Operating Officer - Distribution

The Operating Officer – Distribution is
responsible for overseeing and optimising the full distribution, supply chain,
and operational backbone of the Group’s optometric and audiology network. This
role ensures seamless integration across supply chain, IT systems, product
management, warehousing, logistics, and financial control, supporting the
commercial success of all franchisees and retail operations.

Responsibilities

·         Develop and
implement the Distribution Division’s strategic plan aligned to the Group’s
operational and growth objectives.

·         Lead and
coordinate the activities of IT, Operations, Brand & Product, and Finance
departments to achieve integrated and efficient business performance.

·         Drive
innovation in distribution models, supplier partnerships, and technology
platforms to support future expansion into new markets.

·         Represent
the Distribution Division at Executive level, contributing to group -wide
strategy, performance reviews, and governance.

·         Oversee the
full product supply chain — from supplier negotiations and imports to
in -country distribution and cross -border logistics.

·         Ensure
reliable and cost -effective product availability to all franchisees and retail
outlets, including neighbouring and emerging African markets.

·         Optimise
warehousing, stock management, and order fulfilment processes, ensuring
alignment with ISO and quality management standards.

·         Drive
continuous improvement and efficiency in operations, logistics, and customer
call centre performance.

·         Oversee new
product and brand introductions, ensuring relevance, quality, and alignment
with Group strategy.

·         Support the
Head of Brand & Product in managing and building supplier relationships,
and clinical quality standards in both optometry and audiology.

·         Drive
product pricing strategies that balance competitiveness, margin integrity, and
franchisee sustainability.

·         Partner
with the Head of IT to ensure robust, secure, and efficient systems for
inventory control, order processing, distribution tracking, and reporting.

·         Champion
data -driven decision -making, digital transformation, and system automation to
enhance operational agility and transparency.

Requirements

·         Grade 12

·         Bachelor’s
degree in supply chain management, Operations, Business Administration, or
related field.

·         Minimum 8 –
10 years’ experience in senior operational, logistics, or distribution
management roles, preferably within retail, FMCG, or healthcare sectors.

·         Proven
experience in leading multidisciplinary teams across supply chain, IT, and
finance functions.

·         Strong
understanding of import/export regulations, supplier negotiations, and
cross -border trade.

·         Demonstrated
ability to drive transformation, cost optimisation, and system integration at
scale.