Trainee Manager

We are seeking a motivated, proactive, and ambitious Trainee Manager to participate in a structured management development programme within a busy Distribution Centre.

This role is designed to develop future Distribution Centre Managers by providing practical exposure to all operational and administrative functions within a fast-paced warehouse environment. Working alongside experienced managers, the successful candidate will gain valuable experience in receiving, dispatch, inventory management, customer service, food safety, operational reporting, people management, and continuous improvement.

The Trainee Manager will progressively develop the leadership, operational, and decision-making skills required to manage a high-volume distribution environment while ensuring compliance with company procedures, food safety standards, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Training

• Participate in structured training across all Distribution Centre functions.

• Learn Receiving, Dispatch, Inventory Control, Picking, and Packing operations.

• Gain an understanding of warehouse workflows and operational planning.

• Develop an understanding of customer service standards and operational requirements.

Operational Support

• Support managers in the day-to-day operations of the Distribution Centre.

• Assist in coordinating daily operational activities.

• Monitor workflow and contribute to operational efficiency.

• Assist in resolving operational queries and escalating issues where necessary.

Stock & Inventory Management

• Develop an understanding of stock movement and inventory control.

• Assist with stock investigations and reconciliations.

• Support stock accuracy initiatives.

• Learn claims, shortages, and returns procedures.

Systems & Reporting

• Develop competency in warehouse management systems and other operational software.

• Capture and maintain accurate system information.

• Assist with operational reporting and KPI monitoring.

• Analyse operational data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

Team Leadership

• Shadow experienced managers to develop leadership capability.

• Build effective working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.

• Participate in shift planning and labour coordination.

• Develop communication, coaching, and supervisory skills.

Food Safety, Compliance & Health and Safety

• Learn and uphold company food safety standards.

• Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.

• Participate in operational audits and compliance activities.

• Promote safe working practices within the Distribution Centre.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

• Support the implementation of new operational processes.

• Contribute ideas that improve productivity, quality, and customer service.

Process Management

• Work closely with the Process Manager to understand and implement approved operational processes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Support the implementation of process improvements and system enhancements.

• Develop an understanding of operational compliance and best practices.

• Identify process improvement opportunities and report operational inefficiencies.

• Assist in maintaining consistency across operational activities by following approved procedures.

• Support operational reporting, documentation, audit, and system compliance requirements.

Qualifications

• Matric Certificate (Grade 12)

• Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, or Business Management (advantageous)

Experience

• Previous retail, warehouse, or distribution experience will be advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Own reliable transport

• Valid South African Driver's Licence

• Bilingual (English and Afrikaans)

• Computer literate (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Willingness to work flexible hours, weekends, and public holidays when operationally required

Position: Trainee Manager

Department: Operations / Distribution Centre

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: City Deep, Johannesburg

Salary: R12,500 per month

Reports to: Distribution Centre Manager