Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
Generic
Elias Thonga

Elias Thonga

Receiving Manager
Tshwane,GP

Summary

I add value in my ability to build teams who can operate independently. I add value in having the capacity to analyze data and feedback and suggest solutions to challenging situations. I add value in being able to adapt to changing dynamic environments.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience
4
4
Languages

Work History

Receiving Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2010 - Current
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in better communication and reduced shipping errors.
  • Organized storage areas to optimize materials movements and minimize labor hours.
  • Reduced product damage by establishing thorough inspection procedures during the receiving process.
  • Verified deliveries against paperwork and contacted vendors to resolve discrepancies.
  • Implemented safety protocols to minimize workplace injuries and maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
  • Managed inbound receiving departments.
  • Maintained accurate computer records of materials weights, bill amounts, and identified variances.
  • Maintained high levels of customer satisfaction by ensuring prompt processing of returned items and swift resolution of any issues.
  • Trained and supervised staff in the accurate processing of inbound shipments, ensuring timely delivery to sales floor.
  • Implemented quality control measures throughout the receiving process to ensure merchandise met company standards upon arrival.
  • Identified areas for improvement within the receiving process, implementing changes that increased overall efficiency.
  • Conducted counts and audits of inventories to identify and resolve discrepancies in records.
  • Led team meetings focused on continuous improvement initiatives, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence among staff members.
  • Streamlined receiving processes by implementing efficient inventory management systems.
  • Analyzed data trends to forecast inventory needs accurately, preventing stockouts or overstock situations.
  • Improved employee retention by providing ongoing training and support, creating a positive work atmosphere.
  • Optimized warehouse layout to maximize storage capacity while maintaining easy access for staff members.
  • Coordinated logistics operations including scheduling truck deliveries and managing dock appointments efficiently.
  • Documented safety action plans, quality initiatives and team performance into computer system.
  • Enhanced performance of receiving dock associates through training, guidance and motivation.
  • Established clear expectations and performance metrics for employees, promoting accountability within the department.
  • Managed shipping and receiving team, overseeing training, schedules and work assignments.
  • Enhanced warehouse organization for smoother operations and improved productivity.
  • Conducted regular audits of warehouse inventory, ensuring accuracy and accountability within the team.
  • Collaborated with other department managers to develop cross-functional strategies for maximizing store performance.

Receiving Operations Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2009 - 01.2010
  • Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
  • Supervised operations staff and kept employees compliant with company policies and procedures.
  • Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
  • Empowered employees to take ownership of their responsibilities, leading to increased accountability and improved performance outcomes.
  • Facilitated smooth collaboration between departments through clear communication channels.
  • Increased profit by streamlining operations.
  • Handled staff training initiatives aimed at upskilling the workforce to meet dynamic industry demands.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by establishing clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Established positive and effective communication among unit staff and organization leadership, reducing miscommunications, and missed deadlines.
  • Implemented quality control systems to boost overall product consistency and reliability.
  • Analyzed and reported on key performance metrics to senior management.
  • Analyzed data trends to identify potential bottlenecks in operations workflow, implementing strategies to mitigate risks accordingly.
  • Managed inventory and supply chain operations to achieve timely and accurate delivery of goods and services.
  • Directed initiatives to improve work environment, company culture or overall business strategy.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors, resulting in better pricing and improved service quality.
  • Managed budgets effectively, consistently delivering projects on-time and within financial constraints.
  • Identified and resolved unauthorized, unsafe, or ineffective practices.
  • Oversaw facility maintenance, ensuring optimal functionality of equipment and infrastructure at all times.
  • Spearheaded process improvements, resulting in increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
  • Led successful change initiatives, ensuring seamless transitions during organizational restructuring efforts.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
  • Achieved higher employee retention rates by fostering a positive work environment and providing opportunities for professional growth.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers to obtain best pricing and terms.
  • Reduced turnaround time for project completion through effective resource allocation and team management.
  • Championed safety protocols to maintain a secure working environment, reducing workplace accidents significantly.
  • Implemented sustainability initiatives, reducing environmental impact.
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.
  • Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
  • Assisted in recruiting, hiring and training of team members.
  • Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Tracked employee attendance and punctuality, addressing repeat problems quickly to prevent long-term habits.
  • Observed each employee's individual strengths and initiated mentoring program to improve areas of weakness.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
  • Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
  • Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.
  • Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
  • Reduced operational risks while organizing data to forecast performance trends.
  • Monitored daily cash discrepancies, inventory shrinkage and drive-off.
  • Reduced financial inconsistencies while assessing and verifying billing invoices and expense reports.
  • Implemented innovative programs to increase employee loyalty and reduce turnover.
  • Updated and resolved incidents and managed accessorial charges objectively while maximizing profit.
  • Reduced budgetary expenditures by effectively negotiating contracts for more advantageous terms.
  • Tracked trends and suggested enhancements to both challenge and refine company's product offerings.
  • Launched staff engagement, gender diversity and cultural programs in addition to robust reporting tool that increased operational quality.
  • Supervised creation of exciting merchandise displays to catch attention of store customers.
  • Raised property accuracy and accountability by creating new automated tracking method.

Sales Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2007 - 01.2009
  • Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
  • Led a successful sales team by providing motivational coaching and performance-based incentives.
  • Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
  • Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
  • Organized regular sales meetings to review progress, share best practices, and set achievable targets for continued success.
  • Consistently met or exceeded quarterly sales targets through diligent effort and persistence in closing deals.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best pricing and terms for company profitability.
  • Overcame objections from potential clients by addressing concerns effectively and offering customized solutions based on their unique needs.
  • Developed comprehensive product knowledge, enabling tailored solutions for clients'' specific needs.

Sales Manager

Trade Centre
01.2007 - 01.2007
  • Assisted in recruiting top talent for the sales team, contributing to a high-performing work environment.
  • Collaborated with marketing teams to create targeted promotional campaigns, driving customer engagement and sales growth.
  • Provided ongoing training and mentorship for junior sales staff, fostering professional development and career growth.
  • Implemented CRM systems for better tracking of leads, improving follow-up processes and communication within the team.
  • Evaluated competitor offerings to adapt sales strategies and maintain competitive advantage.
  • Attended industry events and conventions to expain sales opportunities.
  • Improved sales forecasting accuracy, utilizing data analytics to predict market trends and adjust sales strategies accordingly.
  • Established metrics-driven sales culture, setting clear performance indicators and regularly reviewing progress.
  • Elevated brand visibility, coordinating with marketing to launch successful promotional campaigns.
  • Exceeded sales targets consistently, through strategic planning and execution of targeted sales initiatives.
  • Secured lucrative contracts with major accounts, leveraging strong negotiation skills and deep industry knowledge.
  • Enhanced sales team morale and cohesion, organizing team-building activities and maintaining open communication channels.
  • Developed competitive analysis framework, enabling proactive adjustments to sales tactics and strategies.
  • Implemented comprehensive customer relationship management strategy, improving client satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Expanded market share by identifying and penetrating untapped markets.
  • Optimized sales funnel management, enhancing lead generation and conversion rates.
  • Increased sales force productivity by introducing sales automation tools and streamlining administrative tasks.
  • Achieved significant cost reductions by negotiating better terms with suppliers and vendors.
  • Pioneered adoption of sustainable practices in sales operations, leading to recognition as industry leader in sustainability.
  • Enhanced team performance with comprehensive training sessions, focusing on product knowledge and sales techniques.
  • Conducted comprehensive market research to identify new opportunities and trends.
  • Boosted customer retention rates, establishing robust follow-up system and personalizing client interactions.
  • Negotiated partnerships with complementary businesses, creating synergies and expanding customer base.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging feedback and implementing best practices in sales operations.
  • Spearheaded launch of new products, conducting market research and guiding development team on customer needs.
  • Drove regional sales growth, implementing innovative marketing strategies and cultivating key partnerships.
  • Streamlined sales processes for efficiency, adopting new CRM tools and technologies.
  • Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
  • Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
  • Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
  • Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
  • Implemented systems and procedures to increase sales.
  • Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
  • Prepared sales presentations for clients showing success and credibility of products.
  • Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.
  • Demonstrated products to show potential customers benefits and advantages and encourage purchases.
  • Enhanced profitability by developing pipelines utilizing marketing and sales strategies.
  • Communicated product quality and market comparisons by creating sales presentations.
  • Held one-on-one meetings with sales team members to identify selling hurdles and offered insight into best remedy.
  • Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
  • Increased profit margins by effectively controlling budget and overhead and optimizing product turns.
  • Aligned company goals with customer outcomes and increased satisfaction by automating contact management systems.
  • Compiled and analyzed data to determine approaches to improve sales and performance.
  • Maintained financial controls, planned business operations and control expenses while identifying and pursuing opportunities to grow business operations and boost profits.
  • Boosted marketing, reviewed pricing strategies and expanded distribution channels to increase sales revenue.
  • Achieved established KPI for company, regional team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
  • Liaised with sales, marketing, and management teams to develop solutions and accomplish shared objectives.
  • Engaged in product training, demonstrations, consumer awareness, branding, and acquisition initiatives to raise awareness and revenues.
  • Managed revenue models, process flows, operations support, and customer engagement strategies.
  • Increased sales volume and expanded product line to new retailers, warehouse clubs and natural food chains.
  • Coached and promoted high-achieving sales and account management employees to fill leadership positions with qualified staff and boost company growth.
  • Facilitated business by implementing practical networking techniques.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Developed compelling presentation decks to gain approval for ideas and communicate results.
  • Delivered recommendations to long-term accounts to promote brand awareness to key audience.
  • Collaborated cross-functionally with headquarters, regional and other teams nationally to maintain consistent message and experience.
  • Collaborated with advertising group to create uniformity between advertising messages and retail incentives.
  • Drove sales by developing multi-million dollar contract sales.
  • Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
  • Led a successful sales team by providing motivational coaching and performance-based incentives.
  • Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
  • Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
  • Organized regular sales meetings to review progress, share best practices, and set achievable targets for continued success.
  • Consistently met or exceeded quarterly sales targets through diligent effort and persistence in closing deals.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best pricing and terms for company profitability.
  • Overcame objections from potential clients by addressing concerns effectively and offering customized solutions based on their unique needs.
  • Developed comprehensive product knowledge, enabling tailored solutions for clients'' specific needs.

Sales Manager

Game Centurion
01.1994 - 01.2007
  • Assisted in recruiting top talent for the sales team, contributing to a high-performing work environment.
  • Collaborated with marketing teams to create targeted promotional campaigns, driving customer engagement and sales growth.
  • Provided ongoing training and mentorship for junior sales staff, fostering professional development and career growth.
  • Implemented CRM systems for better tracking of leads, improving follow-up processes and communication within the team.
  • Evaluated competitor offerings to adapt sales strategies and maintain competitive advantage.
  • Attended industry events and conventions to expain sales opportunities.
  • Improved sales forecasting accuracy, utilizing data analytics to predict market trends and adjust sales strategies accordingly.
  • Established metrics-driven sales culture, setting clear performance indicators and regularly reviewing progress.
  • Elevated brand visibility, coordinating with marketing to launch successful promotional campaigns.
  • Exceeded sales targets consistently, through strategic planning and execution of targeted sales initiatives.
  • Secured lucrative contracts with major accounts, leveraging strong negotiation skills and deep industry knowledge.
  • Enhanced sales team morale and cohesion, organizing team-building activities and maintaining open communication channels.
  • Developed competitive analysis framework, enabling proactive adjustments to sales tactics and strategies.
  • Implemented comprehensive customer relationship management strategy, improving client satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Expanded market share by identifying and penetrating untapped markets.
  • Optimized sales funnel management, enhancing lead generation and conversion rates.
  • Increased sales force productivity by introducing sales automation tools and streamlining administrative tasks.
  • Achieved significant cost reductions by negotiating better terms with suppliers and vendors.
  • Pioneered adoption of sustainable practices in sales operations, leading to recognition as industry leader in sustainability.
  • Enhanced team performance with comprehensive training sessions, focusing on product knowledge and sales techniques.
  • Conducted comprehensive market research to identify new opportunities and trends.
  • Boosted customer retention rates, establishing robust follow-up system and personalizing client interactions.
  • Negotiated partnerships with complementary businesses, creating synergies and expanding customer base.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging feedback and implementing best practices in sales operations.
  • Spearheaded launch of new products, conducting market research and guiding development team on customer needs.
  • Drove regional sales growth, implementing innovative marketing strategies and cultivating key partnerships.
  • Streamlined sales processes for efficiency, adopting new CRM tools and technologies.
  • Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
  • Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
  • Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
  • Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
  • Implemented systems and procedures to increase sales.
  • Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
  • Prepared sales presentations for clients showing success and credibility of products.
  • Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.
  • Demonstrated products to show potential customers benefits and advantages and encourage purchases.
  • Enhanced profitability by developing pipelines utilizing marketing and sales strategies.
  • Communicated product quality and market comparisons by creating sales presentations.
  • Held one-on-one meetings with sales team members to identify selling hurdles and offered insight into best remedy.
  • Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
  • Increased profit margins by effectively controlling budget and overhead and optimizing product turns.
  • Aligned company goals with customer outcomes and increased satisfaction by automating contact management systems.
  • Compiled and analyzed data to determine approaches to improve sales and performance.
  • Maintained financial controls, planned business operations and control expenses while identifying and pursuing opportunities to grow business operations and boost profits.
  • Boosted marketing, reviewed pricing strategies and expanded distribution channels to increase sales revenue.
  • Achieved established KPI for company, regional team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
  • Liaised with sales, marketing, and management teams to develop solutions and accomplish shared objectives.
  • Engaged in product training, demonstrations, consumer awareness, branding, and acquisition initiatives to raise awareness and revenues.
  • Managed revenue models, process flows, operations support, and customer engagement strategies.
  • Increased sales volume and expanded product line to new retailers, warehouse clubs and natural food chains.
  • Coached and promoted high-achieving sales and account management employees to fill leadership positions with qualified staff and boost company growth.
  • Facilitated business by implementing practical networking techniques.
  • Recruited, interviewed and hired employees and implemented mentoring program to promote positive feedback and engagement.
  • Developed compelling presentation decks to gain approval for ideas and communicate results.
  • Delivered recommendations to long-term accounts to promote brand awareness to key audience.
  • Collaborated cross-functionally with headquarters, regional and other teams nationally to maintain consistent message and experience.
  • Collaborated with advertising group to create uniformity between advertising messages and retail incentives.
  • Drove sales by developing multi-million dollar contract sales.
  • Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
  • Increased sales revenue by developing and implementing effective sales strategies.
  • Maintained relationships with customers and found new ones by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
  • Built long-lasting client relationships through excellent customer service and consistent followups.
  • Led a successful sales team by providing motivational coaching and performance-based incentives.
  • Managed key accounts with strategic planning and relationship building, resulting in increased customer loyalty and repeat business.
  • Analyzed market trends to identify new business opportunities, leading to expansion into profitable territories.
  • Organized regular sales meetings to review progress, share best practices, and set achievable targets for continued success.
  • Consistently met or exceeded quarterly sales targets through diligent effort and persistence in closing deals.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and suppliers, ensuring the best pricing and terms for company profitability.
  • Developed comprehensive product knowledge, enabling tailored solutions for clients'' specific needs.
  • Overcame objections from potential clients by addressing concerns effectively and offering customized solutions based on their unique needs.

Education

Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management - Business

Regent Business College
Gauteng
11-2010

Advanced Diploma in Organisational Leadership - undefined

Tower Stone Leadership Institute
Johannesburg
01.2017

Certificate in Retail Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management
Tshwane
01.1999

Certificate in Sales Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management
Tshwane
01.1995

Intermediate Certificate of Marketing Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management
Tshwane
01.1994

Matric - undefined

Phateng Secondary School
Tshwane
01.1993

MBA - Business

Regent
04.2001 -

Skills

Leadership in stock operations

Interests

Soccer

Timeline

Receiving Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2010 - Current

Receiving Operations Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2009 - 01.2010

Sales Manager

Makro Silverlakes
01.2007 - 01.2009

Sales Manager

Trade Centre
01.2007 - 01.2007

MBA - Business

Regent
04.2001 -

Sales Manager

Game Centurion
01.1994 - 01.2007

Advanced Diploma in Organisational Leadership - undefined

Tower Stone Leadership Institute

Certificate in Retail Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management

Certificate in Sales Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management

Intermediate Certificate of Marketing Management - undefined

Institute of Marketing Management

Matric - undefined

Phateng Secondary School

Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management - Business

Regent Business College
Elias ThongaReceiving Manager