A fast-growing wine distribution company seeks a dynamic Operations Manager to lead and strengthen the operational backbone of the business. The business sits at the intersection of wine, logistics, education and hospitality, delivering premium South African wines to lodges, hotels, restaurants, retailers and consumers across multiple countries in Africa. We pride ourselves on customer service and a data-driven supply chain capable of delivering exceptional service across borders and markets.
This is a key leadership role overseeing the entire distribution process — from procurement and inventory management to exports, logistics, warehouse operations and cross-border deliveries. Working closely with EXCO, sales, procurement and customer success teams, you will ensure that every order moves efficiently through the supply chain while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, compliance and customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on — someone who enjoys building systems, improving processes and solving operational challenges. Fluency and comfort with AI and technology is imperative and using these systems to improve efficiencies through automation.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop efficient route planning for deliveries and optimize distribution schedules to ensure timely, accurate and cost-effective order fulfillment.
- Track and analyse cross-border shipments, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency across the supply chain.
- Manage freight partners and transport providers to ensure reliable service and competitive pricing.
- Oversee export logistics and ensure the correct use of INCO terms and international trade requirements.
- Ensure accurate inventory management and optimal warehouse operations including receiving, storage, picking and dispatch.
- Monitor stock levels, stock value and product rotation to maintain optimal inventory health.
- Collaborate with sales and brand teams on forecasting and par level management.
- Ensure appropriate storage and transport conditions to protect the integrity and quality of premium wines.
- Lead and supervise the operations team, including procurement, exports and warehouse personnel.
- Establish and monitor KPIs and performance targets aligned with company objectives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, ownership and continuous improvement within the operations team.
- Build strong relationships with logistics providers, freight partners and beverage suppliers.
- Negotiate transport and logistics contracts to achieve cost-effective distribution.
- Monitor supplier performance and ensure service delivery meets company standards.
- Design and implement systems and processes that improve operational efficiency.
- Leverage technology and logistics tools to enhance reporting, tracking and inventory management.
- Assist with development and refinement of Landed Cost Calculators (LCCs) and operational financial tools.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety standards within the warehouse environment.
- Implement safety protocols and training to maintain a secure working environment.
- Maintain compliance with export regulations, licensing requirements and distribution standards.
- Prepare regular operational reports including delivery metrics, inventory turnover, stock value and consignment stock.
- Develop freight and transport budgets with a focus on achieving profitable logistics operations.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement budget controls across the operational function.
- Support the exploration of logistics and export requirements for new markets as part of the company’s growth strategy.
Essential
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in operations or logistics management.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making ability.
- Strong communication and coordination skills across teams.
- Proficiency with logistics, inventory or ERP systems.
- Data-driven mindset with the ability to interpret operational metrics.
Highly Advantageous
- Experience within wine, beverage or FMCG distribution.
- Familiarity with wine export regulations (including duty-free exports) and international logistics.
- Experience managing cross-border logistics within Africa
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The success of the Operations Manager will be measured through:
- Reduction in order lead times
- Percentage of orders delivered without error
- Average delivery time to customers
- Cost per bottle distributed
- Freight and transport budget performance
- Stock value optimisation
- Effective stock rotation and shelf-life management
- Compliance with export regulations and licensing requirements
- Risk management across storage and transport
- Customer feedback and NPS scores related to delivery performance
- Consistent publication of operational reports
- Implementation of documented systems and processes
- Successful logistics execution for new market entries