GROUP LOGISTICS AND PROCUREMENT MANAGER

Job Summary:
The Group Logistics and Procurement Manager is a senior leadership role responsible for directing and optimizing all logistics, supply chain, and procurement activities across the Japan Motors Trading Company Group. This role oversees the end-to-end movement of goods—including vehicles, spare parts, and Canon products—from international suppliers to customers, ensuring timely imports/exports, efficient warehousing, cost-effective transportation, and strict compliance with regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will lead a team, drive strategic supply chain initiatives, and foster strong relationships with suppliers, shipping lines, and clearing agents to support the Group's business objectives across West Africa.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Logistics & Supply Chain Management

• Lead the Group in planning and managing all import and export shipments, ensuring timely delivery and clearance at ports to avoid penalties and demurrage charges.
• Plan and direct the transportation, warehousing, and distribution of all goods, including brands of vehicles, spare parts, Canon products, and other inventory.
• Optimize inventory management, transportation, and warehousing processes to minimize costs while maintaining service excellence.
• Manage inventory levels and ensure the accuracy of stock records across all Group entities.
• Evaluate and optimize supply chain management activities and procedures across the Group to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

2. Procurement & Vendor Management

• Lead the Group in all freight processes, ensuring tenders are completed within given deadlines.
• Oversee vendor selection and management to ensure reliable service, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, shipping lines, carriers, and clearing agents, and negotiate favorable terms and conditions.
• Liaise with Divisional VPs and the Internal Auditor to establish, implement, and enforce robust procurement policies, processes, and internal controls across the Group.
• Monitor the quality, quantity, cost, and efficiency of the movement and storage of goods.

3. Strategic Planning & Performance Management

• Lead the logistics team in planning and executing supply chain strategies aligned with Group objectives.
• Evaluate team performance against established KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with Sales and Parts Departments to accurately forecast demand and manage supply chain risks effectively.
• Utilize data analytics to drive decision-making, improve operational performance, and identify areas for continuous improvement.

4. Compliance & Regulatory Adherence

• Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and industry standards related to transportation, logistics, and customs clearance.
• Ensure adherence to Ghana Customs regulations and other relevant statutory requirements.

5. Market Research & Business Intelligence

• Undertake market research to understand the vehicle import industry, including trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities.

6. Team Leadership & Development

• Mentor, develop, and manage logistics staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and professional growth.

7. Additional Duties

• Perform other duties as directed by the Group CEO.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Advanced Degree: A Master of Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent advanced degree is highly beneficial.
• Professional Certifications: Relevant certifications including but not limited to:
  • Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) – Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
  • Logistics Management Professional (LMP) – National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA)
  • Ghana Customs Proficiency Certificate
• Experience: Minimum of fifteen (15) years of post-bachelor's degree proven work experience in logistics, supply chain management, or procurement.
• Industry Exposure: Solid foundation in shipping lines and port clearance operations, including supply chain management, transportation, warehousing, and inventory control.
• Travel: Willingness and ability to travel regularly to West African countries.

Key Competencies & Skills:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and execute long-term supply chain and procurement strategies aligned with business goals.
• Leadership: Strong people management and mentoring skills with the ability to lead and inspire a team.
• Negotiation: Excellent negotiation skills with suppliers, shipping lines, and other stakeholders.
• Analytical Skills: Strong data analytics capabilities to drive decision-making and performance improvement.
• Financial Acumen: Understanding of cost management, budgeting, and financial performance metrics.
• Compliance Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of customs regulations, import/export laws, and industry standards.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage complex supply chain challenges.
• Organizational Skills: Exceptional planning, organizational, and time management abilities.

Working Conditions:

• Office-based environment with regular field visits to ports, warehouses, and other operational sites.
• Frequent travel to West African countries to oversee logistics operations and build relationships with partners.
• High-pressure environment requiring the management of multiple priorities and deadlines.