Job Description
Our client, a leading South African healthcare company specialising in the supply and distribution of medical devices, diagnostic equipment, surgical products and healthcare solutions, has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join our team at our Head Office in Cornubia, Durban
With a national footprint, we pride ourselves on operational excellence, exceptional customer service and maintaining the highest standards of quality throughout our supply chain.
This is a senior operational leadership role responsible for overseeing warehouse operations, logistics, inventory management, fleet operations and distribution while ensuring the efficient delivery of products to customers nationwide.
Overview of the Role
The Operations Manager will be responsible for leading the daily operations of the warehouse and distribution functions, ensuring operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, customer satisfaction and compliance with all company policies and regulatory requirements.
The successful candidate will manage operational staff, coordinate local and international logistics, oversee fleet operations and work closely with Sales, Finance, Procurement and Customer Service to ensure seamless business operations.
Key Responsibilities
Warehouse Operations
Manage all warehouse operations and daily workflow.
Oversee receiving, storage, picking, packing and dispatch functions.
Ensure accurate inventory management and stock integrity.
Coordinate warehouse layout and optimise storage capacity.
Ensure compliance with all Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) requirements.
Manage warehouse housekeeping and operational standards.
Inventory Management
Overall responsibility for inventory control.
Monitor stock movements and inventory accuracy.
Perform and review weekly cycle counts.
Investigate stock variances and implement corrective actions.
Manage stock replenishment processes.
Follow through on supplier stock returns and credit processes.
Distribution & Logistics
Coordinate daily dispatch and distribution activities.
Manage collections and deliveries nationally.
Coordinate courier services and third-party logistics providers.
Ensure customer deliveries are completed accurately and on time.
Monitor delivery turnaround times and service levels.
Fleet Management
Manage company fleet performance and maintenance.
Coordinate vehicle servicing and repairs.
Conduct daily vehicle tracking.
Analyse daily driver routes and optimise delivery efficiency.
Schedule daily delivery routes.
Monitor fuel usage and vehicle utilisation.
Operational Administration
Manage operational staff attendance registers.
Approve and monitor overtime.
Assist with recruitment and onboarding of temporary warehouse staff.
Prepare operational reports and KPI dashboards.
Conduct POD (Proof of Delivery) audits.
Ensure invoices and delivery notes are scanned and uploaded to company systems.
Maintain accurate warehouse documentation and records.
Team Leadership
Lead, motivate and develop warehouse and operational staff.
Conduct performance reviews.
Coach and mentor team members.
Facilitate operational meetings.
Ensure effective communication across departments.
Client & Stakeholder Management
Facilitate meetings with clients where operational support is required.
Build strong relationships with customers and suppliers.
Resolve operational issues promptly.
Ensure service excellence is maintained.
Minimum Requirements
Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management (Essential).
Minimum 5-8 years' experience in Supply Chain, Warehouse or Operations Management.
Minimum 3 years' experience managing a warehouse operation.
Experience within the medical, pharmaceutical or healthcare industry will be highly advantageous.
Strong knowledge of inventory control and warehouse management.
Experience managing distribution and logistics operations.
Experience coordinating international imports and exports.
Knowledge of sea freight processes.
Experience managing fleet operations.
Strong understanding of inventory management systems.
Advanced Microsoft Office proficiency, particularly Excel.
Experience working with ERP/Warehouse Management Systems.
Valid driver's licence with own vehicle.
Skills and Competencies
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Strong planning and organisational ability.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to prioritise multiple operational activities.
Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
High attention to detail.
Excellent customer service orientation.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Financial and commercial awareness.
Results-driven with strong decision-making ability.
High level of integrity and accountability.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The successful candidate will be measured on:
Inventory accuracy
Warehouse productivity
On-time deliveries
Order fulfilment accuracy
Fleet utilisation
Import and export turnaround times
Customer service levels
Warehouse compliance
Stock loss reduction
Operational cost efficiencies
Team performance and development
Remuneration
Market-related, commensurate with qualifications, skills and experience.