The Operations Supervisor supports the Warehouse Manager in the day-to-day operational execution of the warehouse. The role coordinates checkers general workers and forklift operators stock readiness shift activities safety compliance and customer service delivery to ensure seamless operational performance. The Operations Supervisor is responsible for ensuring shift targets documentation accuracy and adherence to SOPs SHEQ standards and contractual requirements. This role provides hands-on supervision and contributes to operational problem solving efficiency improvements and safe cost-effective service deliveries of products/goods.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Coordination
Execute daily operational plans and allocate resources according to schedules.
Conduct shift start-up checks and readiness assessments.
Monitor live operations via WMS.
Ensure on-time departures of product.
Complete daily shift reports and escalate operational risks promptly.
Maintain operations continuity across rotating shifts weekends and night operations.
MHE & Technical Support
Conduct daily inspections for MHE readiness.
Report breakdowns and anomalies into relevant systems.
Follow up on repairs tyre changes and maintenance-related actions.
Staff Supervision
Supervise checkers forklift operators and general workers and admin staff during assigned shifts.
Enforce operational and safety procedures; ensure availability of PPE and adherence to standards.
Support the Warehouse Manager with performance tracking attendance control coaching and basic IR processes.
Identify skills gaps and recommend training or corrective actions.
Customer & Stakeholder Support
Engage with customer representatives on day-to-day operational matters.
Communicate delays risks and shift performance updates.
Support execution of customer requirements site-specific protocols and escalation processes.
Assist in implementing corrective actions for service-level deviations.
Safety Compliance & SHEQ Duties
Enforce compliance with SHEQ policies PPE and operational SOPs.
Conduct toolbox talks safety briefings and incident first-level reporting.
Participate in safety inspections and audits.
Ensure accurate completion of checklists incident logs near-miss reports and compliance documentation.
Facilities Housekeeping & Site Control
Maintain site cleanliness yard control and compliance with customer site rules.
Support inspections of loading/offloading zones equipment storage and PPE distribution.
Escalate maintenance needs for yard ablutions offices and equipment.
Qualifications & Experience
Matric (Grade 12)
Diploma/Certificate in Transport Logistics Supply Chain Production Management or related field (advantageous)
Valid drivers licence (Code EC); PrDP advantageous
35 years experience in a Warehouse and transport operations environment
12 years experience in a supervisory or team-lead role
Exposure to scheduling shift management and driver coordination
Experience using Warehouse Management Systems
Skills & Competencies
Knowledge
Understanding of operational processes
Basic Labour Legislation and IR principles
Main Collective Agreement for the NBCRFLI and SHERQ requirement
Knowledge of KPIs SLAs and operational reporting
Skills
Strong coordination and organisational skills
Effective communication and customer interaction
Problem-solving and decision-making at operational level
Ability to supervise and guide teams
Computer literacy (Excel Outlook reporting tools)
High safety awareness and attention to detail
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
Required Experience:
Manager
Unitrans offers innovative logistics and supply chain solutions across Africa. With over 100 years of experience in agriculture, mining, petrochemical, food & consumer, transport and industrial.