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Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Transport Manager who is fluent in both English and Mandarin (written and verbal) to oversee the planning, coordination, and management of all transportation operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods while maintaining the highest operational standards. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, contractor management, and a thorough understanding of transport legislation and industry best practices. The ability to communicate effectively in Mandarin is essential, as the role involves regular interaction with Mandarin-speaking stakeholders and business partners.

Key Responsibilities

Transport Operations

  • Manage the day-to-day transportation operations to ensure the efficient movement of goods.
  • Develop and implement transport strategies that support the company’s operational and business objectives.
  • Identify and implement appropriate transport solutions to optimise efficiency and service delivery.
  • Monitor transport schedules, delivery performance, and travel times to maximise productivity.
  • Investigate transport incidents, operational issues, and service failures, implementing corrective actions where required.
  • Ensure fleet operations comply with all company policies, legal requirements, and industry regulations.

Fleet & Contractor Management

  • Oversee the effective utilisation of company and contracted transport resources.
  • Source, evaluate, and onboard new transport contractors.
  • Ensure all contractor agreements are signed, maintained, and compliant.
  • Verify that contractor documentation, permits, licences, and certifications remain valid and up to date.
  • Coordinate vehicle allocation based on operational requirements.

Safety, Compliance & Risk Management

  • Ensure vehicle, driver, and security procedures comply with company standards and legislative requirements.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain transport safety policies and procedures.
  • Coordinate and manage driver safety and defensive driving training programmes.
  • Promote a strong safety culture across all transport operations.
  • Ensure compliance with all transport legislation, road safety regulations, and company policies.

Planning & Reporting

  • Prepare annual transport operational plans and departmental budgets.
  • Develop departmental strategies, objectives, and performance measures.
  • Monitor departmental performance against agreed targets and key performance indicators.
  • Produce operational reports, transport surveys, statistical analyses, and management reports as required.
  • Review departmental expenditure and ensure transport operations remain within approved budgets.

Financial & Operational Management

  • Manage transport-related operational expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings.
  • Prepare pricing information, transport routes, vehicle utilisation plans, and operational schedules.
  • Review transport costs and recommend improvements to increase operational efficiency.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives across the transport function.

Leadership & Collaboration

  • Work closely with operational managers and other departments to achieve business objectives.
  • Provide leadership, guidance, and support to transport staff and contractors.
  • Foster strong working relationships with internal stakeholders and external service providers.
  • Drive operational excellence through effective planning, communication, and teamwork.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

  • Diploma in Transport Management, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related qualification.

Experience

  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in transport, logistics, or fleet management.
  • Proven experience managing transport operations, contractor relationships, and compliance.
  • Experience in budgeting, operational planning, and performance management.

Technical Skills

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly:
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Microsoft Word
  • Experience working with RTMS or similar transport management systems.

Language Requirements

  • Fluent in English (written and verbal).
  • Fluent in Mandarin (written and verbal).
  • Additional language proficiency will be advantageous.

Knowledge & Competencies

  • Strong understanding of transport legislation and industry regulations.
  • Knowledge of fleet management principles and transport safety standards.
  • Excellent planning, organisational, and prioritisation skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Financial acumen with experience managing operational budgets.
  • Ability to prepare detailed reports and performance analyses.
  • Strong negotiation and contractor management skills.
  • High level of attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.
  • Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure while meeting deadlines.
  • Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
  • Collaborative team player with excellent stakeholder management abilities.


    • Job type: Permanent
    • Location: Johannesburg
    • Date posted:
    • Pay:R- R per hour