Supply Chain Lead

Supply Chain
KwaZulu Natal – South Africa

Supply Chain Leader | Durban | Manufacturing Sector
 
Are you a seasoned supply chain professional ready to lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment? Our client, a well-established industry leader, is seeking a Supply Chain Leader to join their team in Durban. This is a senior management role with strategic influence across procurement, logistics, and materials management.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategy
  • Lead and inspire the supply chain team, driving performance, accountability, and professional development.
  • Set strategic direction for procurement, warehousing, and distribution aligned with company goals.
KPI Development & Alignment
  • Define and implement functional key performance indicators in alignment with broader supply chain and business objectives, ensuring continuous performance tracking and improvement.
Procurement Management
  • Oversee sourcing, supplier negotiations, and contract management to ensure high-quality, cost-effective procurement.
  • Establish and manage budgets for all procurement-related functions.
Logistics & Distribution Oversight
  • Ensure efficient distribution of finished goods through third-party logistics partners.
  • Manage service-level agreements and ensure delivery performance meets internal and external customer expectations.
Warehouse Operations
  • Direct the management of raw material and finished goods warehousing.
  • Implement best practices to ensure optimal inventory levels, cost control, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Raw Materials & Additives Management
  • Lead the planning and control of raw materials and additives, ensuring timely availability to support uninterrupted production.
Stock Management & Reporting
  • Coordinate month-end and annual physical stock counts.
  • Ensure data accuracy and integrity in inventory systems.
  • Prepare and deliver detailed supply chain performance reports for senior leadership.
Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Foster strong relationships with cross-functional teams and external service providers.
  • Engage proactively with internal departments to support business needs and ensure seamless operations.
Process Ownership & Continuous Improvement
  • Own and enhance key supply chain processes, identifying opportunities for efficiency, automation, and cost reduction.
Third-Party Management
  • Oversee the performance and compliance of third-party contractors responsible for logistics and packaging services.
Cost Optimization
  • Develop and deliver cost-effective warehousing and packaging solutions.
  • Analyze cost drivers and implement strategies to improve the supply chain’s bottom line.
Governance & Compliance
  • Ensure all supply chain activities adhere to internal policies, safety standards, and relevant legislation.
Executive Participation
  • Actively contribute to strategic decision-making as a member of the Management Committee.
 
Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Commerce or equivalent degree (Postgraduate qualification is a plus).
  • Minimum 10 years’ experience in a senior supply chain leadership role.
  • Proven experience managing supply chain operations in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Strong leadership, mentorship, and stakeholder management skills.
  • trategic thinker with an eye for operational efficiency.
  • Experience managing budgets and leading cross-functional teams.
  • Familiarity with managing service-level agreements and performance reporting.
 
If you’re ready to lead a high-performing supply chain team and drive meaningful operational impact, we encourage you to apply today.