Transport Planning & Optimization Specialist

SUMMARY:
Transport Planning & Optimization Specialist

POSITION INFO:

The Transport Planning & Optimization Specialist is responsible for designing, optimizing, and maintaining transport schedules, routing plans, and fleet utilization models across all Distribution Centres in South-Africa, Namibia, Zambia and expanding African operations serving all clients. This role ensures high‑frequency, time-bound, temperature‑controlled deliveries are executed at maximum efficiency and accuracy. The specialist supports TMS systems, ensures data integrity, drives route optimization, and provides analytical insights to improve delivery performance for all clients.

Key Responsibility Areas

KRA 1: Master Scheduling & Transport Planning (Delivery Cadence)

• Maintain high-frequency master schedules aligned to store trading hours and strict client delivery windows.
• Produce daily/weekly routing outputs using TMS optimization engines.
• Maintain forward-looking schedules reflecting volume forecasts, promotions, and seasonality.
• Manage schedule changes (store requests, holidays, closures, regional adjustments).
  Outputs: Master schedules, routing files, delivery summaries, planning change logs.

KRA 2: Fleet, Route & Space Optimization (Multi-Compartment Refrigerated Fleet)

• Optimize multi-drop and multi-temperature route structures.
• Maximize truck fill (cube/weight/compartment usage) and reduce empty running.
• Run sequencing changes, re-optimization, and route rebalancing.
• Evaluate cost-to-serve and route efficiency opportunities.
  Outputs: Optimized routing outputs, efficiency reports, recommended route changes.

KRA 3: TMS Data Integrity, Process Governance & SOPs

• Govern master data: delivery windows, store profiles, routing zones, cubes/weights.
• Ensure accurate configuration of constraints, sequencing rules, and optimization parameters.
• Draft and maintain SOPs and ways of working for TMS modules and planning processes.
• Work with IT/System Admin to resolve data or configuration defects.
  Outputs: Clean master data, SOP documentation, TMS enhancement requirements, audit-ready configurations.

KRA 4: Tracking, Visibility & Planned vs Actual Performance

• Support FleetVision, Ctrack, and other telematics tools.
• Validate temperature, geofence, route adherence, and timeline accuracy vs plan.
• Highlight deviations and collaborate with DCs to drive corrective actions.
• Provide exception reports for late deliveries, delays, route deviations, and non-compliance.
  Outputs: Planned vs Actual dashboards, tracking validation files, compliance reports.

KRA 5: Client Onboarding & Store Rollout Support

• Build routing designs and budget models for new clients / new store additions.
• Support store openings, relocations, and closure planning with updated delivery schedules.
• Map delivery frequency changes and expected volume impacts.
• Facilitate planning readiness for new client or store “go-live.”
  Outputs: Onboarding routing packs, store rollout schedules, budget models, go-live checklists.

KRA 6: Scenario Planning & Continuous Improvement

• Use optimization and modelling tools to evaluate route, cost, and service impacts.
• Conduct what-if modelling for promotions, volume shifts, menu changes, and growth plans.
• Identify transport efficiency opportunities and quantify benefits.
• Partner with DC Operations to improve loading, dispatch sequencing, and adherence.
  Outputs: Scenario models, benefit cases, efficiency improvement proposals.

KRA 7: Operational Accountability & Stakeholder Engagement

• Drive accountability with DC teams for plan adherence and operational discipline.
• Communicate schedule changes, updated routes, and planning insights proactively.
• Participate in WBR/MBR (Weekly/Monthly Business Review) forums.
• Act as the central point of contact for planning-related questions.
  Outputs: Performance packs, stakeholder updates, action plans, engagement logs.
  
  

Experience & Qualifications

• Diploma/Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, or related
• 2–6 years’ experience in transport planning, routing, or optimization
• Experience in QSR or FMCG distribution advantageous
• Strong exposure to TMS platforms and telematics/vehicle tracking
• Demonstrated ability to interpret operational constraints and build feasible plans