Senior Logistics Manager (4 Month Contract)
Bryanston, Sandton, 2191, South Africa · Permanent · Other
About My Client Our client is a well-established destination management and events organisation that delivers complex travel, sports and event programmes for local and international clients. Known for service excellence and disciplined operational delivery, the business works across multiple teams and supplier networks to create seamless, high-quality client experiences. Role Purpose The Senior Logistics Manager will plan, manage and deliver all logistical operations and movements for approved local and global sports and event projects. The role is responsible for coordinating transport, accommodation, staffing, suppliers and supporting documentation accurately, cost-effectively and on schedule. The successful candidate will maintain strong professional relationships, reduce operational risk and contribute to the successful delivery of each event. Key Responsibilities Strategy and Operational Planning Support senior operational leadership in planning and executing logistics strategies for confirmed events. Develop and implement practical logistics plans for the timely, accurate and efficient movement of people, goods and equipment. Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, strengthen delivery and reduce costs. Participate in planning sessions to align logistics delivery with wider event and divisional objectives. Remain adaptable to changing operational requirements and stay informed about developments in logistics and event delivery. Client and Stakeholder Relationships Ensure logistics delivery consistently meets or exceeds client expectations across assigned projects. Maintain clear, professional and timely communication with clients and internal and external stakeholders. Provide accurate logistics information, documentation and progress updates as required. Respond promptly and effectively to client concerns or changes in logistics plans. Represent the organisation professionally and reinforce a culture of service excellence. Logistics Delivery and Systems Deliver all logistics requirements in line with agreed project timelines and client specifications. Use Tourplan, Zoho and other operational systems effectively for costing, documentation and reporting. Maintain accurate transport schedules, supplier lists, manifests and event logistics files. Coordinate contracting, itineraries, confirmations and supporting documentation for assigned groups. Monitor supplier performance and service levels against agreed standards. Improve cost efficiency without compromising quality, service or delivery. Verify the accuracy of supplier invoices, reconciliations and payments, and maintain contingency plans for each event. Administration and Financial Control Ensure logistics documentation, costings and correspondence are accurate and submitted on time. Protect the confidentiality of company and client information and comply with relevant policies and procedures. Prepare logistics and financial reports for senior operational leadership when required. Monitor event logistics expenditure against budget and report risks or challenges early, together with practical solutions. Ensure supplier payments are processed accurately and within agreed timeframes. Team Leadership and Collaboration Assist in supervising logistics staff and allocating responsibilities according to operational needs. Monitor the quality and productivity of logistics delivery across assigned events. Support the recruitment, training, motivation, performance management and development of logistics personnel where required. Promote teamwork, accountability and effective communication within the operations environment. Collaborate closely with operations, product, sales and finance teams to align event delivery. Provide support to colleagues in other business units and remain flexible when operational assistance is required outside normal office hours. Supplier Relationships Build and maintain strong working relationships with logistics suppliers and service providers. Negotiate and secure competitive rates and service levels that support successful event delivery. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of supplier products, capacity, service quality and reliability. Source new logistics partners and solutions where required. Review supplier performance after each event and address concerns constructively. Learning and Development Continuously build industry and product knowledge through relevant seminars, conferences, trade shows, workshops and educational events. Keep abreast of emerging trends, products and best practices within travel, logistics, sports and events. Requirements Minimum Requirements Matric / Grade 12. Proven experience in tour operations and logistics. Demonstrated experience establishing new operational procedures and systems, preferably within an events-services environment. Experience identifying and implementing training requirements. Experience designing and implementing new processes across a global or multi-market environment. Proficiency in Tourplan, Zoho and related operational, costing, documentation and reporting systems. Key Competencies Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to protect agreed profit margins and manage costs responsibly. Exceptional attention to detail and consistently high levels of accuracy. A positive, flexible and highly organised approach to work. Confident client and stakeholder management, including the ability to manage expectations professionally. Sound judgement, proactive problem-solving and the ability to prioritise multiple competing demands. A collaborative leadership style, with clear communication and a strong sense of accountability. Working Hours and Availability The role may require extended working hours during the lead-up to event or tour departures. Weekend and public-holiday work may be required according to operational demands. Flexibility to assist outside normal office hours is essential when urgent operational support is needed.