Head of Operations

Head of Operations

The Head of Operations is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain operations, including purchasing, logistics, warehousing, inventory management, quality management, health, safety and environment (HSE) and IT teams. The Head of Operations will ensure that the company’s supply chain and distribution processes are efficient, cost effective, compliant with quality regulatory standards and align with strategic objectives.

CORE DUTIES:

• Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and implement operational strategies across all divisions.
• Create and lead the execution of operational plans that align with commercial and financial goals, ensuring the needs of each division are consistently met.
• Developing and implementing strategies, procedures and business plans needed to enhance company growth
• Collaborate with senior leadership to translate strategy into actionable steps for growth, implementing organization-wide goal setting, performance management and annual operations planning.
• Collaborate with suppliers, purchasing, warehousing and finance teams to ensure cost-effective operations and efficient supply chain management.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with buyers, suppliers and trade partners to maximize value and ensure compliance
• Develop and manage purchasing strategies to ensure cost efficiency and timely procurement of goods.
• Oversee inventory management processes to maintain optimal stock levels, prevent shortages and minimize demurrage costs.
• Utilize advanced inventory forecasting and replenishment techniques to support operational demands across all divisions.
• Oversee warehouse operations, ensuring efficient storage, picking, and dispatch processes across all divisions.
• Manage inbound and outbound logistics, including transportation planning and freight optimization.
• Implement and enforce quality assurance protocols for all supply chain activities.
• Conduct regular audits and work with teams to address non-conformances.
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure compliance with regulatory and customer quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with local and international HSE regulations and standards.
• Lead initiatives to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
• Oversee IT infrastructure supporting supply chain operations.
• Support digital transformation and automation initiatives to enhance performance.

QUALIFICATIONS (EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Engineering, Business, or related field. MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of fifteen (15) years within distribution or supply chain environments for FMCG items.
• A minimum of five (5) years in a senior leadership role.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES 

• Strong understanding of logistics, purchasing, inventory management, and supplier relationship best practices.
• Proven experience with ERP systems and supply chain technologies.
• Detail oriented.
• Proven ability to lead complex, multi-division operations with a focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills to manage teams and external partners effectively.
• Proficiency in enterprise resource planning (ERP) and supply chain management software.           
• Experience seeing projects through to fill life cycle
• Quality focus and commitment to high quality standards
• Safety & Regulatory Compliance Awareness
• Digital & Technological Literacy
• Strong interpersonal skills and extremely resourceful