Distribution Centre Operations Manager - Botswana

Role Overview

We seek a seasoned Operations Manager to direct and optimize the daily functions of our Distribution Centre. The role demands coordination of Receiving, Warehouse, Production, Inventory, Logistics, and Dispatch operations, ensuring productivity, accuracy, food safety, and regulatory compliance are upheld.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations across Receiving, Warehouse, Production Support, Inventory, Logistics, and Dispatch sections to guarantee smooth workflow.
• Design and execute operational strategies that correspond to business goals, client demand, and service standards.
• Track performance metrics, productivity, service quality, and expenses, aiming to meet or surpass operational targets and KPIs.
• Supervise inventory protocols including stock verification, receiving, storage, rotation, cycle counts, and handling discrepancies.
• Initiate measures to reduce stock losses, damages, expirations, and inventory inaccuracies.
• Coordinate inbound/outbound logistics to maintain fluid product movement within the Distribution Centre.
• Identify and debug operational bottlenecks or inefficiencies impacting capacity and workflow.
• Ensure adherence to food safety, quality standards, HACCP, Health & Safety, corporate policies, and legal regulations.
• Lead and develop middle management and operational teams through workforce planning, recruitment, mentoring, performance reviews, and succession preparation.
• Cultivate an organizational culture emphasizing responsibility, teamwork, safety, and ongoing enhancement.
• Evaluate operational data to spot improvement opportunities and implement measures to boost productivity, quality, and cost-efficiency.
• Control departmental budgets and monitor operational spends to optimize resource allocation.
• Champion Lean and continuous improvement practices throughout Distribution Centre operations.
• Support warehouse management system use and enhancement, including inventory tracking, digital reporting, dashboards, and automation.
• Compile and deliver performance reports and insights to senior leadership.
• Foster effective coordination among Receiving, Warehouse, Production, Inventory, and Logistics departments.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• Certification in Lean Manufacturing or Lean Six Sigma is a plus.
• APICS certifications like CPIM or CSCP would be advantageous.
• HACCP or Food Safety certification is preferred.
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) certification is beneficial.
• Additional qualifications in Health & Safety or Project Management are favorable.
• At least 5 years managing Distribution Centre, Warehouse, or Operations environments.
• Minimum 3 years management experience in FMCG, food production, or logistics sectors.
• Established history of leading multifunctional teams effectively.
• Demonstrated expertise in operations management including inventory control, cost oversight, and workforce leadership.
• Proven success in driving productivity improvement and continuous operational enhancements.
• Experience ensuring compliance with food safety, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Comfort working in dynamic, high-output Distribution Centres including ambient, chilled, and frozen sections.
• Flexibility to work variable shifts including weekends and public holidays as operations demand.
• Ability to be mobile and operate within environments requiring personal protective equipment (PPE).