3PL Manager (Warehouse & Distribution)

Job Description: The 3PL Logistics Manager is responsible for strategically managing and overseeing all third-party logistics (3PL) operations related to warehousing, inventory management, co-packing, and distribution. This role ensures the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective flow of L'Oréal products from receipt to final delivery, aligning with the company's "Future-Fit Ready" and business growth ambitions. The manager leads a dedicated team to maintain high operational standards, foster strong 3PL partnerships, and drive continuous improvement across the logistics network.

Key Accountabilities & Responsibilities:
I. 3PL Relationship & Performance Management:

• Strategic Partnership: Develop and maintain a strong, collaborative, and results-oriented relationship with the 3PL provider(s).
• SLA & KPI Management: Define, monitor, and enforce Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for 3PL operations, ensuring adherence to agreed service levels, quality standards, and efficiency targets.
• Performance Reviews: Conduct regular business reviews with 3PL partners to assess performance, discuss improvement areas, and ensure strategic alignment.
• Contract Management: Oversee 3PL contract adherence, scope management, and contribute to contract negotiations and renewals.
• Cost Management: Monitor and control 3PL-related costs, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure budget compliance without compromising service quality.

II. Warehouse Operations & Inventory Management:

• Operational Oversight: Ensure efficient and accurate inbound receiving, put-away, storage, picking, packing, and outbound dispatch processes at the 3PL warehouse(s).
• Inventory Accuracy: Drive initiatives and work closely with the Stock Controller to maintain high levels of inventory accuracy (cycle counting, physical inventory, discrepancy resolution).
• Space Optimization: Collaborate with the 3PL to optimize warehouse layout, storage utilization, and material handling processes.
• Product Quality & Safety: Ensure compliance with L'Oréal's quality standards, safety regulations, and good manufacturing practices (GMPs) within 3PL warehouse operations.

III. Distribution & Transportation Management:

• Last-Mile Excellence: Oversee the effective management of primary and secondary distribution channels, ensuring timely, complete, and damage-free delivery to customers.
• Route Optimization: Work with the 3PL and the W&D Supervisor to optimize transportation routes and methods, enhancing delivery efficiency and reducing costs.
• Customer Service: Ensure that 3PL distribution activities meet or exceed customer service expectations, proactively addressing and resolving delivery issues.

IV. Team Leadership & Development:

• Guidance & Mentorship: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of direct reports (Stock Controller, Master Data & Co-packing Specialist, W&D Supervisor).
• Performance Management: Set clear objectives, provide regular feedback, conduct performance appraisals, and support professional growth for team members.
• Resource Allocation: Effectively allocate team resources to maximize productivity and meet operational demands.

V. Data Management & Co-packing:

• Master Data Integrity: Partner with the Master Data & Co-packing Specialist to ensure accurate and up-to-date master data within logistics systems, crucial for seamless operations.
• Co-packing Management: Oversee the planning, execution, and quality control of co-packing activities performed by the 3PL, ensuring product readiness for market.

VI. Continuous Improvement & Innovation:

• Process Optimization: Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and technology adoption within 3PL operations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Future-Fit Ready: Contribute to strategic initiatives that align 3PL operations with L'Oréal's future supply chain vision, embracing innovation and agility.
• Data Analysis: Utilize logistics data and analytics to gain insights, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimize performance.

VII. Compliance, Risk & Sustainability:

• Regulatory Adherence: Ensure all 3PL activities comply with local, national, and international logistics regulations, customs requirements, and L'Oréal policies.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify potential operational risks within 3PL processes and implement mitigation strategies.
• Sustainability: Champion sustainable logistics practices within the 3PL network where applicable (e.g., carbon footprint reduction, waste management).

VIII. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Internal Stakeholders: Collaborate closely with Sales, Marketing, Planning, Customer Service, Regulatory, IT, and Finance teams to ensure logistics operations support overall business objectives.
• Business Growth Enabler: Act as a key enabler for business growth by ensuring a robust, scalable, and responsive logistics infrastructure.

Job Requirements:

• Relevant qualifications in supply chain management, Logistics, Business, or a related field.
• 5 - 7 years of experience, min 1 year in similar position.
• Proven experience managing 3PL relationships in FMCG or similar industry.
• Strong understanding of third party logistics management and temperature-sensitive products.
• Expertise in SAP MM and SD modules for inventory and order management.
• Strong Team leadership skills.
• Familiarity with dangerous goods classifications and handling protocols.
• Ability to interpret technical inventory terminology and logistics data.
• Track record of ensuring compliance within warehousing / 3PL management.
• Department: Supply Chain / Logistics

Reports To: Physical distribution manager

Direct Reports:

• Stock Controller
• Master Data & Co-packing Specialist
• Warehouse & Distribution Supervisor