Distribution And Planning Lead

Overview We are PepsiCo. PepsiCo is proud to be one of the world's leading food and beverage companies. Every day, we are dedicated to bringing our mission to create more smiles with every sip and every bite to life. Our products are enjoyed more than one billion times a day in more than countries and territories around the world. Our portfolio — including Lay's, Doritos, Gatorade, Pepsi and Quaker — consists of many iconic brands that generate more than US $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales, helping to deliver more than US $70 billion in net revenue in Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with PepsiCo Positive. Through PepsiCo Positive, we are charting a new course to drive positive action for the planet and people. PepsiCo Positive is an end-to-end strategic business transformation with sustainability at the centre of how we will create growth and value by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change. In South Africa (SA), you will find our products across the region at breakfast, lunch or dinner. At the gym or on the field. In the office or on the go. We refresh, restore and rejuvenate our consumers all day, every day with our key brands including Simba, Lay's, Liqui Fruit and Bokomo range of cereals. PepsiCo SA employs more than 13 people across our three business divisions : Bakeries, Grains, Foods, Fruit, Snacks, Juice & Beverages. Responsibilities What we're looking for: We are looking for a Distribution & Planning Lead to join our dynamic team. Operations Management & Distribution Lead the design of optimal delivery routes to ensure timely and cost-effective transportation of goods. Oversee the maintenance, scheduling, and use of delivery vehicles to ensure they are efficient and reliable. Oversee stock levels and ensure that the right amount of inventory is maintained to meet delivery demand. Ensure that all distribution activities comply with relevant health and safety regulations. Design and drive implementation procedures to minimize the risk of accidents, product damage, or other issues during storage and transportation. Identify ways to reduce costs, such as optimizing routes, improving warehouse operations, or reducing fuel consumption. Own the distribution budget, including transportation costs, labor, and warehouse expenses. Drive continuous delivery network optimisation. People Growth & Leadership Lead and manage distribution structure to ensure smooth operations. Set performance goals for the distribution team and regularly assess their performance to maintain high productivity. Ensure training to distribution staff on procedures, safety, and efficiency improvements. Oversee all Industrial Relations and disciplinary procedures. Oversee shift schedules and manage workforce allocation to meet operational needs. Systems, Procedures & Practices Drive implementation of warehouse and transport management systems to streamline operations. Ensure compliance with local and international transportation laws, including licenses, permits, and vehicle weight restrictions. Design policies and ensure compliance with food safety standards during transportation and storage. Ensure that the distribution complies with environmental regulations, such as minimizing emissions and managing waste. Relationship Results Build and maintain strong relationships, and ensure daily communication with sales department to maximise sales. Build and maintain strong and ensure daily communications with the operations team to ensure that the right product is available in full and in time. Relationship with IDCs to ensure proper planning of distribution and routes compliance. Innovation & Improvement Implement systems to ensure products with a shorter shelf life are distributed first. Identify ways to reduce costs, such as optimizing routes, improving warehouse operations, and optimise costs to serve. Qualifications Logistics, Supply Chain Diploma / Degree or similar qualification. Minimum 10 years relevant experience in warehousing and distribution within a unionised environment. Minimum of 5 years in a leadership position. Proficient in MS Office and SAP or equivalent ERP system. Good communication skills. Strong analytical skills. Drive for results. Displays "out of the box" thinking. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a team effectively. FMCG & Food Safety Distribution Experience is essential. PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer in line with the Employment Equity Act. #J-18808-Ljbffr