Employer: Pepkor Lifestyle Role Purpose: The Regional Operations Manager will oversee and manage multiple Warehouses and Distribution Centre's within the assigned region. This role is responsible for ensuring operational efficiency, service excellence, compliance, and cost-effectiveness across all facilities. The incumbent will drive operational performance, optimise processes, manage people, and ensure that customer satisfaction, productivity, and profitability targets are consistently achieved. Key Responsibilities: Operational Management: * Oversee day-to-day operations of multiple warehouses within the region. * Ensure effective planning, execution, and monitoring of warehouse activities (receiving, storage, order fulfilment, dispatch, returns, and reverse logistics). * Drive operational excellence through implementation of best practices, process improvements, and performance standards. * Manage stock accuracy, shrinkage, and ensure adherence to inventory control policies. Strategic & Financial Management: * Develop and implement regional operational strategies aligned with business goals. * Monitor and manage operational budgets, cost controls, and resource allocations. * Track and report on KPIs including OTIF (On Time In Full), turnaround times, cost per unit, and productivity. * Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs and increase profitability. People Leadership: * Lead, motivate, and manage Warehouse Managers and operational staff across the region. * Build capability through coaching, mentoring, and training initiatives. * Ensure compliance with labour legislation, company policies, and health & safety regulations. * Drive a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement. Compliance & Risk Management: * Ensure adherence to company policies, health & safety standards, and statutory requirements. * Implement risk management and contingency plans for operational disruptions. * Oversee compliance with customer SLAs, service standards, and quality requirements. Stakeholder Management: * Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders (sales, procurement, transport, finance) and external service providers. * Ensure customer satisfaction through timely communication, service delivery, and issue resolution. * Represent the region at executive meetings and contribute to group-wide operational strategies. Qualifications & Experience: * Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Management, or related field (Postgraduate qualification advantageous). * Minimum 7–10 years’ experience in warehouse/distribution Centre management, with at least 3–5 years at a regional or multi-site management level. * Proven track record in managing high-volume, fast-paced warehouse operations. * Strong knowledge of supply chain processes, WMS (Warehouse Management Systems), and logistics solutions. * Solid financial acumen and experience in budgeting, cost management, and reporting. Skills & Competencies: * Strong leadership and people management skills. * Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. * High-level communication and negotiation skills. * Analytical and data-driven mindset with strong reporting abilities. * Ability to manage multiple priorities across diverse sites. * Resilient, adaptable, and able to perform under pressure. Performance Indicators (KPIs): * Achievement of operational efficiency targets (e.g., OTIF, inventory accuracy, order turnaround time). * Budget adherence and cost control within region. * Employee retention, engagement, and development. * Customer satisfaction and SLA compliance. * Continuous improvement initiatives implemented successfully.