Lead our cold store operation, protecting product quality and the cold chain while running a safe, efficient and compliant facility.
About the role
Our cold stores hold fresh fruit worth millions, and every degree matters. The Cold Stores Manager is accountable for receiving, storing, stock control and dispatch, and for protecting the cold chain from the orchard to the customer.
You will lead supervisors, forklift operators and general workers, work closely with technical and quality teams, and ensure we meet food safety and export requirements. During peak season you will manage heavy volumes, extended shifts and tight shipping deadlines.
This role is ideal for an experienced operations or warehouse leader who is calm under pressure and obsessive about accuracy and safety.
Responsibilities
Manage daily cold store operations including receiving, storage, picking, loading and dispatch.
Maintain temperature control and cold chain integrity, and respond immediately to deviations.
Ensure accurate stock control, cycle counts and reconciliation in the warehouse management system.
Lead, schedule, coach and discipline staff, including seasonal and temporary teams.
Plan resources and shifts against production and shipping schedules.
Enforce health and safety, forklift and housekeeping standards and investigate incidents.
Work with the technical team on refrigeration performance, maintenance and energy use.
Maintain compliance with food safety standards such as GLOBALG.A.P., HACCP and customer audits.
Manage the department budget and report on KPIs such as stock accuracy, FIFO compliance and on-time dispatch.
Required
- Matric, with a diploma or degree in Logistics, Supply Chain or Operations Management preferred
- Five years of warehouse, cold storage or distribution experience
- Three years managing and leading teams of 30 or more people
- Stock control, FIFO and warehouse management systems
- Cold chain management and temperature monitoring
- Knowledge of OHS Act, food safety and HACCP requirements
- Labour relations, disciplinary procedures and shift scheduling
- Valid driver's licence
Preferred
- Forklift operator certificate or forklift supervision experience
- Experience in fresh produce, packhouse or export cold chain operations
- Proficiency in Excel and ERP or SAP stock reporting