Johannesburg, South Africa

Senior Director: Logistics Operation

 Job Description:

The Senior Director of Logistics Operations at our client is responsible for setting the strategic direction and overseeing the growth of the company's logistics operations, including Inbound, Intra, Outbound logistics, and Warehousing. Reporting directly to the Managing Director 4PL TMS and Control Towers, this role involves crafting and executing strategies to drive operational excellence, business development, and financial performance while delivering superior customer service and innovative logistics solutions.

Key Performance Areas:

  • Strategic Leadership:

    • Define and communicate a clear vision and strategic objectives for the logistics division in alignment with the clients overarching goals.
    • Develop and implement strategic plans and business expansion initiatives to foster growth and enhance profitability.
    • Design and assess logistics solutions by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to achieve cost-effective and reliable outcomes that meet project goals and regulatory standards.
  • Business Development and Growth:

    • Identify market opportunities, trends, and emerging technologies to expand and diversify the logistics portfolio.
    • Build and maintain strategic partnerships, alliances, and collaborations to enhance service offerings, enter new markets, and increase market share.
    • Lead business development efforts to drive the expansion and diversification of logistics services.
  • Operational Excellence:

    • Oversee the performance of logistics operations, ensuring efficient, reliable, and high-quality services for pick-up, delivery, and warehousing.
    • Implement best practices, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality control measures to optimize efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize customer satisfaction.
    • Direct the entire order cycle, ensuring compliance with quality, quantity, stock levels, delivery times, transport costs, and operational efficiency.
  • Financial Management:

    • Develop and manage the financial strategy and budget for the logistics unit, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
    • Monitor financial performance, analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), and implement cost optimization initiatives to drive profitability and sustainable growth.
    • Maintain performance metrics and analyze data to assess and improve logistics operations.
  • Leadership and Talent Management:

    • Provide visionary leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the logistics team, promoting a culture of excellence, innovation, and accountability.
    • Recruit, develop, and retain top talent, ensuring the team has the skills and resources necessary for success.
    • Embrace new technologies, digitalization, and innovation to continuously enhance logistics operations.
  • Customer Experience and Satisfaction:

    • Advocate for a customer-centric approach, establishing high service standards and initiatives to improve customer experience and satisfaction.
    • Monitor customer feedback and address issues or complaints promptly to ensure service excellence.
  • Technology and Innovation:

    • Stay updated on technological advancements and industry trends in logistics and transportation.
    • Evaluate and implement innovative technologies, automation solutions, and digital platforms to enhance operations and streamline processes.
  • Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management:

    • Cultivate and manage relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and partners.
    • Represent ArcelorMittal at industry events, conferences, and forums to promote services and forge strategic alliances.
    • Liaise with suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers to manage logistics effectively.
  • Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

    • Develop and track performance metrics, KPIs, and benchmarks to measure progress and success.
    • Prepare regular reports, dashboards, and presentations for senior management, offering insights, analysis, and recommendations for decision-making.
    • Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and ISO standards.
  • Project and Infrastructure Management:

    • Plan, monitor progress, and implement corrective actions to keep logistics projects on track.
    • Oversee the construction and development of logistics infrastructure, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations.
    • Address social concerns and foster positive relations with local communities and stakeholders.

Nature of Position:

  • Permanent role
  • Availability for extended hours during peak projects and seasons

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree in Business, Logistics, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field.
  • Up to 10 years of experience in a similar role, with at least 8 years in operational leadership or specialist positions.
  • Professional certification such as APICS is advantageous.

Behavioural Competencies:

  • Decision-making and initiative
  • Leadership and management, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Coaching and facilitation
  • Adherence to principles and values
  • Networking and relationship building
  • Negotiation and influencing
  • Effective communication and presentation
  • Analytical reasoning and problem-solving
  • Innovation and strategic thinking
  • Formulating strategies and achieving personal work goals

Technical Competencies:

  • Proven experience in strategy development, implementation, and delivery
  • Strong understanding of inbound and outbound logistics across multiple transport modes (sea, rail, road) and warehousing
  • Track record of driving business growth, profitability, and operational excellence
  • Thorough knowledge of regulatory requirements, compliance standards, and industry best practices
  • Proficient in financial management, budgeting, and financial analysis
  • Strategic vision to anticipate market trends and develop plans to capitalize on opportunities
  • Adaptability and resilience in navigating a dynamic business environment
  • Experience in implementing operational processes and best practices
  • Expertise in labour relations, budgeting, cost management, and logistics management
  Required Skills:

Cost Management Stakeholder Engagement Logistics Management Indicators Financial Performance Strategic Partnerships Strategic Thinking Performance Metrics Road Operational Excellence Facilitation Relationship Building Talent Management Market Share Regulatory Requirements Key Performance Indicators Operations Management Customer Experience Operational Efficiency Accountability Partnerships Corrective Actions Decision-Making Financial Analysis Supply Conferences Metrics Transportation Quality Control Optimization Coaching Infrastructure Availability Networking Automation Budgeting Business Development Customer Satisfaction Strategy Negotiation Presentations Construction Regulations Suppliers Teamwork Customer Service Design Leadership Business Communication Management