Logistics Assistant

About the role

The Focus Group is seeking a Logistics Assistant to support freight and shipping operations, export documentation and daily coordination with transport partners. The role involves managing shipments, ensuring compliance with South African export regulations and maintaining clear communication across teams.

Key responsibilities

• Freight & Shipping: request, compare and manage estimates for local and international freight; coordinate vessel schedules, container and truck bookings; schedule placement of containers and trucks; generate purchase orders for freight, local transport and fumigation services; follow up on port stacks, sailing dates and vessel schedules; track shipments online and document status updates.
• Export Documentation & Compliance: prepare export instruction documentation for forwarding agents; apply for Phytosanitary and PPECB Export Certificates; update the PPECB Export Stock Control Sheet; generate shipment booking and confirmation advice; maintain ad‑hoc document filing on the server.
• Communication & Coordination: liaise with transporters, couriers and agents; manage the WhatsApp loading group and communicate weekly loadings; compile and distribute weekly logistics minutes; track documents via courier; arrange car hire when required.

Required profile

• 1–3 years of experience in logistics, freight forwarding or export coordination.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain or Business Administration (advantageous).
• Solid understanding of South African export processes, including PPECB and Phytosanitary documentation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong administrative, organisational and communication skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet multiple deadlines and take ownership both independently and within a team.

Required skills

• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Outlook