National Trade Centre Manager

About The Opportunity:

We are currently seeking a dynamic and experienced National Trade Centre Manager to join our team in Willawong, Brisbane. The successful candidate will work closely with Manufacturing, Supply Planning, Customer Service, Logistics, Demand, and Commercial Managers to provide the highest level of service to customers across the Australian trade centre network for the Marine Protective Coatings business. This role includes direct responsibility for Trade Centres and their staff in Mackay, Cairns, Newcastle, Karratha, and Kalgoorlie.

We will count on you to:

• Oversee and enhance the efficiency of Trade Centre operations to meet ANZ Distribution targets and exceed customer expectations. This involves streamlining processes, implementing best practices, and ensuring that all operations are aligned with company goals.
• Manage site services activities at the Willawong site, including work permit management and compliance audits. Ensure that all site services are conducted in accordance with regulatory requirements and company policies to maintain a safe and compliant working environment.
• Monitor Trade Centre Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through regular reviews and detailed analysis. Conduct monthly reviews to identify performance gaps, develop action plans to address these gaps, and continuously monitor progress to drive improvement.
• Control personnel and operating costs within the Trade Centres. Optimise local delivery and freight-related costs by negotiating with suppliers, improving logistics processes, and implementing cost-saving initiatives without compromising service quality.
• Lead investigations into customer complaints, develop action plans to resolve issues, and implement controls to prevent recurrence. Ensure that all customer complaints are handled promptly and effectively to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Conduct regular Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) and Quality audits on Trade Centres and transport providers. Ensure full compliance with HSE and Quality standards set by the company. Utilise incident report systems and root cause analysis to address any non-compliance issues.
• Provide strong leadership to Trade Centre teams, fostering a culture of integrity, engagement, and continuous improvement. Train and develop staff to enhance their product knowledge and customer engagement skills, ensuring they can effectively meet customer needs.
• Maintain a high standard of customer service through effective communication and coordination with Trade Centres, 3PL providers, Customer Service teams, and Commercial colleagues. Ensure that customer inquiries and issues are resolved efficiently and satisfactorily.
• Facilitate monthly Trade Centre continuous improvement meetings to identify opportunities for process enhancements and operational efficiencies. Develop and implement continuous improvement objectives to drive performance and service quality.
• Monitor and manage transport costs within the Trade Centre network. Ensure adherence to rate cards, optimize transport costs, and create purchase orders for various transport providers. Approve invoices and ensure accurate financial management.

To be successful you should have:

• Previous experience in a similar role, such as Warehouse Manager, Distribution Center Manager, or Logistics Manager.
• Proven management and leadership skills, with experience managing small teams across a large geographic area.
• Ability to inspire and motivate teams, drive performance, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Strong safety orientation with a thorough understanding of HSE regulations and standards. 
• Experience in conducting safety audits and implementing safety improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency in using SAP Logistics and other relevant software tools for order and distribution management. 
• Strong understanding of end-to-end order and distribution processes.
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with customers, suppliers, and internal teams. 
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain positive relationships.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement. 
• Ability to identify issues, develop solutions, and implement corrective actions to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
• Strong financial management skills with experience in controlling costs, managing budgets, and optimising logistics expenses. 
• Ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions to achieve cost savings.
• High levels of resilience and the ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision. 
• Adaptability to changing circumstances and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.

What’s on Offer?

Being a Global company, we have a suite of benefits we can offer than your standard permanent role and job stability:

• Career Growth Opportunities: We are committed to helping you reach your career goals. We offer training and development opportunities that open doors to your next steps.
• Company Culture: Experience a dynamic and inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration.
• Competitive Salary and Performance Bonuses: Do not settle for the ordinary. You have the potential to earn more with performance bonuses on top of your base salary!
• Tools of the Trade: We provide the tools you need to excel – a fully maintained company vehicle, laptop, and mobile phone. 
• Let AkzoNobel help you meet your health goals: Your health matters to us. Take advantage of free flu vaccinations, counselling services, and online support through our Employee Assistance Program. 
• Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy exclusive discounts on HP products, discounted private health insurance with Bupa, as well as special corporate rates for car rentals through Avis, saving you money on essential purchases and travel expenses.
• Looking for more benefits? Join us to find out more…

How to Apply:

Ready to take your career to the next level? Don't miss this opportunity to join our team at AkzoNobel. Apply now with your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you'd be a great fit for this role.