Our esteemed client is looking to recruit a Cold Store & Distribution Manager within their team. The candidate is responsible for managing the complete process of finished goods, from forecasting production requirements to ensuring efficient warehousing, order picking, distribution, and customer satisfaction. This role encompasses overseeing cold storage logistics, coordinating order fulfilment and addressing after-sales complaints to optimise inventory, minimise distribution costs, and effectively meet customer demands.
Key Duties :
- Analyse sales data, historical trends, and market demand to forecast finished goods production needs, ensuring sufficient supply for distribution;
- Work closely with production and sales teams to align inventory levels and proactively address demand fluctuations;
- Streamline picking and handling operations to ensure timely order fulfilment while maintaining the chill chain to preserve product quality;
- Oversee the entire distribution process, from the warehouse to the point of sale, ensuring accurate and prompt order delivery;
- Plan and manage transportation schedules and routes to optimize logistics for cost-effective and efficient delivery.;
- Supervise cold storage logistics to maintain the safety and quality of temperature-sensitive products throughout storage and transit
- Direct cold warehouse operations, ensuring adherence to storage regulations, effective temperature control, and best practices in inventory management.
- Track stock levels, conduct regular inventory counts, and coordinate with production teams to ensure timely replenishment;
- Maintain accurate records of finished goods inventory and ensure adequate supply is available in the warehouse;
- Manage the entire sales order cycle, from order placement to distribution, ensuring seamless transitions between departments and minimising delays;
- Collaborate with quality assurance, sales, and customer service teams to address customer-specific requests and prioritize orders effectively;
- Oversee after-sales services, including efficiently resolving customer complaints to ensure satisfaction and foster loyalty;
- Monitor complaint trends, analyse root causes, and implement corrective measures to enhance service quality and prevent recurring issues;
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for distribution, warehousing, and customer service to identify areas for improvement;
- Prepare and share regular reports on stock levels, order fulfilment rates, transportation costs, and customer satisfaction metrics;
- Identify opportunities to improve supply chain processes, streamline operations, reduce costs, and boost efficiency;
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the entire supply chain, from forecasting and production to distribution and after-sales service;
- Lead, mentor, and manage the sales and distribution teams to achieve peak performance and meet organisational goals;
- Supervise Customer Care and Front Office teams, ensuring they provide effective support and exceptional service to all customers;
- Foster team motivation and engagement while addressing skill gaps and promoting professional development;
- Simplify supply chain processes and procedures to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs;
- Develop and maintain comprehensive procedures for areas of responsibility, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, policies, and standards;
- Design and implement strategic supply chain plans to drive growth and operational excellence;
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers and negotiate with distributors to achieve sales targets;
- Address complaints promptly, provide effective after-sales support, and implement strategies to manage product returns and minimise waste;
- Oversee invoicing and cash collection systems, working closely with the Finance Department to manage distributor payments;
- Develop and adhere to budgets within areas of responsibility, ensuring optimal use of resources while maintaining financial discipline;
- Work collaboratively with production, finance, and other departments to align inventory, sales, and distribution activities with company objectives;
- Support the integration of supply chain processes to ensure a unified and efficient operation;
- Perform ad hoc tasks as assigned, ensuring comprehensive support across all areas of responsibility.
Education & Experience:
- Possess a qualification equivalent to MQF Level 6 or higher;
- A minimum of 5 years of managerial experience in distribution, logistics, and supply chain management, ideally within the FMCG or dairy industry;
- Comprehensive understanding of inventory management, cold storage logistics, and distribution planning;
- Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement;
- Proficient in using ERP or supply chain management software and the Microsoft Office Suite;
- Proven experience in successfully developing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs);
- Solid knowledge of business and management principles, including budgeting, cost accounting, strategic planning, resource allocation, and human resource management;
- Self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of performing under pressure;
- Skilled in data analysis, trend forecasting, and making informed decisions to optimise supply chain operations;
- Dedicated to addressing customer needs and resolving complaints effectively to ensure high levels of satisfaction;
- Meticulous in managing inventory, orders, and logistics details, with particular attention to cold storage requirements;
- Ability to adapt to shifting demands, production schedules, and customer needs;
- Strong communication skills in English, with proficiency in Maltese considered an asset;
- Preference will be given to candidate who hold a degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business and/or equivalent.
The role offers a an attractive package for the right candidate. An opportunity to work within a great team! Interested? Apply today!
If the above roles are not for you but know someone who might be interested, refer a friend to StreetHR and receive up to €300 upon successful placement. Terms and Conditions apply. Speak to us for more information on careers@streethr.com.mt