View all jobs Supply Chain Manager Johannesburg, Gauteng · Retail Apply Now Job Purpose:
The Supply Chain Manager is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end supply chain, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and seamless operations from procurement to distribution. This role involves strategic planning, logistics optimization, and team leadership to enhance supply chain performance and meet organizational goals.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Supply Chain Strategy & Planning
Develop and implement strategic supply chain initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Align supply chain operations with business objectives and market demands.
Forecast demand and optimize inventory levels to prevent stockouts or overstocking.
2. Logistics & Distribution Management
Oversee transportation, warehousing, and distribution networks to ensure timely deliveries.
Optimize route planning, freight costs, and carrier performance .
Implement warehouse automation (e.g., WMS, robotics) for improved efficiency.
3. Procurement & Supplier Relationship Management
Collaborate with procurement teams to source materials at competitive prices .
Manage supplier contracts and evaluate vendor performance .
Mitigate supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical disruptions, supplier delays).
4. Inventory & Demand Planning
Implement inventory control strategies to minimize waste and obsolescence.
Use data analytics and ERP systems to forecast demand accurately.
Ensure optimal stock levels to meet customer demand without excess holding costs.
5. Compliance & Sustainability
Ensure compliance with local and international trade regulations (e.g., customs, Incoterms).
Drive sustainable supply chain practices (e.g., carbon footprint reduction, circular logistics).
Maintain audit-ready documentation for regulatory and internal reviews.
6. Team Leadership & Cross-functional Collaboration
Lead and mentor supply chain teams (procurement, logistics, warehouse staff).
Work closely with finance, sales, and production teams to align supply chain with business needs.
Resolve bottlenecks and improve interdepartmental coordination .
Required Skills & Competencies:
Technical Skills
✔ End-to-End Supply Chain Management – Expertise in procurement, logistics, warehousing, and distribution.
✔ ERP & Supply Chain Software – Proficiency in SAP, Oracle, Kinaxis, or similar tools .
✔ Data Analytics & Forecasting – Ability to interpret supply chain KPIs and demand trends.
✔ Logistics Optimization – Knowledge of transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS) .
✔ Risk Management – Identifying and mitigating supply chain disruptions.
Soft Skills
✔ Leadership & Team Management – Ability to lead cross-functional teams.
✔ Strategic Thinking – Long-term planning and problem-solving.
✔ Negotiation & Vendor Management – Strong supplier and contract negotiation skills.
✔ Communication & Stakeholder Engagement – Effective collaboration with internal and external partners.
✔ Adaptability – Responding to market changes and disruptions.
Qualifications & Experience:
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or Engineering .
Master’s Degree (Preferred) – MBA or MSc in Supply Chain/Operations Management.
Certifications (Highly Valued):
CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional) – APICS
SCMP (Supply Chain Management Professional)
CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management)
Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt) – For process optimization
Experience:
Minimum 5-7 years in supply chain management, logistics, or operations .
Proven track record in cost reduction, process improvement, and supply chain digitization .
Industry experience in retail, manufacturing, mining, or FMCG is advantageous.