Operations & Logistics Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is a dynamic and ambitious family owned and run export trading business based in Durban that has been in existence for the last 52 years. They specialize in the export of FMCG's, fruit and vegetables, meat, wines and building materials to over 55 countries throughout the world.

The Operations and Freight manager is responsible for overseeing and optimising the end-to-end operational functions to ensure efficiency, compliance, and service excellence. The role provides operational leadership across warehouse operations (FMCG and Timber) in close collaboration with the Warehouse Manager, Export Services, Freight, Logistics and Clearing & Forwarding, as well as internal projects, travel coordination, and office administration. The Operations and Freight Manager ensures alignment between internal operations, external logistics partners, and international export requirements.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

Warehouse Oversight (FMCG & Timber)

• Work closely with the Warehouse Manager to ensure the efficient and compliant operation of both FMCG and Timber warehouse functions.
• Provide strategic and operational oversight rather than day-to-day supervision, ensuring warehouse activities support export schedules and customer commitments.
• Ensure coordination between warehouse operations, freight planning, and export documentation.
• Review and monitor warehouse KPIs including productivity, stock accuracy, turnaround times, space utilisation, and health & safety.
• Support capacity planning, layout optimisation, and continuous improvement initiatives across both warehouse environments.
• Act as a point of escalation for warehouse-related issues impacting exports or logistics timelines.

• Oversee the Export Services team with the Export Services Manger to ensure accurate and timely preparation of export documentation and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure adherence to international trade regulations, country-specific requirements, and customer specifications.
• Drive efficiency improvements in export workflows and turnaround times.
• Ensure strong coordination between Export Services, warehouse operations, freight providers, and clearing agents.

• Manage and oversee the Freight, Logistics, and Clearing & Forwarding (C&F) teams.
• Manage relationships with shipping lines ensuring the best possible rate for all routes.
• Monitor freight costs, service levels, and transit times, identifying opportunities for cost optimisation and improved reliability.
• Work with the shipping lines to onboard their systems onto My Gateway.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across warehouse, export services, logistics, and office operations.
• Develop, review, and implement SOPs to ensure consistent and efficient processes.
• Track and analyse operational KPIs and performance metrics, reporting insights and improvement actions to senior management.
• Support systems integration and digitalisation across operational functions.

• Lead operational projects such as warehouse or office renovations, infrastructure upgrades, and process improvement initiatives.
• Manage contractors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and with minimal disruption to operations.
• Manage office lease agreements ensuring that issues are dealt with swiftly by the landlords.

• Oversee the company travel desk, ensuring efficient booking and coordination of business travel - managing the function.
• Ensure adherence to travel policies and cost controls.
• Review travel expenditure and identify opportunities for savings and improved processes.

• Manage and support the Office Manager, ensuring effective day-to-day office operations.
• Oversee facilities management, supplier contracts, and administrative support functions.
• Maintain a professional, efficient, and well-organised office environment.
• Manage desk availability and oversee the placement of workstations for new hires in line with operational and space requirements.

• Provide leadership and direction to operational teams across Export Services, Logistics, and Office Management.
• Build strong working relationships with the Warehouse Manager and other department heads.
• Collaborate closely with Finance, Sales, Procurement, and Senior Management.
• Communicate operational performance, risks, and improvement initiatives clearly and effectively.

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred).
• Minimum of [5–8+] years’ experience in operations within an export, logistics, or distribution environment.
• Proven experience managing freight, logistics, and clearing & forwarding operations.
• Experience working across mixed warehouse environments (FMCG and bulky goods such as timber) is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of international trade, customs, and shipping processes.

• End-to-end operations and logistics leadership
• Strong stakeholder and vendor management skills
• Excellent planning, prioritisation, and problem-solving ability
• Commercial awareness with a focus on cost optimisation
• Strong project management capability
• Clear, confident communicator with leadership presence