Factory Logistics Manager at British American Tobacco (BAT)

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?

The Factory Logistics Manager position is to ensure that all aspects of the Logistics processes and Systems, especially SAP, for domestic & export markets are compliant with internal and external control and statutory requirements. 

This role is becoming increasingly important as we operate as an export hub and as we rely more and more on third parties (3PLs) for the execution of the logistics function.  Managing the 3PLs to ensure products are delivered on time and in full, liaising with the Customer Facing Team (CFT) and the factory are essential to the success of this role.

The job holder will need to ensure that best practices, industry and BAT standards, local and international regulations are always complied with by all parties concerned.  As the logistics network gets more complicated, risk management and business continuity must be reviewed regularly.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Business

• Ensure that all aspects of the logistics process and systems are compliant with internal and external control and statutory requirements, BAT best practices and industry norms.
• To be the custodian for the usage of Logistics systems ensuring their integrity especially with increased reliance on 3rd parties. This relates especially but not exclusively to SAP, global freight compliance, SAP WMS, records management, EH&S etc.
• Ensure logistics costs are managed within agreed budget and unit costs are reduced through continuous improvement and innovation.
• Manage the integrity of the logistics processes, systems and products being handled to ensure Customer satisfaction.
• Ensure regular assessment of Logistics risks with the necessary mitigating and corrective measures in place.  Work closely with stakeholders to develop and maintain an up-to-date supply chain risk register and contingency plan.
• Provide expert advice and solutions to other BAT operations, functions or partners i.e. Distributors in setting up the necessary logistics standards.
• Advise stakeholders of changes in Local and International rules and regulations related to cross border product movements.  Advise status of regional Ports e.g. in terms of congestion, piracy activity etc.
• Ensure that all controls are in place and are robust enough -system and process within logistics.
• Ensure seamless leaf and materials supply to Nairobi factory working with GLP and SNO.

Leadership

• Drive a culture that ensures absolute control of the logistics processes with the necessary effective preventive and corrective measures.
• Lead the engagement with all internal and external bodies in all aspects of Logistics compliance.
• Ensure a culture of trust and partnership/collaboration is always maintained with the 3PLs.
• Lead projects and cross-functional teams as required.
• Provide training, development and coaching of the team for growth

Management

• Manage and maintain all processes and procedures relating to the efficient and secure storage, movement and delivery of BATs products to the end Customers.  Likewise, for product returns and recall.
• Ensure an efficient fleet management and transport plan is executed for the timely delivery of products to Customers.
• Ensure timely and accurate communication of shipments and their corresponding documents through regular tracking.  Advise CFT accordingly on a regular basis.
• Operate as part of an integrated management team, delivering results and escalating issues as required.  Active participation in meetings.
• Manage all the BAT on-site and off-site warehouses and inventories therein and to ensure product integrity and inventory accuracy.
• Ensure that the appropriate level of insurance is in place for all movement and storage of goods and that all claims are processed effectively.
• Carry out regular ageing analysis of BAT stocks with recommendations on obsolescence, damaged stocks etc. 
• Ensure safe and secure destruction of approved obsolescence in a responsible manner and provide destruction reports with the necessary evidence.
• Manage the relationship/collaboration with 3PL service providers to deliver expected business results through teamwork, partnerships and collaboration.
• Maintain and issue the Logistics KPI dashboard and performance reviews with continuous improvement plans.
• Ensure all records are maintained and provided as per BAT best practice and local regulations.
• Ensure annual rolling leaf supply forecast is submitted to GLP on monthly basis.
• Ensure leaf shipments are tracked on monthly basis with risks of OOS/ over stocked flagged to the business on time.
• Ensure timely application and closure on Inward processing facility with monthly tracking and reconciliations.

Relationship

• Drive the relationship with key internal and external stakeholders both locally and regionally .  
• Build and maintain an excellent relationship with 3PLs and subcontractors who are the frontline contact with end customers.
• Maintain excellent relationship with in-house and external Logistics experts/consultants to support and implement best practices e.g. Network design review.

Innovation

• Develop an environment which fosters continuous improvement and sharing of best practice ideas from within BAT and externally.
• Ensure the leading-edge developments in logistics are identified and applied as appropriate in the business e.g. ECTS, AEO etc.
• Challenge the status quo and promote innovation through 3PLs.  Manage a gain-share mechanism to foster continuous improvement and change.
• Contribute to the Kenya & Export Markets ESG agenda for sustainable growth.

EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE

ESSENTIAL

Key Success Factors

• Distribution and warehousing cost as per budget.
• Full adherence and compliance to internal and external control requirements and regulations
• 100% adherence to BAT systems policies, especially relating to usage by 3rd parties, SAP controls, EH&S, Logistics security, records management etc.
• Up to date BCP in place for domestic & export markets Logistics
• Successful application of logistics policies, standards and best practices to drive network performance improvement
• Customer satisfaction through OTIF deliveries.
• Regular logistics performance reviews and improvements to achieve business results and efficiency improvements.
• Drive and achieve planned cost savings.
• Zero out of stock on leaf and materials supply

Functional Skills Required

Leadership Skills

• High level of personal responsibility and drive for results
• Change catalysts – One who initiates and drives change with the business
• Interpersonal collaboration/ Influencing skills with internal and external stakeholders
• Effective communication skills

Analytical Skills & Problem Solving

• Advanced level ERP skills (SAP)
• Advanced level in data analytics and Excel skills
• Demonstrated ability in Risk and compliance management.
• Demonstrated ability in BCP’s management.

Education / Qualifications / Experience Required

• Degree in Commerce, Business, Finance, Engineering or any other STEM related field
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Supply chain especially Logistics (Inbound, Outbound and Warehousing)
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in running continuous improvement programs like Supply chain excellence, Integrated work systems (IWS)
• Good Interpersonal skills: Effective communication and influencing skills.