Local Distribution Partner Specialist
The Coca-Cola Company · Bloemfontein, Free State
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- To drive operational excellence, compliance, and performance across the Local Distribution Partner network through strategic partnership management, continuous improvement, and data-led decision-making.
Key Duties & Responsibilities Key Outcome
LDP Operations Management
- Design and implement standardised operational playbooks for LDPs, covering critical processes like order fulfillment, inventory management, warehousing, delivery logistics, and returns.
- Evaluate and propose technology solutions for LDPs to improve operational effectiveness and data visibility.
- Develop and implement a quality control and compliance audit framework to ensure LDPs adhere to company standards, product handling guidelines, and CCBSA regulations.
LDP Relationship Management
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all operational matters with assigned LDPs.
- Monitor and review LDP performance through trade contact reviews to drive sustainability.
- Negotiate and manage LDP contracts, ensuring favorable terms and conditions while maintaining strong partnerships.
- Address and resolve operational issues, disputes, and performance discrepancies with LDPs promptly and effectively.
Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Ensure LDP operations comply with all relevant food safety regulations, industry standards, and company quality policies e.g., HACCP, GMP.
- Conduct periodic audits of LDP facilities and processes to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
- Ensure LDPs are compliant to suggested min or max stock levels to drive quality in trade and delivery in full.
- Work with LDPs to implement corrective actions for any non-compliance issues.
Performance & Project Management
- Improve the overall performance of the LDP network through strategic initiatives and operational enhancements.
- Drive cost efficiencies and transformation through the implementation of key strategic projects.
- Develop and review Key Performance Indicators KPIs relevant to LDP warehouse efficiencies and performance, ensuring data-driven decision-making.
- Effectively manage LDP warehouse improvement projects, applying robust project management principles.
Data Analytics & Reporting
- Define requirements for LDP data collection and reporting, ensuring consistency and accuracy across the network for sales, inventory, delivery metrics, and customer feedback.
- Design and oversee the development of customised LDP performance dashboards that provide actionable insights for both CCBSA and the LDPs.
- Conduct regular analysis of LDP performance data, identifying trends, anomalies, and opportunities for operational enhancements or strategic shifts.
- Prepare and present insightful reports with clear recommendations to senior logistics management regarding LDP network health and future strategic direction.
Skills, Experience & Education Education
- Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field
Experience
- Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in logistics, warehousing, or distribution, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role, preferably within the FMCG Fast-Moving Consumer Goods or beverage industry.
- Proven track record of managing and optimizing distribution operations.
Skills
- Deep knowledge of warehousing, inventory management, transportation, and last-mile delivery.
- Capacity to build strong, collaborative relationships with independent LDP owners and their teams.
- Ability to collect, analyse, and interpret complex operational and sales data from various LDPs.
- Strong understanding of the financial drivers of distribution businesses, including costs, revenue streams, and profitability.
- Ability to quickly identify operational bottlenecks, performance gaps, or specific challenges faced by LDPs.
- Ability to Analyse the current LDP network, identify opportunities for expansion, consolidation, or Optimisation, and develop long-term strategies to enhance overall distribution efficiency, market penetration, and sales growth.
Deadline:2nd October,2026