Senior Operations Controller
First seen by Alion on Nov 6, 2026.
SUMMARY:
Senior Operations Controller – Exotics / Fresh ProduceLocation: South Africa
Industry: Fresh Produce / Export
Salary: Market Related
Availability: Immediate
POSITION INFO:
About the OpportunityAn established organisation within the fresh produce export industry is seeking an experienced Senior Operations Controller to oversee stock management and logistics operations within its Exotics division.
This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on, detail-oriented operations professional who understands the complexities of perishable exports and cold-chain logistics. The successful candidate will take ownership of the end-to-end operational process, ensuring that stock is accurately controlled and shipments are efficiently coordinated from cold-room receipt through to final customer delivery.
Minimum Requirements
- Relevant degree or diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years' experience in fresh produce export logistics.
- At least 2 years' experience in a senior operations or supervisory capacity.
- Practical experience in reefer shipping, perishable airfreight and refrigerated road freight.
- Working knowledge of PPECB, export regulations and phytosanitary requirements.
- Strong understanding of cold-chain stock control, pallet traceability and stock reconciliations.
- Experience in transport costing, freight invoice verification and logistics claims.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience with stock or trading systems.
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or a similar ERP system will be advantageous.
- Valid driver's licence.
- Fluency in English and Afrikaans.
- Oversee Exotics stock and logistics operations from cold-room receipt through to customer delivery.
- Coordinate sea, air and road freight bookings, shipment tracking and logistics service providers.
- Manage stock movements, pallet traceability, inventory records and stock reconciliations.
- Coordinate cold-room activities, including loading, inspections, repacking, labelling and shipment staging.
- Manage export, customs, clearing and shipping documentation.
- Monitor freight and logistics costs, maintain ope