Logistics Manager

About the Role

We are collaborating with a prominent international manufacturing company searching for an experienced Logistics Manager to oversee and revamp the full logistics operations at a major production facility located in Germany. This leadership position requires a logistics expert with considerable manufacturing experience, a dedication to operational excellence, process optimisation, and team leadership.

You will direct the entire logistics function to ensure smooth material movement from suppliers through production to delivery, while continuously improving warehousing, transportation, inventory, and logistics workflows. This role integrates strategic planning and hands-on leadership, granting a chance to significantly influence an international manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and nurture the logistics function at the site to maintain exceptional standards across all logistics activities.
• Supervise, mentor, and grow teams across logistics, warehouse, and transportation, encouraging a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous advancement.
• Spearhead organizational changes and support the ongoing development of the logistics department.
• Establish and maintain strong collaborations with Production, Procurement, Supply Chain, Planning, Sales, Customer Service, and Finance to enable seamless operations.
• Manage all inbound and outbound logistics, ensuring continuous material supply for production needs and timely customer deliveries with high service quality.
• Oversee warehouse operations including receiving, storage, inventory control, and dispatch processes while optimizing material flow within the manufacturing plant.
• Coordinate transportation planning and shipping schedules to enhance operational efficiency.
• Develop logistics processes that are efficient, flexible, and customer-oriented, maintaining agility, cost-efficiency, and alignment with company objectives.
• Manage transport providers and third-party logistics partners, optimizing costs and ensuring compliance with legal and safety regulations.
• Improve inventory performance by optimizing finished goods stock levels, enhancing accuracy, maximizing warehouse usage, and coordinating cycle and annual counts with Finance teams.
• Lead Lean initiatives and continuous improvement in logistics operations, focusing on warehouse efficiency, transport performance, and process standardisation.
• Support ERP system enhancements and logistics process improvements as part of strategic transformation projects.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as OTIF, delivery performance, inventory accuracy, warehouse productivity, logistics and freight costs, transport performance, picking accuracy, stock availability, and supplier delivery performance, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations, transportation legislation, customs rules, quality standards, and corporate policies.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or closely related fields; or equivalent professional certification.
• Substantial leadership experience managing logistics operations in manufacturing settings.
• Proven expertise in warehouse management, transportation, and comprehensive material flow oversight.
• Demonstrated capability in managing operational teams with effective people leadership.
• Strong familiarity with inventory control, warehouse operations, and manufacturing logistics processes.
• Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP.
• Fluency in both German and English (written and spoken).
• Availability and willingness to work on-site in the Stuttgart Region.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with SAP MM, WM, or EWM modules.
• Proficiency in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong skills in KPI reporting, operational analytics, and data-driven decision-making.
• Experience managing third-party logistics providers and familiarity with customs and international transportation legislation.

Industry Experience

• Background in Automotive OEMs, Tier 1 or Tier 2 suppliers.
• Experience in Electronics, Industrial, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, Medical Devices, or high-volume manufacturing industries.

Skills and Competencies

• Operational and strategic leadership prowess.
• Strong people management and coaching abilities.
• Excellent planning and organisation skills.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• A proactive and hands-on leadership style.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High ownership, accountability, and decision-making competence.
• Customer-centric approach and resilience in fast-paced environments.
• Dedication to operational excellence and continuous process improvement.

Why Join?

This role presents an outstanding opportunity to join a global manufacturing leader as a pivotal Logistics Manager, shaping logistics operations, leading strategic change initiatives, and guiding a high-performing team. You will play a key part in driving supply chain efficiency and improving business outcomes while advancing your career in a vibrant and internationally recognised manufacturing company.