Logistics-Warehouse Manager

Synopsis

A leading retail clothing company is seeking an experienced, decisive and results-driven Logistics & Warehouse Manager to oversee the operations of its distribution centre in East London.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end management of warehouse and logistics operations, including receiving, processing, picking, packing, dispatching and delivering stock to stores. The role will also oversee stock control, staff management, fleet and transport operations, procurement and warehouse-related cost management.

This opportunity is ideal for an experienced warehouse and logistics professional with strong leadership capabilities and a proven track record of managing large teams. The successful candidate will play a key role in improving productivity, operational stability, accountability and efficiency across the distribution centre, which has a staff complement of approximately 120 employees.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations and administration of the distribution warehouse.
• Manage the receiving, processing, picking, packing, dispatching and delivery of stock to stores.
• Ensure efficient stock flow through the warehouse without compromising accuracy.
• Liaise closely with Buying, Finance and Operations to maximise the flow of stock through the warehouse.
• Ensure receiving, picking, packing, shipping and dispatch deadlines and cut-off times are consistently met.
• Manage, record and minimise IBTs and stock discrepancies between stores and the warehouse.
• Manage warehouse returns and claims effectively.
• Identify and minimise operational and stock-related risk areas.
• Implement effective controls to reduce stock losses and ensure accountability across relevant departments.
• Manage and lead a warehouse workforce of approximately 120 employees.
• Assess workloads across departments and allocate staff to areas requiring additional support.
• Ensure staff planning, scheduling and rostering are conducted in the most cost-effective and productive manner.
• Ensure staffing levels are aligned with approved salary and wage budgets.
• Drive employee productivity, accountability and operational performance.
• Assist employees and managers in resolving work-process challenges.
• Identify training requirements and support the implementation of training initiatives.
• Handle sensitive business and personnel matters with professionalism, discretion and confidentiality.
• Maintain positive employee relations and workplace harmony.
• Address grievances and disciplinary matters appropriately, involving HR where necessary.
• Ensure company policies, procedures and disciplinary processes are consistently followed.
• Ensure departmental managers effectively control expenses within their respective areas.
• Monitor salary and wage expenditure against approved budgets.
• Control warehouse packing, wrapping and consumable costs.
• Manage third-party transport providers and ensure transport costs remain within budget.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and minimise waste, loss and unnecessary expenditure throughout the warehouse.
• Assist warehouse managers in identifying and improving work procedures to optimise workflow.
• Coordinate administrative activities to ensure accurate results throughout the warehouse.
• Prioritise workflow according to operational requirements and business deadlines.
• Communicate priorities effectively to department managers, supervisors and warehouse staff.
• Provide clear written and verbal instructions and ensure appropriate follow-up.
• Monitor work for accuracy, neatness and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Review and standardise procedures to improve warehouse efficiency and productivity.
• Oversee the company fleet and ensure vehicles are roadworthy, licensed and compliant.
• Ensure all vehicles are serviced and maintained regularly and on time.
• Manage and negotiate with external transport and courier service providers.
• Ensure delivery routes are planned efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Monitor delivery performance and ensure drivers and stores adhere to established delivery and receiving processes.
• Identify and minimise risks associated with transporting stock to stores.
• Manage the procurement of sale tags, swing tags, promotional stickers, stationery, cleaning materials and plastic bags for stores.
• Coordinate the procurement and distribution of equipment required for new stores, including televisions, kettles, baskets, first-aid boxes, trolleys and wheely bins.
• Manage the ordering, control and distribution of hangers to stores.
• Coordinate the procurement and distribution of company uniforms.
• Maintain effective controls and records relating to procurement and distribution activities.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement across warehouse, logistics and procurement operations.
• Form part of the EXCO team and report directly to the CEO.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as required in line with business needs.
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Qualifications / Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification.
• Diploma or Certificate in Logistics, Warehousing, Supply Chain Management or a related field is advantageous.
• Minimum 5–10 years' experience in a similar Logistics, Warehouse or Distribution Management role.
• Proven experience managing large warehouse teams and operational environments.
• Experience managing a workforce of approximately 100+ employees is advantageous.
• Clothing retail or fashion retail experience will be advantageous.
• Experience in distribution centre operations, stock management and logistics.
• Experience managing third-party transporters and courier service providers.
• Experience with fleet management and vehicle maintenance processes.
• Experience managing warehouse budgets, costs and operational expenses.
• Valid Code 8 / B driver's licence, unendorsed.
• Computer literate, with proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong understanding of warehouse processes, stock control and distribution operations.
• Experience managing employee performance, disciplinary matters and workplace grievances.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced warehouse and distribution environment.

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management
• Warehouse and distribution management
• Logistics and fleet management
• Stock control and accuracy
• Operational planning and coordination
• Staff scheduling and productivity management
• Cost control and budget management
• Procurement and supplier management
• Process improvement
• Quality and efficiency management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Strong communication skills
• Planning and organising
• Time management
• Attention to detail
• Accountability and ownership
• Commercial awareness
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Ability to work under pressure
• Initiative and adaptability
• Conflict management
• Employee relations
• Strong organisational skills
• Results-driven approach