Manager: Inbound Logistics Operations

Manager: Inbound Logistics Operations

Purpose of the role

The Inbound Logistics Operations Manager manages Lucky Star Foods' shipping and landside inbound logistics, overseeing imports of canned and raw fish containers and the inland movement of product from port to canneries, cold stores and 3PL depots. The role is accountable for controlling and reconciling inventory held in external cold storage facilities to protect product integrity and availability. As the business expands, the scope will extend to additional imported commodities and, from time to time, the export of finished goods. The role also drives ongoing process improvement and efficiency through digital, data-led ways of working.

Key Responsibilities

• Import, Export and Cross-Trade Coordination:
  • Manage the scheduling and coordination of shipments for imported, exported and cross-trade canned and raw fish, with scope expanding to additional products as the business grows.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable shipping regulations and documentation requirements across origin and destination countries.
  • Liaise with suppliers, shipping companies, and customs brokers to streamline import, export and cross-trade execution.
  • Own the end-to-end claims process across carriers, insurers, suppliers and service providers, ensuring all claims (freight, damage/quality, temperature excursions, demurrage/detention and documentation) are progressed to resolution and formally closed out.

• Transportation Management:
  • Tactical planning and execution of container removals within port free days, delivery sequencing, plug-in/yard capacity planning, and empty return management to minimise demurrage/detention.
  • Plan and schedule inland transport to match canneries and cold store intake capacity and booking windows.
  • Coordinate with transportation providers to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Inventory Management:
  • Reconcile stock between cold store reports, SAP and physical counts; investigate variances and close out corrective actions.
  • Maintain accurate inventory reporting and monitor stock ageing.
  • Manage and track stock movements from port to cold stores and canneries, and from cold stores to canneries; ensure timely SAP postings to maintain traceability and alignment between system and physical stock.
  • Manage NRCS sampling end-to-end; ensure submission of accurate sampling documentation and follow through to final product release.
  • Manage physical stock counts at cold storage facilities at financial half-year and year-end.

• Cold Storage Operations:
  • Coordinate with cold stores to align space utilisation and receiving/dispatch capacity with the inbound/outbound plan.
  • Conduct ad hoc site inspections to verify storage conditions and handling meet required standards.
  • Ensure cold chain and food safety compliance.
  • Validate cold store stock reports via cycle counts and reconciliations; investigate variances and ensure timely SAP alignment.

• Team Leadership:
  • Lead and develop a team of logistics and inventory management professionals.
  • Provide training and support to ensure team members are knowledgeable and efficient.
  • Foster a collaborative, accountable and high-performance team culture and work environment.

• Reporting and Analysis:
  • Prepare and present regular reports covering logistics performance, inventory levels, and transportation costs.
  • Analyse data to identify areas for improvement, drive process and system enhancements, and implement corrective and preventative actions that improve efficiency, visibility, and control.
  • Collaborate with other departments to align logistics operations with overall business objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in logistics, supply chain management, or a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of import regulations, transportation management, and cold storage operations.
• Experience working with shipping lines, freight forwarders, clearing agents and port authorities preferred.
• Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in logistics software and inventory management systems.
• Strong Excel skills and experience working with ERP/reporting tools (SAP and Power BI preferred).
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Tactical planning and prioritisation under pressure.
• Strong stakeholder and vendor management.
• Systems and data discipline.
• Customer-focused mindset.
• Adaptability and flexibility.