain performance.

WHAT YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

Warehouse Operations Management

• Lead and manage all warehouse operations, including receiving, storage, handling, picking, packing, and dispatch activities.
• Ensure operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, and service excellence.
• Develop and implement warehouse processes and operating procedures.
• Monitor warehouse performance against operational targets and service levels.
• Manage warehouse resources, equipment, space utilisation, and workflow optimisation.
• Ensure products are stored and handled according to quality and safety standards.

Production Planning & Demand Management

• Develop regional production plans based on forecasts, demand trends, weather patterns, and customer requirements.
• Collaborate with distribution and production teams to align production volumes with demand.
• Plan procurement requirements for externally sourced products.
• Support demand forecasting and regional planning activities.
• Monitor product availability to ensure uninterrupted customer supply.

Inventory & Stock Management

• Maintain accurate inventory records and stock control processes.
• Ensure stock accuracy through regular reconciliations, stock counts, and audits.
• Manage stock journals, stock adjustments, rebagging activities, and inventory-related investigations.
• Resolve inventory discrepancies and escalate issues where required.
• Ensure effective product allocation and inventory availability across depots and customer locations.

Logistics & Scheduling

• Coordinate product scheduling and distribution to customers, depots, and other facilities.
• Schedule transport requirements and manage truck allocations.
• Ensure products are delivered on time and in line with customer expectations.
• Collaborate with scheduling teams to optimise dispatch and delivery plans.
• Maintain effective communication with customers and sales teams regarding delivery schedules.

Transport & Contractor Management

• Manage relationships with transport contractors and service providers.
• Ensure contractor compliance with company standards, policies, and safety requirements.
• Monitor contractor performance and service delivery.
• Negotiate transport rates and manage transport-related costs.
• Ensure timely processing of contractor payments.
• Identify opportunities to improve transport efficiency and reduce logistics costs.

Customer Service & Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with customers, sales teams, agents, and internal stakeholders.
• Provide regular updates regarding order status, deliveries, and product availability.
• Address customer and operational queries promptly and effectively.
• Support regional growth initiatives by ensuring supply chain readiness and service excellence.
• Collaborate with Sales Managers and agents to align supply capabilities with customer requirements.

Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (SHEQ)

• Ensure compliance with all SHEQ policies, standards, and legal requirements.
• Promote and maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
• Maintain warehouse safety records and documentation.
• Conduct and support safety training and awareness initiatives.
• Work closely with Warehouse Coordinators to manage safety, compliance, and risk mitigation activities.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop warehouse personnel.
• Set performance expectations and monitor team performance.
• Identify and coordinate training and development requirements.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Manage staffing requirements to support operational demands.

Systems & Continuous Improvement

• Support implementation and optimisation of ERP and warehouse management systems, including Microsoft Dynamics 365.
• Identify opportunities to improve warehouse processes, service levels, and operational efficiency.
• Participate in business improvement and supply chain optimisation initiatives.
• Proactively anticipate operational challenges and implement corrective actions.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

Qualifications

• Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Materials Management, Logistics, or a related field

Experience

• Minimum 5 years' post-qualification experience in a materials management, warehousing, or distribution environment
• Experience with Computerised Inventory Management Systems
• Knowledge of Safety, Health, Environment, Risk, and Quality (SHEQ) systems
• Experience within the chemical, manufacturing, agricultural, or related industry would be advantageous

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Warehouse and inventory management expertise
• Production and demand planning
• Logistics and distribution management
• Supply chain coordination
• Contractor and vendor management
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Inventory control and reconciliation
• Customer service orientation
• Negotiation and cost management skills
• Leadership and team development capability
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Planning, organising, and prioritisation skills
• Ability to manage multiple operational activities simultaneously
• Knowledge of SHEQ requirements and warehouse compliance standards
• ERP and warehouse systems proficiency, including Dynamics 365

Personal Attributes

• Customer-focused and service-oriented
• Self-motivated and proactive
• Strong leadership presence
• Detail-oriented and highly organised
• Able to perform effectively under pressure
• Results-driven and accountable
• Adaptable and commercially aware
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Willingness to work extended hours when operationally required