Chief Operating Officer (COO) at DRYVA Logistics September, 2024

Role Overview

• The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations and ensuring the effective implementation of the company\’s strategic goals.
• The COO will manage a broad range of logistics activities, including freight forwarding / port operations (ocean, rail, air), customs brokerage, transportation, warehousing, and general supply chain management.
• This role requires a leader with extensive experience in logistics, a deep understanding of African markets, particularly Nigeria and the ability to drive operational excellence in complex environments.
• This role will also have responsibility for new business development.

Key Responsibilities

Overall 

• Manage the company’s end to end supply chain operations: Transportation, Warehousing, Freight Forwarding, Customs Brokerage, Port Operations and any new business.
• Lead the company’s portfolio growth and expansion to new markets, driving the company’s Africa expansion plans. 
• Oversee all asset acquisition projects (including but not limited to trucks).
• Grow the company’s barging and VSL, Warehousing, Freight Forwarding (Ocean, Air) and Road Transportation business and operations locally and intercountry. 
• Oversee vendor development, vendor negotiation and procurement.
• Lead the execution of clients’ logistics / supply chain projects 
• Identify and prospect new clients to facilitate the development of the business.
• Understand the legal environment and procedures of Port and Customs formalities for cargo flows, in transit shipment between Nigeria / Africa and other countries
• Understand political and economic environment of the country and region, identify opportunities and development perspectives in the country and the region
• Maintain strong competitive intelligence. 
• Liaising and engaging with Shipping lines, Customs, Port Authority, Maritime & Other service providers to deliver strong business results.
• Work with the CEO and CFO on investment analysis for new business / project / investment. 
• Further strengthen company’s data analysis and operational reporting systems to track performance and develop plans to improve on key performance indicators
• Set up / Strengthen SOPs across the supply chain function. 
• Lead multiple teams of Managers
• Lead negotiations and agreements with new clients, expanding the breadth and depth of business relationships.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by delivering reliable and efficient logistics services.
• Develop and implement quality assurance programs to enhance service delivery and resolve customer issues promptly.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, ensuring their logistics needs are met.

Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Develop and Implement Strategies: Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop operational strategies that align with the company’s vision, focusing on growth, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Process Optimization: Lead initiatives to streamline operations across all logistics functions, including port operations, transportation, warehousing, and inventory management.
• Performance Management: Establish KPIs to monitor operational effectiveness, ensuring high levels of service delivery and cost efficiency.
• Innovation & Technology: Drive the adoption of technology and best practices to enhance operational capabilities and maintain a competitive edge. This will include the development of proprietary technology as may be needed. 

Port & Terminal Operations / Freight Forwarding Management / Customs Clearance and Brokerage

• Oversee all aspects of port and terminal operations, including vessel / barge handling, and cargo management.
• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of international and domestic freight forwarding activities, from pre-shipment, shipping and clearing from the ports.
• Manage relationships with carriers, freight forwarders, agents and other key partners to ensure optimal service levels and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor and manage shipping schedules, transit times, and delivery performance to meet client expectations and operational targets.
• Ensure the effective management of customs clearance processes, including the preparation and submission of documentation for import and export activities, and develop / implement strategies to streamline customs brokerage operations, reduce delays, and minimize risks associated with customs compliance.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customs regulations, tariffs, and trade compliance requirements in various jurisdictions.

Transportation / Fleet Management, Warehousing & Inventory Management

• Fleet Optimization: Manage the company\’s fleet of vehicles ensuring high availability and optimal performance.
• Warehouse Operations: Oversee warehousing activities, ensuring efficient space utilization, inventory accuracy, and timely fulfillment of orders. Implement robust inventory management systems.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Risk Mitigation: Identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring business continuity and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Health & Safety: Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring all operations adhere to health and safety standards.
• Environmental Responsibility: Ensure the company’s operations minimize environmental impact and comply with sustainability initiatives.

Qualification / Education, Competencies & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent advanced degree is highly preferred.
• 20+ years of experience in logistics, transportation, port operations, or supply chain management, with a significant portion spent in senior leadership roles.
• Extensive Experience in African markets, particularly in West and East Africa, with a proven track record of managing complex logistics operations.
• Ability to develop and implement strategies that drive operational excellence and business growth.
• Deep understanding of logistics operations, including transportation, warehousing, port management, and supply chain optimization.
• Strong financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, P&L management, and cost control.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire large teams, fostering a culture of high performance and accountability.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
• Familiarity with logistics and supply chain technologies, including transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and ERP software.