Operations Manager

My client, a well-established company based on the outskirts of Somerset West, is seeking to employ an Operations Manager with at least 5 years' experience to join the team.

The main purpose of this role is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the export distribution process, including managing personnel, optimizing processes, and ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of orders. The role plays a crucial part in achieving operational excellence, maintaining inventory accuracy, and enhancing customer satisfaction by working closely with the Customer Success team.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Operations Management, or a related field
• At least 5 years' proven experience in operations management, preferably within the beverage distribution industry; FMCG experience beneficial.
• Familiarity with wine export/distribution regulations and standards
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Initiative and proactivity essential
• Proficiency in logistics and inventory management software
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions
• Experience with logistics in Africa is a significant advantage

Duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Develop cost-effective and efficient route planning for road freight deliveries and optimize distribution schedules to ensure timely and accurate deliveries while minimizing transportation costs. Publish weekly manifest to relevant parties.
• Ensure tracking of cross-border shipments with analysis and interrogation to identify areas for optimisation and improvement. Regular review of supply chain efficiencies and benchmarking.
• Assist with design and updates of Landed Cost Calculators (LCCs).
• Responsible for initial exploration of new market logistics and export requirements in the Business Development (BD) process.
• Manage the operations team including procurement, export, and warehouse staff. Set KPIs and review performance regularly.
• Assist Brand Manager and Sales teams with stock forecasting and management of Par levels.
• Research and monitor quality control measures for wine during storage and transportation.
• Collaborate with sales and customer success teams to ensure seamless communication, coordination, and fulfillment of customer promises. Address customer concerns related to deliveries and implement improvements based on feedback.
• Maintain positive relationships with logistics and beverage suppliers.
• Negotiate contracts, monitor supplier performance, and ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of orders.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in the warehouse, including regular staff training. Implement safety protocols to ensure a secure working environment.
• Leverage technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
• Prepare regular reports on operational performance, including delivery metrics, inventory turnover, stock value, and other operational reports.
• Prepare annual budgets for freight and transport with the goal of achieving profitability.
• Identify areas for cost savings and implement budget controls.
• Design documented systems and processes to fulfill all operational requirements.
• Oversee export processes and manage high-level export and duty-free considerations, including correct use of Incoterms.