Logistics Manager - Citrus / Agriculture

Our client is seeking an experienced Logistics Manager - Citrus / Agriculture to join their Port Elizabeth team, Manage shipping line relationships from an operational perspective Prepare shipping space requirements per week per market Communicate with shipping lines on vessel schedules and available space Evaluate shipping-line options and determine the best vessel and port based on customer requirements, cost, transit time and availability Ensure shipping decisions support the required customer ETAs Monitor vessel changes, delays, transshipments and other shipping risks with support from the customer representatives and logistics coordinators Plan container requirements Ensure the correct fruit is allocated to the correct customer and vessel Manage container loading schedules in conjunction with our logistics providers Coordinate loading requirements with packhouses, cold stores and logistics providers Plan movement of fruit from packhouse to cold store Monitor cold-store capacity, communicate with cold stores regarding daily stock flow in/out the cold stores Prevent unnecessary congestion in the supply chain Ensure stock is available at the correct location when required Manage customer allocations from a logistics perspective – Ensure the logistics coordinators action the allocations per the pack and commercial plans. Ensure fruit is allocated against the correct customer requirements and planned against the correct vessel Work backward from the required customer ETA to determine loading and shipping requirements Constant communication with the supply and commercial teams Work with the Demand Planner and production teams to understand upcoming supply Plan logistics requirements against expected harvest and packing volumes Ensure sufficient logistics capacity is available for expected production Requirements Grade 12 University Degree At least 3-5 years’ relevant experience in logistics, shipping or supply chain A hands-on, hardworking approach; this role owns execution, not just planning Strong communication skills for daily contact with shipping lines, packhouses and customers Valid driver’s licence and own transport Experience in the citrus or fresh produce export industry is a strong advantage