Warehouse Manager

SUMMARY:
Vineyard & Wine Producer based close to Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced Warehouse Manager to take ownership of finished goods inventory across on-site and off-site warehouse facilities.
 
This is a key operational role responsible for ensuring accurate stockholding, efficient warehouse operations, and the seamless execution of local and export customer orders.
 
Reporting into the operations structure, you will oversee the receipt, storage, handling, picking, loading, and dispatch of finished products including orders loaded directly from third-party bottling facilities.
 
You'll be the driving force behind safe, efficient, and compliant warehouse operations that meet international best-practice standards.
 
We need a hands-on leader with strong commercial judgement, sound operational expertise, and the ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders in a fast-paced wine production and distribution environment. You'll bring proven experience in warehouse or inventory management, ideally within FMCG, beverages, or a similar high-volume distribution setting, along with a track record of managing teams, budgets, and supplier relationships.

POSITION INFO:
Duties: Develop and manage the annual Warehouse Plan and operating budget, including cost optimisation and resource planning Oversee finished goods stock management, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and security across all facilities Manage timely, accurate execution of local and export sales orders, coordinating closely with Sales, Logistics, Planning, Production, and Finance Drive continuous improvement in warehouse processes, space utilisation, and operational controls Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, bottling partners, logistics providers, and internal stakeholders Develop, implement, and improve warehouse policies and procedures in line with legislation, health and safety, and quality standards Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing warehouse team, including performance management and training Requirements: Relevant tertiary qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Warehousing, Operations Management or Business Administration. At least 8 - 10 years' experience in warehousing, distribution or logistics operations, with at least 5 years in a management or senior supervisory position. Forklift operator's license is often required and will be advantageous Proven experience in managing finished goods inventory in a high volume, multi-site environment (onsite and off-site facilities) Experience in wine, beverage or broader FMCG industry is highly advantageous given the product handling, stock rotation and export compliance requirements specific to this sector. Demonstrated experience managing local and export order fulfilment, including documentation, custom compliance and coordination with logistics \/ freight partners \/ transporters Proven track record of managing budgets and operating cost Experience in leading and developing teams Experience in engaging with third party service providers (bottling partners, logistics, freight companies) at a contractual and operational level. Sound knowledge and understanding of warehouse best practices, inventory control and stock management systems Strong budgeting, cost control and financial acumen. Strong leadership, people management, and conflict resolution skills