Operations Manager / Branch Manager at Bidvest International Logistics

Job Purpose    

• Bidvest International Logistics is looking to appoint an Operations Manager / Branch Manager to lead every aspect of running our branch in East London.
• The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining sound relationships with key external clients, internal clients, third party service providers and other stakeholders towards exceptional service delivery as well as manage expenditure of the branch and provide ideas for continuous improvement.
• Manage and mitigate risk with regards to SARS Customs / financial risks / client penalties / company risks, etc.
• The successful incumbent should ensure staff are engaged, empowered and motivated to deliver a customer service that will lead to improved financial performance.

Qualifications & Experience    

• Matric / Grade 12
• Relevant tertiary qualification highly advantageous
• Proven general Managerial experience in the Freight Forwarding and Customs Clearing industry
• Proven International Forwarding knowledge and expertise
• Supply Chain knowledge essential
• Good knowledge and understanding of Customs processes and legislation
• Should hold a valid Code 8 driver’s license

Key Responsibilities    
Responsibilities, but not limited to: - 

• Constantly build strong, value add relationships with top automotive clients
• Manage OEM's service deliverables in line with their agreed Service deliverables as laid down in their contracts
• Ensure no service failures iro IO integration, immediate escalate where failures occur and elevate for prompt action, ensure no penalties incurred
• Manage all reporting, including montly KPI reporting to clients; monthly reporting to Director; other monthly reporting including Compliance Team reporting; statistical reporting, etc.  Highlight discrepancies and advise corrective actions taken to prevent issue from reoccuring
• Manage all aspects of Operations including service levels, productivity and profitability as well as the Customs processes and risks
• Manage expenditure and provide inputs for continuous improvement
• Implement best practice / operations excellence principles in all aspects of operations where not currently in place
• Audit BIL shipment processes and recommend corrective actions and improvements in order to align with best practice
• Instil a culture of  Risk mitigation and Compliance
• Assist in training staff and clients in all aspects of operations
• Meeting and improving agreed KPI’s 
• Assist with RFQ's and estimates as required
• Manage performance by optimising OTIFINE (On Time, In Full, No Errors)

Skills & Competencies    
Knowledge:  

• Proven knowledge of all aspects of Sea and Air  -imports & exports; including Overborder and Cross-Trade
• Proven computer skills
• Proven exposure to managing Legal Compliance and Risk Mitigation
• Proven knowledge of SHERQ roles and responsibilities
• Proven knowledge of Port / Airport rules and regulations and requirement.
• Financial exposure and knowledge to interpret P&L's
• HR & IR knowledge and exposure iro dealing with disciplinary enquiries
• Good understanding of IT integration processes
• Good Commercial knowledge including understanding client rates and profitability

Skills:

• Highly developed negotiation skills.
• Well-developed people skills.
• Well-developed presentation skills.
• Expert written and verbal communications skills.
• Highly developed computer skills are essential.
• Ability to liaise and negotiate at all levels within an organisation.
• Good understanding of Customs modernisation and implications.
• A systematic, logical, analytical approach to problem solving and decision making which is complimented by high energy levels.
• Good working knowledge of the various legislation that governs our business i.e. SARS Customs & Vat Acts; OH&S; Protection of 
• Personal Information; Ports Act; Road; Haz Goods, etc.
• Good organisational skills.
• Self-motivator.
• Well groomed and presented in a professional manner

Closing Date    
2023/05/10