Distribution Manager

• We are looking for an experienced Distribution Manager for our baking business unit  based in Durban.
• The purpose of this role is to manage distribution operations, resources and stakeholder relationships through effective operational, financial, governance, safety and people management, to deliver efficient and compliant service, drive continuous improvement to optimise cost efficiency and achieve business performance and customer service objectives.

Minimum Requirements    

• Matric.
• Must have an NQF Level 6 Diploma or Advanced Certificates in Supply Chain or Logistics.
• An NQF Level 7 Advanced Diploma or a Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or Logistics is preferred.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years distribution experience together with management experience.

Duties & Responsibilities    
Distribution Strategy:

• Support & implement distribution strategies that optimise operational efficiency, reduce costs, leverage technology, and support business growth objectives.

Distribution Operations & Inventory Management:

• Manage the receipt, storage, movement, transfer, and control of products across distribution facilities to maintain product integrity, minimise losses, and achieve required customer service levels.

Loading & Dispatch Management:

• Oversee loading and off-loading activities to facilitate accurate, complete, and timely product dispatches, supported by appropriate resources and documentation.

Route Planning & Optimisation:

• Monitor and optimise internal & external (IDC) route performance to improve service delivery, maximise productivity, and achieve cost-effective distribution operations.

Enterprise Systems & Operational Controls:

• Utilise business systems effectively to maintain financial controls, operational visibility, and data accuracy.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Maintain effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to support business objectives and operational performance.

Operational Review, Debrief Processes & Performance Analysis:

• Manage operational review processes, analyse key performance metrics, identify improvement opportunities, and implement corrective actions to enhance service levels and operational efficiency.

Reconciliations & Controls:

• Oversee daily reconciliations, investigate variances, and implement corrective measures to maintain operational and financial integrity.

Fleet & Transport Management:

• Collaborate with Transport Manager and internal stakeholders to optimise fleet utilisation, service delivery, and cost efficiency.

Crate Management:

• Manage operational crates effectively to support service delivery, minimise losses, and optimise replacement and manage costs.

Team & Contractor Management:

• Lead and manage employees, contractors, and service providers to promote compliance with company standards, policies, legislation, and operational requirements.

Returns Management:

• Oversee product returns processes, including verification, classification, reconciliation, reporting, and trend analysis, to minimise losses and improve operational performance.

Continuous Improvement:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives through performance measurement, benchmarking, scorecard management, resource optimisation, and effective communication.

Safety, Health, Environment & Risk Management:

• Promote a safe, healthy, and environmentally responsible workplace through effective risk management, compliance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Food Safety & Quality Management:

• Support food safety and quality management systems through compliance monitoring, auditing, corrective actions, and continuous improvement activities.

Human Resource Management:

• Support workforce planning, talent management, performance management, employee development, employee relations, and disciplinary processes to support organisational objectives.

Project Management:

• Manage projects effectively through the application of project management principles, tools, and resource planning to achieve business objectives.

Financial, Commercial & Governance Management:

• Manage budgets, monitor expenditure, review financial performance, maintain governance standards, and implement corrective actions to support business sustainability and compliance.

Contract & Service Provider Management:

• Implement agreed supplier and service provider contracts to support service delivery, compliance with agreed performance standards, and achievement of cost and business objectives.

Deadline:15th November,2026