Section Manager – Cold Storage Operations (Citrus Export), Port Elizabeth, South Africa

A leading cold storage and export logistics facility in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Section Manager to oversee cold storage operations relating to citrus fruit exports. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing operational teams, ensuring cold chain integrity, and maintaining compliance with export market requirements.

This role requires a hands-on operational leader who can take full responsibility for the section and contribute to operational efficiency from day one.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily cold storage and dispatch operations relating to citrus fruit exports.

• Ensure compliance with export market protocols and cold treatment requirements.

• Manage operational teams including loaders, forklift drivers, fridge operators, scanners, and dispatch clerks.

• Ensure accurate loading of containers and adherence to dispatch specifications.

• Monitor stock movement and pallet handling within cold rooms and dispatch bays.

• Maintain strict cold chain integrity and ensure correct temperature management for all products.

• Coordinate container arrivals and loading schedules with transporters and forwarding agents.

• Prepare and manage documentation required for export inspections.

• Liaise with relevant regulatory authorities and ensure readiness for inspections.

• Investigate and resolve operational issues including damaged pallets, container issues, and equipment damage.

• Conduct daily operational meetings and manage workflow planning.

• Monitor staff performance, manage rosters, and ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.

• Ensure cold rooms and operational areas are maintained in a clean and safe condition.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field.

• Minimum 8–10 years' experience in cold storage, fruit export, or packhouse operations.

• Strong knowledge of citrus handling and export market requirements.

• In-depth understanding of cold chain management and temperature-controlled storage.

• Experience dealing with export inspections and regulatory compliance.

• Proven experience managing operational teams in a warehouse or cold storage environment.

• Strong leadership, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure during peak export seasons.