Job Description

Our client is looking for an experienced Distribution Manager to join a fast-paced FMCG environment in Bellville, Cape Town. This role calls for a strong leader with 10+ years in distribution, 5+ years in management, and a qualification in Logistics or Supply Chain. You'll oversee warehouse operations, fleet planning, inventory control, and staff performance while driving efficiency and compliance. Working hours are 06:00-16:00 weekdays, with weekend duty once every five weeks.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Staff Management

• Recruitment

• Recruit sufficient and competent staff in a cost-effective manner.
• Ensure proper induction training of new employees.
• Confirm that all employees have correct employment contracts.

• Training

• Staff must be adequately trained to perform tasks effectively.
• Conduct regular refresher training sessions.

• Leave

• Manage workers' leave plans to ensure operational continuity.

• Staff Communication

• Communicate company matters regularly with staff.
• Share departmental and functional aspects, including goals.

• Discipline

• Maintain sound discipline within the department.
• Apply disciplinary procedures when necessary.

• Performance Management

• Ensure employees understand how tasks must be completed.
• Monitor performance consistently.
• Recognize and reward good performance.
• Take corrective action for underperformance.

• Performance Appraisals

• Conduct thorough performance appraisals.
• Complete appraisals within the required schedule.

• s

• Revise and update job descriptions regularly to ensure relevance.

Goal Management

• Departmental Goals

• Set departmental goals aligned with company objectives.
• Encourage innovative and creative goal-setting.
• Ensure goals are meaningful and high quality.
• Assist with company-wide goal setting.

• Goal Achievement

• Continuously monitor progress on goals.
• Ensure successful achievement of targets.

Reporting

• Daily Reporting

• Reports must be high quality, complete, and on time.

• Monthly Reporting

• Reports must be high quality, complete, and on time.

• General Management

• Weekend duty management (rotational schedule).
• Stand in for the General Manager when required.
• Play an active role in problem-solving and technical issue resolution.

• Warehouse Management

• Ensure neat and organized storage of products (FIFO rotation).
• Maintain housekeeping standards in line with food safety requirements.
• Apply pest control regulations and maintain storage buildings.
• Keep distribution offices orderly and clean.
• Monitor security and prevent theft.

• Inventory Management

• Manage minimum stock levels and communicate with Production.
• Conduct regular stock surveys to identify theft.
• Establish stock levels based on customer demand.
• Administer monthly stock control.
• Monitor suspicious activities and missing stock.
• Ensure invoices and inventory systems are accurate and up to date.

• Transportation

• Plan daily deliveries to minimize cost and meet client specifications.
• Supervise vehicle loading to prevent theft and damage.
• Ensure timely deliveries and excellent customer service.
• Monitor drivers' efficiency and professionalism.
• Maintain delivery documentation and filing systems.
• Ensure sufficient licensed drivers are available.
• Manage external transporters when required.

• Fleet Management

• Ensure regular vehicle servicing and daily inspections.
• Organize recovery and insurance processes for accidents.
• Maintain valid licenses and roadworthiness certificates.
• Investigate traffic violations and manage fines.
• Procure and resell vehicles as needed.
• Maintain vehicle history documentation.
• Manage fuel usage and prevent theft.
• Ensure pallet trolleys, jacks, and forklifts are serviced and maintained.

• Occupational Health & Safety

• Ensure only licensed drivers operate vehicles.
• Enforce safe loading and speed limits on premises.
• Conduct monthly fire inspections and train staff on emergency procedures.
• Provide training for pallet trolleys, stackers, and forklifts.
• Ensure safe stacking and equipment use.

• Food Safety

• Apply company food safety systems and policies.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in storage areas.
• Ensure staff follow hygiene standards and wear protective clothing.
• Monitor pest control and contamination risks.
• Oversee food safety in warehouses and dispatch areas.

• Procurement

• Source and interview suppliers; negotiate agreements.
• Ensure lowest cost without compromising quality.
• Purchase supplies to meet operational requirements.
• Receive and document orders.
• Apply the 5 R's: Right quality, quantity, place, time, and price.

• Personnel Behavior Needs

• Good quality of work
• Responsibility and loyalty
• Initiative and creativity
• Speed and volume of performance
• Punctuality and timeliness

• Leadership

• Manage staff to create win-win outcomes for employees and company.
• Communicate effectively and provide thorough feedback to management.
• Assign and manage tasks to ensure completion.
• Plan proactively, take initiative, and create systems.
• Train and cross-train staff to perform tasks well.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Logistics/Supply Chain
• 5 years in a managerial role - leading teams, driving performance, and achieving operational goals
• 10 years' experience in FMCG distribution - with a deep understanding of fast-paced, high-volume environments
• Code 10 driver's license and forklift certification
• Warehouse Management - Proven ability to oversee storage, housekeeping, and compliance with food safety standards
• Fleet Management - Skilled in maintaining vehicles, managing drivers, and ensuring roadworthiness and compliance
• Warehouse Management Systems (Stock Control) - Confident in using systems to track, monitor, and optimize inventory
• Fleet Planning - Experienced in route planning, load optimization, and cost-effective scheduling
• Computer Literacy - Strong proficiency in digital tools and reporting systems
• Problem-Solving - Hands-on approach to resolving operational challenges quickly and effectively

Skills Required