Supply Chain & Operations Manager

About Yara International and the Role

Yara International is a global organization dedicated to addressing crucial challenges such as resource scarcity, food security, and environmental changes through responsible and profitable solutions. Yara Fertilizer Zambia Limited is seeking a permanent Supply Chain & Operations Manager based in Lusaka, Zambia. This key leadership position is responsible for overseeing operational business support services, including stock availability, transportation, and dispatch to ensure efficient and cost-effective delivery of products.

Key Areas of Responsibility

The role encompasses managing supply chain operations across Zambia, with reporting lines to the Operations Director – Africa and General Manager – Zambia Cluster. The manager will lead strategic initiatives to optimize stock availability, enhance logistics, and improve operational efficiency while maintaining compliance with health, environment, safety, and quality (HESQ) standards.

Supply Chain Management

• Contribute to product supply management from source to distribution.
• Assist in developing and enforcing transportation policies and procedures.
• Coordinate interdepartmental collaboration within the Zambia Cluster to align operational and supply chain priorities.
• Oversee consolidation and maintenance of sales forecasting, procurement planning, product scheduling, and inventory management models as per Africa unit guidelines and budgets.
• Support optimal utilization of supply corridors via South Africa, Mozambique, and Tanzania tailored to product requirements.

Operations Management

• Ensure efficient coordination across departmental operations.
• Manage and optimize SAP-based operational processes, including accuracy and timely ERP transactions and performance analysis for improvements.
• Oversee local production requirements for blending and bagging as necessary.
• Manage compliance and operations of third-party service providers per company policies.
• Implement and maintain robust asset care and maintenance programs.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives within operations.

Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Management

• Develop and enforce transportation policies and procedures.
• Negotiate and manage in-country transportation contracts and rates with carriers, ensuring regulatory and industry compliance.
• Coordinate interdepartmental shipment requirements and oversee movement of goods from facilities to recipients.
• Ensure timely delivery and manage resolution of any transportation issues.

Warehouse, Inventory Management, and Stock Control

• Supervise facility management within Zambia.
• Collaborate with sales and production teams for demand forecasting and inventory management.
• Monitor inventory levels and stock transfers to balance supply and reduce excess.
• Implement controls to minimize inventory losses and enhance accuracy.
• Ensure adherence to stock-taking procedures and maintain inventory integrity.

Reporting

• Track, measure, and provide precise operational department reports.

People Management

• Create and maintain a safe, inclusive, and engaging work environment.
• Develop, lead, and enhance staff capabilities within the operations department.
• Set clear targets and oversee achievement of objectives for the supply chain and operations teams.

HESQ Compliance and Quality Control

• Ensure full compliance with applicable local and international laws and standards.
• Implement and monitor quality control measures to uphold high standards.
• Coordinate audits and engagement with regulatory authorities.
• Lead full deployment of HESQ initiatives according to company policies.

Functional Knowledge and Competencies

• Expertise in planning, operations, supply chain, and logistics.
• Strong grasp of stock management and control processes.
• Understanding of finance processes and reporting schedules.
• Knowledgeable in company-specific TOPS and HESQ protocols.
• Advanced computer skills, especially Excel, and proficient ERP and SAP system navigation.
• Strong organizational and administrative capabilities.

Business and Leadership Skills

• Capability in managing and auditing operations and supply chain functions.
• Responsibility for departmental line management and oversight of service providers and subcontractors.
• Problem-solving aptitude for supply chain challenges within Zambia, including data-based corrective actions.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, procurement, operations, engineering, or business fields.
• More than five years’ experience in supply chain or logistics.
• At least three years in a managerial position.
• Experience with cross-border supply chains, distribution, and customs clearance.
• Proficiency in demand forecasting, planning, warehousing operations, inventory management, and controls.
• Experience negotiating transport and supplier contracts or tenders.
• Knowledge of health and safety management practices.
• Membership with Zambia Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (ZCILT) is preferred.

Additional Information

Applications must be submitted by 18 September 2026. Candidates must complete online application questions and fulfill minimum qualifications to be considered. Applicants not contacted by 31 October 2026 are thanked for their interest but will not be further considered.

Yara values diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer, promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace as part of its core business strategy with over 400 employees engaged in DE&I initiatives worldwide.

Background and reference checks may be conducted when necessary, with candidates being informed prior to any such checks. The working location for this role is Lusaka, Zambia.