Job Description    

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Distribution Manager to lead our distribution teams at both our bakery and depots. Your primary goal will be to ensure efficient distribution processes to meet customer service levels and sales targets while adhering to safety, health, and food safety standards. Collaborating closely with various departments, you will drive continuous improvement and effective communication throughout the distribution network.

Minimum Requirements    

Education and Qualification:

• Matric
• Diploma/Degree in Logistics/Supply Chain Management preferred.

Knowledge and Skill:

• Strong organizational and analytical skills
• Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities
• Minimum 5 years distribution experience in the bread baking industry, with managerial experience
• Continuous improvement and safety experience in manufacturing/distribution
• Exposure to unionized environments

Problem Solving:

• Making operational decisions within responsibility
• Driving business agenda and maintaining effective relationships
• Addressing uncomfortable realities and acting on insights

Customer Relationships:

• Internal: Sales, Finance, Production, HR, Transport, Health & Safety, Food Safety
• External: Suppliers, Government Agencies

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Distribution Strategy: Collaborate with Bakery Manager to develop and implement innovative distribution strategies.
• Product Management: Oversee receiving, storage, transfer, and management of products to maintain integrity and maximize customer service.
• Loading and Off-loading: Ensure timely loading of trucks and maintain accurate records of goods received and dispatched.
• Route Planning: Conduct regular reviews to optimize route efficiency and minimize costs.
• Enterprise System Utilization: Make effective use of Syspro environment for financial controls.
• Communication: Maintain effective communication with cross-functional teams.
• Debrief Processes: Lead daily debrief processes to review sales, service levels, and operational metrics.
• Reconciliations: Ensure daily completion of despatch recon documents and investigate any discrepancies.
• Fleet Management: Collaborate with Transport Manager to optimize fleet service levels.
• Crate Management: Manage bread crates to minimize replacements and ensure cost-effective service levels.
• Driver and Outsourced Distributor Management: Oversee driver performance and adherence to company policies.
• Returns Management: Manage product returns process to minimize losses and ensure accurate reconciliation.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive performance metrics and implement improvement initiatives.
• Safety, Health, and Environment: Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Food Safety and Quality Management Support: Support food safety and quality management systems.
• Human Resource Management: Lead HR functions including recruitment, performance management, and training.
• Product Innovation Support: Support demand team in new product development.
• Project Management: Utilize resources effectively to deliver distribution strategy.
• Financial/Commercial Management: Maintain budgeting and cost control processes.
• Contract Management: Manage contracts and service level agreements effectively