About the position
Role Overview
The manager is responsible for the strategic leadership, high-level management, and overall accountability of logistics operations in the region. This role oversees multiple logistics teams and functions, ensuring that company strategy and client requirements are effectively implemented.
The role requires strong executive-level engagement with client departments, proactive identification of operational gaps, and the ability to implement sustainable solutions before issues escalate. The Head of Logistics provides direction, support, and accountability to Logistics Specialists and Team Leaders, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and service delivery excellence.
This role is accountable for aligning regional operations with company objectives, managing client relationships at a senior level, and fostering a culture of ownership, proactivity, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Oversight
- Lead the overall logistics function for the Johannesburg region, ensuring alignment with company strategy and operational standards.
- Oversee daily trip planning, grouping, and assignments at a high level, ensuring performance targets and KPIs are achieved.
- Monitor regional performance, identify trends, and proactively implement improvements before issues escalate.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting, quality control, and compliance with company requirements.
- Manage structured and effective communication across all shifts and teams, ensuring seamless handovers and accountability.
- Partner with senior management and client departments to ensure expectations are consistently met and exceeded.
Team Leadership & Communication
- Provide leadership to all Johannesburg logistics teams, setting clear expectations, accountability, and high-performance standards.
- Coach and mentor team leaders and specialists to ensure role clarity and professional growth.
- Ensure communication response standards are upheld and operational escalations are resolved effectively.
- Conduct performance reviews, drive professional development, and maintain workforce planning in line with company needs.
Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Engage with client leadership and internal departments to maintain strong operational partnerships.
- Lead interdepartmental meetings, ensuring accountability for action items.
- Provide operational insights to support business development, client retention, and service excellence.
Continuous Improvement
- Proactively review all operational areas, identify potential risks or inefficiencies, and close gaps before they impact service.
- Drive innovation and efficiency in scheduling, driver allocation, and client servicing.
- Ensure the Johannesburg team sets the benchmark for operational discipline, reporting accuracy, and professionalism.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong senior leadership and people management capabilities.
- High-level client engagement and relationship management skills.
- Strategic and operational oversight with the ability to manage multiple teams.
- Proactive problem-solving: identifies gaps and implements solutions before escalation.
- Excellent communication (written and verbal) with the ability to influence at senior levels.
- Strong decision-making skills under pressure with accountability for outcomes.
Advanced organisational, reporting, and data analysis skills (Excel proficiency required). - Ability to embed company strategy into daily operations and ensure effective execution.
- Collaborative leadership style that fosters cross-departmental teamwork and accountability.
Desired Skills:
- People Management
- executive engagement
- Excel
- Leadership/Management Skills
- Mentoring
- Data Analysis
Desired Qualification Level:
