National Transport Manager

SUMMARY:
Cato Ridge, Durban, KZN

POSITION INFO:

A leading player in the frozen foods and cold chain distribution sector is seeking an experienced and commercially minded National Transport Manager to lead and optimise its national transport operations across South Africa and neighbouring African countries.

This is a senior leadership opportunity suited to a highly analytical, operationally strong transport professional with extensive fleet management, cross-border logistics, and people leadership experience.

The successful candidate will take full responsibility for a large national fleet operation, ensuring optimal service delivery, cost control, compliance, operational efficiency, and continuous improvement across the transport division.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a resilient, hands-on leader who thrives in a demanding operational environment and can balance strategic oversight with day-to-day execution. The ideal candidate will be commercially aware, highly analytical, operationally strong, and confident managing both people and process across a complex national transport function.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all national transport operations, including cross-border logistics.
• Oversee a fleet comprising:
• 19 cross-border vehicles
• 70 skeletal trailers
• 10 local distribution vehicles
• Manage and develop a team of approximately 50 staff, including middle management.
• Drive operational excellence through KPI monitoring, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure fleet compliance, vehicle roadworthiness, preventative maintenance, licensing, and operational efficiency.
• Monitor and control transport costs, including fuel procurement and cost-per-kilometre analysis.
• Compile detailed monthly transport and cost-centre reports using Excel.
• Manage transport documentation, customs processes, and cross-border regulatory compliance.
• Handle supplier negotiations, audits, tenders, and service-level management.
• Support performance management, disciplinary processes, and HR-related matters including CCMA representation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and customers.
• Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration, safety, and continuous learning.

Minimum Requirements

• Matric (Grade 12)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Transport Management or related qualification
• Minimum 10 years’ management experience within transport, fleet, or logistics operations
• Strong cross-border transport and fleet management experience essential
• Solid understanding of transport financials, operational reporting, and fleet cost analysis
• Good working knowledge of truck and refrigeration unit maintenance
• Advanced Excel and reporting capability
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
• Experience managing large operational teams in a fast-paced environment
• Sound knowledge of transport legislation, labour legislation, and health & safety compliance