Logistics Manager, Port Elizabeth

Overview We are a Supply Chain and Sales&Merchandising partner adding value to your business through a fully integrated, temperature‑controlled network in Southern Africa. Our people are our greatest resource, delivering the best in tech, infrastructure, and service.

Position Details Permanent. Port Elizabeth.

Job Purpose To manage the overall logistics, both inbound and outbound, ensuring that operations within the Vector single depot are handled seamlessly.

Key Responsibilities Strategy Execution

Work in conjunction with the Regional Operations Manager to co‑create the regional operations strategy.

Collaborate across the business to deliver an integrated supply chain benefit and achieve strategic targets.

Drive improvements in operating processes and systems to optimise warehouse and transport efficiencies.

Determine operational capacity requirements and plan asset utilisation and CAPEX accordingly.

Optimise warehouse design and flow using growth opportunities.

Integrate international best practice through facility visits.

Identify supply‑chain bottlenecks and develop solutions with cross‑functional partners.

Monitor and drive achievement of depot strategic and operational targets.

Ensure operational targets are met via team targets aligned cross‑functionally.

Conduct weekly management meetings to review performance and plan for optimum future performance.

Maintain accurate short‑ and long‑term planning forecasts for decision‑making.

Logistics Management

Integrate business systems to support operational processes.

Monitor quality, quantity, cost and efficiency of stock movement and storage.

Maintain accurate stock control across depot functions.

Initiate and manage stock loss reduction programmes.

Provide system support to internal and external customers.

Optimise routes and vehicle utilisation between depots.

Continuously improve reverse logistics through observation, benchmarking and analysis.

Drive the logistics team to meet customer service levels at minimal cost.

Create a culture of KPI awareness and recognition.

Promote continuous improvement through regular communication and team meetings.

Collaborate with Principal and customer teams to develop fit‑for‑purpose solutions.

Risk Management

Mitigate risks to people and assets.

Apply the Group risk management policy consistently across the depot.

Lead the risk committee with monthly meetings and corrective actions.

Ensure full legal compliance with relevant legislation.

Re‑evaluate the risk profile annually.

Measure and manage sustainability practices.

Implement and maintain food safety standards with continuous learning.

Maintain security and investigate incidents appropriately.

Information and Data Management

Capture operating data accurately into the information system.

Analyse management information daily to meet targets and standards.

Suggest system changes for ongoing relevance and accuracy.

Share relevant data with management for reliable decision‑making.

Maintenance Management

Develop a maintenance plan aligned with the operational plan.

Promote sustainable maintenance practices across the depot.

Oversee transport maintenance, ensuring programmes are implemented.

Align maintenance practices with business standards.

Financial Management

Compile the annual distribution budget for the single depot.

Control costs to achieve the lowest storage and distribution costs.

Report weekly on actual KPI versus budget, addressing non‑conformance.

Manage input costs, ensuring timely resolution of spend variances.

Authorise expenses within authority, monitoring compliance with standards.

Encourage cost‑cutting initiatives that do not harm long‑term sustainability.

Enforce budget accountability across the management team.

Allocate spending to high‑priority areas within budgetary constraints.

Ensure operational planning meets budgeted volumes over a 2‑3 year horizon.

Review and authorise CAPEX documentation aligned with strategy.

Manage external supplier relationships and contracts with procurement.

Reconcile general ledger accounts and meet deadlines.

Deploy resources optimally using best‑practice productivity measurements.

Leadership

Lead the depot management team to achieve strategic objectives.

Maintain a stable industrial relations climate through constructive union relationships.

Deliver on succession plans to develop future leaders and specialists.

Drive employment equity and achieve statutory diversity targets.

Champion training and development through available opportunities.

Conduct regular performance appraisals and cascade the process.

Build high‑performance multidisciplinary teams to solve depot issues.

Encourage skill workshops across teams to transfer expertise.

Ensure management meetings are recorded, shared and action plans are delivered.

Maintain the employee relations climate and take corrective action when needed.

Monitor team performance and provide feedback.

Coach and support team members to achieve objectives.

Key Relationships Internal

Sales.

Finance.

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

External

Suppliers and service providers.

Principals.

Customers.

Qualifications and Experience

Matric qualification.

Minimum of a degree or diploma in logistics management.

Valid Code EB drivers' licence.

At least 5 years in a warehouse and distribution environment.

Skills and Competencies 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 and decision‑making.

Analytical and evaluative thinking.

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.

Transportation economics.

Vector Logistics supports the principles of Employment Equity and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with our Employment Equity Plan.

We truly appreciate your interest in joining the Vector team and encourage you to stay connected for future opportunities that may align with your skills and career journey.

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