Operations Manager

Job Advert Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of Syntech Distribution's warehousing, inventory, and outbound/inbound distribution activities. The role ensures that stock is received, stored, picked, and dispatched accurately and on time, that fleet and courier operations run efficiently and cost-effectively, and that the warehouse operates safely, compliantly, and within budget. The Operations Manager leads the warehouse and logistics team, drives continuous improvement in operational processes, and works closely with Sales, Procurement, Technical, Assemblies and Finance to ensure operations support broader business objectives.

Working Conditions

• Based primarily on-site at the warehouse/distribution centre; some travel to other branches or client sites may be required.
• May be required to work outside standard hours during peak periods, month-end, or to resolve urgent operational issues.
• Warehouse environment involves exposure to typical warehouse conditions (noise, forklift traffic, varying temperatures).

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related field (essential).
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a warehouse, distribution, or logistics operations role, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Experience in a distribution, wholesale, or FMCG/technology distribution environment is advantageous.
• Working knowledge of warehouse management systems (WMS) and ERP platforms
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport
• Sound understanding of South African labour law (BCEA, LRA) and occupational health & safety legislation.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people-management skills, with the ability to manage and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent planning, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret operational data and act on it.
• Sound financial acumen, including budgeting and cost control.
• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal, across all levels of the business.
• Resilience and the ability to perform well under pressure and tight deadlines.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.

Duties and Responsibilities

Warehouse & Inventory Management

• Oversee all warehouse operations, including receiving, put-away, storage, picking, packing, and dispatch.
• Maintain stock accuracy through regular cycle counts, stock takes, and reconciliation against the ERP/inventory system.
• Manage stock control processes to minimise shrinkage, damage, and obsolescence.
• Optimise warehouse layout and storage utilisation to support throughput and growth.

Logistics & Distribution

• Plan and manage inbound and outbound deliveries, including route planning, fleet scheduling, and courier/3PL coordination.
• Monitor on-time-in-full (OTIF) delivery performance and resolve delivery exceptions promptly.
• Manage relationships with transport providers, couriers, and freight partners.
• Ensure vehicles and equipment (forklifts, pallet jacks, etc.) are maintained, licensed, and safely operated.

Team Leadership & People Management

• Lead, supervise, and develop warehouse, dispatch, and driver staff, including shift planning and performance management.
• Recruit, onboard, and train operations staff in line with company policy and budgeted headcount.
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement within the operations team.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure the warehouse complies with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and other relevant regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits, toolbox talks, and incident investigations; maintain SHE (Safety, Health, Environment) records.

Cost, Budget & Reporting

• Manage the operations budget, including labour, transport, consumables, and equipment maintenance costs.
• Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising service levels.
• Prepare and present regular operational reports (KPIs, stock accuracy, delivery performance, costs) to senior management.
• Support the implementation and ongoing use of order management (OMS) and ERP systems.