Derick Opoku
Head Of Supply Chain
Johannesburg
Summary
Energetic and strategic Supply Chain Leader with over 8 years of progressive experience in logistics, operations, and supply chain planning. Proven ability to design and implement agile, compliant, and scalable supply chain systems. Recognized for turning underperforming supply chain departments into high-performing, audit-ready operations. Adept at leading cross-functional teams and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Currently serving as Head of Supply Chain for Starbucks South Africa. Open to relocation, particularly for opportunities in the Netherlands.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education
1
1
Language
Work History
Head of Supply Chain
Starbucks South Africa
Johannesburg
02.2024 - Current
- Lead strategic development and execution of the end-to-end supply chain function.
- Manage departmental budget, ensuring operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Build robust supply chain structures aligned with business growth and audit requirements.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and lead teams to peak performance.
- Oversee supplier performance, logistics, distribution, and inventory accuracy.
- Maintain regulatory and internal compliance across all supply chain operations.
- Supervised 10 staff members tasked with handling materials management, planning, purchasing, and customer service duties.
Supply Chain Planning & Operations Manager
Yassir Technologies
Johannesburg
06.2022 - 01.2024
- Designed manual forecasting tools using regression analysis to support demand planning.
- Owned the S&OP process and managed a complex portfolio of 5,000+ SKUs.
- Reduced excess inventory and improved OTIF and OSA KPIs.
- Managed six warehouses and led cross-functional planning for product availability.
- Developed analytics dashboards and led monthly budget reconciliations.
- Acted as Interim Supply Chain Manager, overseeing end-to-end operations.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
- Developed and implemented strategies to maximize customer satisfaction.
- Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
Senior Production Planner
Reckitt Benckiser
Johannesburg
01.2020 - 12.2021
- Planned production across eight lines, aligning with business and capacity plans.
- Translated demand into supply plans and led trials for new product launches.
- Introduced best practices to enhance inventory turns and supplier reliability.
- Worked with global teams to ensure factory performance met international KPIs.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
Inventory Manager
Avon Cosmetics
Johannesburg
09.2018 - 12.2019
- Managed inventory budgets and cash flow projections.
- Collaborated with finance and operations to meet inventory and cost targets.
- Created and updated regular inventory reports and records.
- Maintained sufficient inventory levels to meet customer demands at all times.
- Reduced stock discrepancies with thorough monitoring of inventory levels and timely resolution of issues.
- Maintained high levels of customer satisfaction through efficient handling of orders, prompt issue resolution, and effective communication channels with clients.
Production Supervisor
Ecolab
Johannesburg
03.2017 - 08.2018
- Resolved issues quickly to maintain productivity goals.
- Coordinated with other departments to maintain smooth and efficient product flow.
- Managed team of 20 production associates, overseeing productive production processes and meeting all deadlines.
- Optimized workflow through effective resource allocation and scheduling adjustments.
- Created an inclusive work culture that encouraged collaboration and open communication among staff members at all levels within the organization.
- Implemented safety protocols and conducted regular audits, achieving a reduction in workplace accidents and incidents.
- Enhanced production efficiency by implementing lean manufacturing techniques and reducing waste.
- Trained staff of direct labor employees to perform assembly and manufacture of specified products.
In-Service Trainee (Internship)
Ecolab
Johannesburg
02.2015 - 02.2017
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and addressing concerns promptly.
- Reduced wait times by quickly identifying customer needs and providing accurate information or solutions.
- Supported sales efforts by effectively cross-selling additional products or services based on customer needs during interactions.
- Participated in regular performance reviews, incorporating constructive feedback to enhance personal growth and development within the role.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering
Vaal University of Technology
Vanderbijl Park, South Africa 01.2025 - 12.2025
Skills
- Supply Chain Strategy & Transformation
- Demand & Supply Planning (S&OP)
- Logistics & Distribution Management
- Inventory Optimization & Cost Control
- ERP Systems (SYSPRO, SAP, Odoo)
- Budgeting & Financial Analysis
- Lean & Agile Methodologies
- Team Leadership & People Development
- Compliance & Risk Management
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- Customer service focus
- Supplier relationship management
- Operations management
- ERP systems
Supply chain analytics
Accomplishments
- Delivered $6M+ in cost savings through Minimum Order Quantity optimization.
- Reduced inventory holding from $8.6M to $6.9M in under a year.
- Achieved $870K in savings via Lean Manufacturing and yield optimization.
- Converted toll manufacturing SKUs to outsourced items, saving $30K/month.
- Successfully led ERP implementations (SYSPRO & Odoo).
Relocation
Open to relocation, including the Netherlands
Personal Information
- Nationality: South African
- Marital Status: Married
Drivers License
Code 10
Timeline
Bachelor of Science - Chemical Engineering
Vaal University of Technology
01.2025 - 12.2025
Head of Supply Chain
Starbucks South Africa
02.2024 - Current
Supply Chain Planning & Operations Manager
Yassir Technologies
06.2022 - 01.2024
Senior Production Planner
Reckitt Benckiser
01.2020 - 12.2021
Inventory Manager
Avon Cosmetics
09.2018 - 12.2019
Production Supervisor
Ecolab
03.2017 - 08.2018
In-Service Trainee (Internship)
Ecolab
02.2015 - 02.2017
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