Branch Manager – Road Freight & Logistics

Company: Qetello Holdings
Location: Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa
Job Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Employment Equity: EE/AA and Non-EE/AA Applicants Welcome

Lead a High-Performing Logistics Operation in Polokwane

Qetello Holdings is recruiting on behalf of a respected national road freight and logistics company that has built a strong reputation for operational excellence, customer service, and reliable transport solutions across South Africa.

We are seeking an experienced and results-oriented Branch Manager to take full responsibility for the leadership and operational performance of the Polokwane branch. This exciting opportunity is ideal for a seasoned logistics professional with a strong background in road freight, fleet management, and branch operations who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys leading teams to achieve exceptional results.

As Branch Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring efficient service delivery, maintaining high operational standards, driving profitability, and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of branch operations, including people management, customer relationships, financial performance, compliance, and strategic growth initiatives.

If you have a proven track record in logistics leadership and are looking to advance your career with a leading organisation in the transport sector, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

About the Role

The Branch Manager is responsible for the overall management and success of the Polokwane branch. This position requires a hands-on leader who can effectively balance operational efficiency with customer satisfaction while ensuring the branch meets financial and performance objectives.

The successful candidate will oversee daily transport and logistics activities, manage teams, maintain compliance with transport legislation, and work closely with clients and stakeholders to ensure exceptional service delivery.

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on branch performance while contributing to the broader success of a nationally recognised logistics business.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

As Branch Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring that all branch operations run smoothly, efficiently, and safely.

Your responsibilities will include:

Managing day-to-day branch operations and logistics activities.
Ensuring timely and efficient service delivery across all transport operations.
Planning, coordinating, and optimising vehicle utilisation and operational resources.
Managing fleet performance to maximise productivity and minimise downtime.
Identifying opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Monitoring workflow processes to ensure service excellence and operational effectiveness.
Implementing best practices to improve branch performance and productivity.
Ensuring all operational activities align with company standards and objectives.
Managing operational risks and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
Supporting business continuity through proactive planning and resource management.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of road freight operations and the ability to make informed decisions in a dynamic logistics environment.

Team Leadership and People Management

Strong leadership is essential for success in this role.

You will be expected to:

Lead, motivate, and inspire branch employees to achieve operational goals.
Build and maintain a high-performance culture focused on accountability and results.
Develop employees through coaching, mentoring, and training initiatives.
Conduct performance reviews and establish clear performance expectations.
Foster teamwork and collaboration across operational functions.
Identify skills gaps and implement staff development plans.
Manage employee relations and disciplinary matters in line with company policies.
Promote employee engagement and create a positive working environment.
Ensure workforce planning aligns with operational requirements.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.

The successful candidate will be an approachable and effective leader who can bring out the best in their team while maintaining high standards of performance.

Client and Stakeholder Management

Client satisfaction remains a key priority within the logistics industry, and the Branch Manager plays a central role in maintaining strong customer relationships.

Responsibilities include:

Building and maintaining relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
Ensuring service delivery consistently meets or exceeds client expectations.
Managing customer concerns and resolving operational challenges promptly.
Handling escalations professionally and effectively.
Monitoring customer feedback and implementing service improvements.
Collaborating with sales and business development teams to identify growth opportunities.
Supporting customer retention strategies through exceptional service delivery.
Representing the company professionally in client interactions and business engagements.
Ensuring transparent communication regarding operational performance and service updates.

A customer-focused mindset and strong relationship management skills are essential for this role.

Financial and Performance Management

The Branch Manager will have full accountability for branch performance and profitability.

Key responsibilities include:

Managing branch budgets and financial resources effectively.
Monitoring operational expenditure and implementing cost-control measures.
Ensuring profitability targets are achieved and maintained.
Analysing branch performance data and identifying improvement opportunities.
Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics.
Ensuring accurate invoicing, billing, and financial reporting processes.
Supporting revenue growth through operational excellence and customer retention.
Preparing performance reports for senior management.
Driving initiatives that improve productivity and financial outcomes.

Candidates should have strong commercial awareness and the ability to balance operational requirements with financial objectives.

Compliance, Risk Management and Quality Assurance

Maintaining compliance and operational integrity is critical within the transport and logistics industry.

Your responsibilities will include:

Ensuring compliance with all transport legislation and regulatory requirements.
Implementing and maintaining company policies and procedures.
Conducting operational audits and risk assessments.
Managing health and safety standards across the branch.
Monitoring fleet compliance and operational documentation.
Identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
Maintaining quality assurance standards throughout the operation.
Ensuring all staff understand and adhere to compliance requirements.
Driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational quality.

The successful candidate will have a thorough understanding of transport regulations and logistics compliance requirements.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Essential Qualifications

Grade 12 / Matric.
Valid driver’s licence (advantageous).
Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Important Links

Preferred Qualifications

Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Transport Management, Business Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

Experience Requirements

Minimum 5 years’ experience within the road freight and logistics industry.
Minimum 5 years’ experience in a management or leadership role.
Proven experience managing a logistics branch or transport operation.
Strong understanding of fleet operations and logistics planning.
Experience managing operational budgets and financial performance.
Demonstrated success in leading teams and improving operational outcomes.
Knowledge of transport legislation, compliance requirements, and industry best practices.

Skills and Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess:

Exceptional leadership and people management skills.
Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent organisational and planning capabilities.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Financial and commercial acumen.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
Customer-focused approach to service delivery.
Strategic thinking and operational planning skills.
Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail.
Ability to drive performance and achieve business objectives.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This role offers the chance to join a respected logistics organisation that values operational excellence, leadership, and professional growth.

Benefits of this opportunity include:

Working within a well-established national logistics company.
Opportunity to lead and influence branch performance.
Exposure to large-scale road freight and transport operations.
Career growth and leadership development opportunities.
Collaborative and professional working environment.
Competitive, market-related remuneration package.
Access to valuable employee benefits.

For an experienced logistics professional seeking a challenging and rewarding leadership position, this role provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career.

Remuneration and Benefits

The successful candidate will receive a competitive market-related salary package, including:

Market-related remuneration.
Medical Aid subsidy.
Provident Fund contribution.
Death and Disability Cover.
Additional company benefits in line with organisational policies.

Apply Today

If you are an experienced Branch Manager or logistics professional with a strong background in road freight operations, leadership, fleet management, and customer service excellence, we encourage you to apply.

This is an outstanding opportunity to join a reputable organisation and lead a high-performing branch operation in Polokwane.

Take the next step in your logistics leadership career and apply today.

Start Your Application Here

Branch Manager – Road Freight & Logistics | Polokwane