The Warehouse Manager is responsible for the effective management of warehouse operations, ensuring the safe receipt, storage, handling, inventory control, order processing and dispatch of company products.
The role ensures that inventory records are accurate, products are stored under appropriate conditions, customer and distributor orders are fulfilled on time, and warehouse resources are utilised efficiently.
The successful candidate will maintain strong operational controls, minimise stock losses and product damage, ensure compliance with company policies and applicable regulations, and support the achievement of Blume Distribution Limited's (BDL) distribution and commercial objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Warehouse Operations Management:
Oversee daily warehouse activities, including receiving, put-away, storage, picking, packing, loading and dispatch.
Ensure that all warehouse operations are conducted efficiently, safely and in accordance with approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Develop effective warehouse layouts and storage systems to maximise space utilisation and improve operational efficiency.
Ensure timely processing and fulfilment of distributor, customer and internal orders.
Coordinate with Sales, Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance and other relevant departments to ensure seamless operations.
Monitor vehicle loading, dispatch documentation and the timely release of goods.
Inventory Management and Stock Accuracy:
Maintain accurate physical and system-based inventory records.
Ensure that all stock receipts, transfers, returns, adjustments and dispatches are properly documented and authorised.
Conduct regular cycle counts, periodic stocktakes and reconciliations between physical stock and system balances.
Investigate stock discrepancies, shortages, overages, damages and unexplained losses, and recommend corrective actions.
Enforce appropriate stock rotation using the First-In, First-Out (FIFO) principle and First-Expiry, First-Out (FEFO) where applicable.
Monitor stock levels, slow-moving items, near-expiry products and obsolete inventory.
Ensure that stock adjustments are supported by documented evidence and approved by authorised personnel.
Product Quality and Loss Prevention:
Ensure products are stored under suitable conditions to preserve quality, safety and marketability.
Inspect incoming goods for quantity, product condition, batch details, expiry dates and relevant documentation.
Ensure damaged, expired, contaminated, returned or otherwise non-conforming products are identified, segregated and reported promptly.
Implement measures to prevent pilferage, theft, unauthorised stock movement and product deterioration.
Maintain proper housekeeping, pest-control arrangements and hygiene standards.
Ensure compliance with applicable food safety, product handling and storage requirements.
Dispatch, Distribution and Logistics Coordination:
Coordinate warehouse dispatch schedules with the Sales and Logistics teams.
Verify that products released for dispatch match approved sales orders, picking lists and delivery documentation.
Ensure accurate loading, proper product handling and confirmation of quantities dispatched.
Monitor order fulfilment timelines and investigate delays or delivery discrepancies attributable to warehouse operations.
Ensure that returned goods are documented, inspected and processed in accordance with approved procedures.
Support distributor reconciliation and investigation of stock-related complaints.
Documentation and Systems Management:
Ensure timely and accurate entry of warehouse transactions into the approved ERP, Warehouse Management System (WMS) or inventory platform.
Maintain organised records of goods received notes, goods issue notes, stock transfer documents, delivery notes, returns, stock counts and other warehouse records.
Ensure warehouse transactions are supported by appropriate source documents and authorisations.
Work with IT, Finance and Supply Chain teams to improve inventory visibility, system reliability and process automation.
Prevent unauthorised system access, backdated transactions and undocumented inventory movements.
People Management and Development:
Supervise, coach and develop warehouse employees to achieve operational and service targets.
Allocate responsibilities, prepare work schedules and monitor employee productivity.
Ensure staff comply with attendance requirements, safety procedures, warehouse rules and company policies.
Identify training needs and facilitate relevant training in inventory management, product handling, equipment use and workplace safety.
Promote accountability, teamwork, discipline and continuous improvement.
Escalate misconduct, negligence, policy breaches and performance concerns through the appropriate management channels.
Health, Safety and Security:
Enforce warehouse health, safety and security procedures.
Ensure appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe operating practices.