Title:  Logistics Analyst

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Immediate Superior: Conrad Strauss 
Job Grade: 15 
Location: Stellenbosch
Function: Supply Chain
Sub Function: Supply Chain - Customer, Logistics and Distribution
Type of Contract: Permanent
Reference Number: 136125 
Closing Date: 16/05/2025

Purpose of the job:

The Logistics Analyst plays a critical role in optimizing and streamlining logistics operations. With a focus on data analysis, excise management, inventory management, cost optimization, and continuous improvement, this position supports decision-making across logistics and the supply chain. The Logistics Analyst will be responsible for ensuring accurate inventory balancing, efficient supply into OPCO warehouses, comprehensive transport reporting, cost-benefit analysis, regulatory compliance, recon and management of the excise account, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across the logistics network. This role requires a strong analytical mindset, a deep understanding of logistics processes, and the ability to influence operational and strategic decisions.

Key Responsibilities of the job:

1. Inventory Balancing Across HBI:

• Analyze inventory data to identify trends, discrepancies, and areas for improvement in stock management.
• Work closely with supply and demand managers to align forecast demand to the logistics network and operational constraints.
• Ensure efficient distribution of inventory across different warehouses, to minimize transportation costs and delivery times while maintaining adequate stock levels.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the efficiency of deployment.

2. Supply into OPCO Warehouses:

• Manage the efficient and timely supply of goods into cross-border OPCO warehouses, ensuring seamless coordination between production, logistics, and inventory teams.
• Analyse and monitor cross-border warehouse capacity based on stock on hand, production plans and rate of sales/forecast to ensure sufficient space available.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the efficiency of warehouse supply and identify opportunities for improvement.

3. Management of Excise Account:

• Management of the document control process. Ensuring timeously digitization of documents onto SAP. (Acting as the superuser for the SAP/EDI platform)
• Performing monthly reconciliations of our excise account (DA260). Verifying the accuracy and validity of the export documents. Ensuring the correct warehouse number, quantities, tariff items dates and materials were declared.
• Ensuring clearing agents declare all exports correct and timeously. Manage and track any voucher of correction with clearing agents.
• Generating monthly journals the wines, ciders and vermouth OS accounts.
• Report on all stock discrepancies, duty paid removals to sites and customers.
• Population of monthly SARS E-filing accounts for wines/ciders/vermouth OS and spirits and malt beer.
• Compile monthly excise accounts by reporting on all bonded receipts, removals as well as any duty paid removals (inter-warehouse and duty paid customers). Reporting on opening and closing stock balances, and analyse any stock discrepancies.

4. Transport Reporting:

• Generate and analyze transport reports, including adherence, On-Time In-Full (OTIF) performance, cost savings, and efficiency metrics.
• Track and report on key transport KPIs, highlighting areas of concern and suggesting corrective actions.
• Prepare regular performance reviews for transport providers, ensuring that they meet contractual obligations and service levels.
• Collaborate with transport planners to develop strategies for improving transport performance, reducing lead times, and optimizing routes.

• Conduct deep-dive analyses of transportation costs and performance to identify areas where savings can be realized and operational improvements can be made.

5. Cost-Benefit Analysis:

• Perform cost-benefit analyses to evaluate the financial impact of logistics decisions, including transportation options, warehouse layouts, and inventory management strategies.
• Work with senior leadership to develop cost-saving initiatives and provide recommendations for reducing logistics expenses without compromising service levels.
• Analyze the financial performance of third-party logistics providers, identifying areas for renegotiation or optimization of service contracts.
• Evaluate and report on the return on investment (ROI) for logistics projects, ensuring that improvements contribute positively to the bottom line.

6. Regulatory Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with local, national, and international regulations relating to transport, warehousing, and logistics operations.
• Stay up to date with changes in laws and regulations that affect the logistics industry (e.g., customs, excise, environmental laws).
• Work closely with the internal audit team to ensure all necessary certifications and audits are completed and adhered to in all logistics operations.

7. Continuous Improvement (TPM):

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives (CI) across logistics operations, identifying inefficiencies and proposing innovative solutions.
• Support roll-out of TPM practices to maximize logistics productivity.
• Work with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements, ensuring they align with overall business objectives and deliver measurable results.
• Participate in regular process reviews, root cause analysis, and problem-solving activities to identify areas for operational improvement.

8. Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Collect, analyze, and interpret large sets of logistics data, identifying key trends, opportunities, and challenges within the supply chain.
• Develop dashboards and visual reports that provide insights into logistics performance for management.
• Leverage advanced Excel skills or data analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) to develop actionable reports that influence decision-making.

9. Supplier and Vendor Management:

• Monitor performance and maintain relationships with third-party suppliers and logistics partners.
• Ensure that suppliers adhere to agreed-upon SLAs and contractual terms, addressing any performance issues that arise.
• Conduct vendor reviews and support negotiations to improve service levels, reduce costs, or enhance operational efficiency.

10. Project Management & Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Lead or support logistics-related projects aimed at improving supply chain efficiency, implementing new systems, or introducing new technologies.
• Collaborate with internal departments such as procurement, finance, and production to ensure alignment of logistics strategies with broader business goals.
• Provide expert guidance and support for the development of logistics strategies in new markets or regions.

11. Technology & Systems Optimization:

• Support the optimization and ongoing management of the logistics software used within the organization.
• Monitor system performance and work with IT teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues impacting logistics operations.

Education Requirements: 

A Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Management Accounting, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.

Experience Required:

• At least 3-5 years of experience in a logistics or supply chain environment, with a strong focus on data analysis, reporting, and cost optimization.
• Experience with logistics software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience in managing relationships with third-party logistics providers and suppliers.
• Proven track record in managing processes and delivering cost-saving initiatives.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and generate actionable insights.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze large datasets, identify trends, and draw conclusions that support decision-making.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in reporting, data interpretation, and inventory management.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify inefficiencies, root causes, and implement corrective actions to drive improvements.
• Communication & Influence: Presenting findings and recommendations clearly to senior management and cross-functional teams.
• Cost Optimization: Focus on identifying opportunities to reduce logistics costs while maintaining operational efficiency.
• Continuous Improvement: Strong drive for operational excellence and improvement through data-driven initiatives.
• Previous experience in the wine and liquor manufacturing and distribution industry will be highly advantageous.
• Excellent conflict Management and resolution skills.
• Excellent verbal & written communication skills.

The Company’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. Heineken Beverages (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd) is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates and values inclusion and diversity. You must be fully eligible to live and work in South Africa to apply.