Transportation Manager

The Transportation Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and optimizing transportation and logistics operations across Starlinks FMCG supply chain. This includes ensuring timely deliveries, minimizing logistics costs, managing fleet performance, and meeting service level agreements (SLAs). The role demands strong experience in FMCG logistics, KPI tracking, route optimization, and transporter/vendor oversight to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Transport & Logistics Operations Oversee day-to-day transportation of goods across warehouse hubs, retailers, and distribution points. Ensure timely dispatch and delivery aligned with FMCG product shelf-life and order frequency. Supervise internal fleet and third-party logistics partners to meet operational targets.
• KPI Management & Data Monitoring Define and track key transport KPIs: On-time delivery % Cost per km / delivery Fuel consumption metrics Vehicle utilization rates Trip & incident reporting compliance Analyze performance data and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency.
• Cost Control & Optimization Reduce transport and delivery costs through route optimization, fleet planning, and vendor negotiation. Manage transportation budget, fuel consumption, overtime, and maintenance expenses. Identify savings opportunities without compromising service quality.
• Fleet & Vendor Management Manage vehicle maintenance schedules, driver logs, and fleet health monitoring. Oversee vendor selection, SLA adherence, contract renewals, and vendor performance reviews. Ensure vehicle documentation, driver licenses, and legal compliance are up-to-date.
• Compliance & Safety Enforce compliance with KSA transportation regulations, driver HSE standards, and internal SOPs. Lead investigation and reporting of delivery delays, vehicle breakdowns, or safety incidents. Conduct regular driver training and toolbox talks.
• Cross-Functional Coordination Coordinate with warehouse, inventory, customer service, and sales teams to align transport plans. Act as escalation point for critical delivery issues and resolution. Ensure smooth handovers between PDI (if automotive) or warehouse teams and drivers.
• Leadership & People Management Lead and develop transport supervisors, drivers, and support staff. Set performance goals, conduct evaluations, and promote a continuous improvement culture. Foster accountability, safety-first behavior, and high service orientation across the team.
• Technology & Innovation Use Transport Management Systems (TMS), GPS tracking, and Excel dashboards to manage performance. Stay updated on logistics automation tools, fleet sustainability trends, and industry benchmarks. Support digitization of delivery tracking and trip reporting processes.

A bachelor s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is required. Professional certifications in Transport Management, Logistics, or Fleet Operations (e.g., CILT, APICS, or Lean Logistics) are preferred. A minimum of 6 10 years of progressive experience in transportation operations or logistics management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role. Proven hands-on experience in fleet coordination, route optimization, and vendor management within FMCG or fast-moving logistics environments is essential. Strong knowledge of transportation KPIs, cost control measures, and performance monitoring tools is required. Demonstrated ability to manage transportation budgets, negotiate with vendors, and implement cost-saving initiatives. Proficiency in Transport Management Systems (TMS), GPS tracking tools, and Microsoft Excel for operational and financial reporting is expected. Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and team leadership skills are required, especially in high-pressure, fast-paced delivery environments. Experience in KSA logistics regulations, driver compliance, and road safety policies is considered a strong advantage.

Technical Competencies FMCG Transport Operations Fleet & Route Optimization Budgeting & Cost Analysis TMS & GPS Utilization KPI Reporting Vendor Management Compliance & Documentation