ERIC LARA
Midrand,South Africa
Summary
Results-driven Supply Chain & Logistics Operations professional with over 10 years’ experience across FMCG (British American Tobacco), telecommunications distribution (Vodacom), and manufacturing environments, with strong alignment to pharmaceutical logistics and distribution operations. Proven expertise in managing end-to-end supply chain operations, including import clearance, warehousing, inventory management, order fulfilment, distribution, transportation, and reverse logistics, in compliance with GDP (Good Distribution Practice), regulatory, quality, and security standards. Highly experienced in SAP ERP systems, including inventory management programs, P2P processes, material master data, and reconciliation processes, with strong capability as a Subject Matter Expert (SME). Recognized for driving inventory accuracy, OTIF performance, cost optimization, and operational excellence, while leading cross-functional teams across Planning, Finance, Commercial, Quality, and Logistics stakeholders.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Warehouse Manager
FuxionO – Vodacom Supply Chain (FMCG / Telecom)
Midrand
05.2025 - 03.2026
- Led end-to-end logistics and distribution operations including goods receipt, storage, order management, distribution, and reverse logistics
- Ensured operations were conducted in a secure, compliant, and cost-efficient manner aligned to GDP principles
- Held accountability for inventory management program, including:
- Cycle counts, stock takes, and full inventory counts
- ERP vs physical stock reconciliation
- Stock status management (saleable, quarantine, destruction)
- Acted as SAP/ERP Subject Matter Expert (SME):
- Managed inventory transactions and master data accuracy
- Supported P2P processes and system issue resolution
- Led and monitored key KPIs, including:
- OTIF (On Time In Full)
- Inventory accuracy
- Order fulfilment and service levels
- Directed cross-functional S&OP alignment across Planning, Finance, Commercial, Customer Service, and Quality teams
- Managed 3PL and logistics partners, including SLA tracking, KPI reviews, and corrective actions
- Led returns, recalls, and destruction processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements
- Managed distribution budgets, including spend tracking, variance analysis, and cost optimisation
- Oversaw a team of 35 employees, conducting:
- Optimised space utilisation by rearranging warehouse layout.
- Performance appraisals
- Coaching and development
- Led continuous improvement initiatives, increasing efficiency and service delivery
- Enforced strict adherence to quality standards, enhancing brand reputation.
- Maintained clean work environment, promoting effective workflow and reducing hazards.
- Developed contingency plans, minimising disruption during peak periods or unforeseen events.
- Used trend data and financial forecasts to establish accurate budgets aligned with operational needs.
Warehouse & Distribution Supervisor
Fuchs Lubricants South Africa (Manufacturing / FMCG)
Isando, South Africa
07.2022 - 09.2024
- Managed inbound/import and outbound/export logistics, ensuring customs compliance and accurate documentation
- Coordinated import clearance processes, working closely with clearing agents and transport providers
- Ensured availability of raw materials and finished goods, supporting production continuity
- Played a key role in S&OP processes, aligning supply, production, and demand
- Led inventory control processes, including cycle counts, ERP reconciliation, and variance resolution
- Monitored and improved KPIs:
- OTIF delivery performance
- Inventory accuracy
- Stock availability and service levels
- Collaborated with Finance teams on:
- Inventory valuation
- Reconciliation and adjustments
- Budget tracking and reporting
- Managed 3PL providers, ensuring SLA compliance and performance improvement
- Supported budget planning, cost tracking, and variance reporting
- Led returns, damaged goods, and compliance processes, ensuring audit readiness
- Supervised 32 employees, conducting:
- Performance appraisals
- Training and development
- Implemented stock rotation practices to minimise waste from expired goods.
- Loaded vehicles using best practices to avoid over-weight or balance issues.
- Monitored employee performance against set targets, endorsing a results-driven work culture.
- Conducted regular safety drills for improved warehouse safety standards.
Warehouse & Logistics Supervisor
Sappi (Manufacturing Environment)
Nelspruit, Mpumalanga
01.2019 - 06.2022
- Managed inbound raw materials, warehousing, and outbound distribution operations
- Ensured continuous supply of raw materials to production lines
- Led cross-functional S&OP coordination, aligning planning, production, and logistics
- Managed inventory control framework, ensuring:
- High inventory accuracy
- ERP vs physical reconciliation
- Monitored and improved KPIs, including OTIF, inventory accuracy, and cost efficiency
- Managed transport providers and 3PL partners, optimizing cost and performance
- Supported logistics budgeting and cost control initiatives
- Led continuous improvement projects to enhance operational efficiency
- Conducted team leadership, performance management, and coaching
- Collaborated with sales teams, aligning supply chain activities to demand forecasts.
- Achieved timely delivery with careful route planning and scheduling.
- Oversaw maintenance of warehouse equipment, ensuring minimal downtime disruptions.
Purchasing & Inventory Control Assistant (Import/Export)
Voestalpine AG
Isando, Gauteng
10.2017 - 12.2018
- Managed international procurement and import/export logistics
- Ensured compliance with customs regulations, HS codes, and tariffs
- Coordinated shipments, vessel bookings, and documentation (BOL)
- Maintained ERP material master and inventory accuracy
- Liaised with clearing agents, suppliers, and transport providers
- Ensured availability of raw materials for operations
- Advised procurement team on re-ordering levels based on historical data trends which helped avoid overstocking scenarios.
- Developed supplier relationships to facilitate smooth supply chain operations.
- Streamlined warehouse operations for improved efficiency through the implementation of a new barcode system.
- Assisted in budget preparation by providing accurate inventory data.
- Managed product returns to ensure quick resolution and minimise loss.
- Regularly audited warehouse storage areas, maintaining orderliness and easy access to items.
Supply & Demand Planner (S&OP & Distribution Planning)
Air Liquide
Alrode, Gauteng
01.2014 - 09.2017
- Led demand and supply planning, playing a key role in S&OP processes
- Developed demand forecasts and supply plans aligned to operational capacity
- Coordinated with procurement, manufacturing, and logistics teams to ensure supply continuity
- Managed planning KPIs:
- Forecast accuracy
- Fill rate
- Service levels
- Inventory performance
- Balanced inventory levels vs demand variability
- Coordinated transport planning and distribution schedules
- Identified supply risks and implemented mitigation strategies
- Delivered reports and insights for management decision-making
- Facilitated cross-functional communication to align production schedule with sales forecast.
- Created detailed reports on inventory status for management review and decision making.
Inventory Controller (FMCG)
British American Tobacco (BAT)
Boksburg, Gauteng
01.2011 - 12.2013
- Managed inventory in a high-volume FMCG environment, ensuring stock accuracy and availability
- Led stock processes:
- Daily cycle counts
- Weekly/monthly stock takes
- Annual full stock counts
- Performed SAP reconciliation of physical vs system inventory, resolving variances
- Worked with Finance teams on:
- Inventory valuation
- Stock adjustments and reporting
- Month-end reconciliation
- Collaborated with Procurement teams to align supply with stock levels
- Worked with Operations teams to ensure:
- Accurate receiving and dispatch
- FIFO/FEFO compliance
- Managed stock movements, transfers, and replenishment
- Investigated stock losses, damages, and discrepancies
- Supported distribution and order fulfilment processes
- Handled damaged goods claims, facilitated quick replacements or refunds.
- Coordinated with sales team for better understanding of customer demands, improved inventory planning accordingly.
- Investigated missing items, discrepancies and losses.
Logistics Intern
Western Gauteng Transport Council
Randfontein, Gauteng
01.2010 - 12.2010
- Supported transport planning and logistics coordination
- Managed municipal vehicle fleet, including:
- Vehicle allocation
- Usage logs and trip records
- Maintenance scheduling and compliance
- Monitored fleet performance, fuel usage, and operational efficiency
- Ensured compliance with transport regulations and safety standards
- Maintained fleet and logistics records for audit purposes
Education
Grade 12 - Business
Jordan High School
Vereeniging12.2005
National Diploma - Supply Chain (Logistics)
Vaal University of Technology
Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng 01.2007 - 09.2010
Leadership Culture Programme - Leadership
Redpoint
Johannesburg, Gauteng 06.2023 - 07.2024
Certified Supply Chain Professional - Supply Chain
APICS
Johannesburg, Gauteng 11.2025 -
Skills
- SAP (WM, IM, EWM, S/4HANA)
- Oracle ERP Microsoft Dynamics 365
- Sage WMS Syspro
- Advanced Excel Power BI
- Lean warehousing techniques
- Process improvement orientation
- Forklift operation certification
- Health and safety certification
- Warehouse management system proficiency
- Demand forecasting
- Budget controls and reporting
- Procurement oversight
- Lean Six Sigma principles
- RFID technology
Certification
- Certified Supply Chain Professional (In Progress)
- Higher Certificate in Supply Chain (In Progress)
- Leadership Culture Programme (NQF 5) June 2023 to June 2024
CORE COMPETENCIES
- End-to-End Logistics & Distribution Operations
- GDP Compliance & Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Standards
- Import / Export & Customs Compliance (HS Codes, Tariffs, VAT)
- Warehousing & Inventory Management Programs
- SAP ERP (WM, IM, EWM, S/4HANA) & Master Data (Material Master, IDOC)
- S&OP (Sales & Operations Planning) Leadership
- Supply & Demand Planning Integration
- Inventory Reconciliation (ERP vs Physical Stock)
- KPI Management (OTIF, Inventory Accuracy, Fill Rate, Forecast Accuracy)
- 3PL / LSP & Clearing Agent Management
- Budgeting, Cost Control, Forecasting & Variance Reporting
- Vendor Invoice Validation & P2P Process Management
- Returns, Recalls & Destruction Processes
- Product Integrity, Batch/Lot Traceability & Serialization
- Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
- Project Management & Cross-Functional Leadership
- People Management, Coaching & Performance Appraisals
Timeline
Certified Supply Chain Professional - Supply Chain
APICS
11.2025 -
Warehouse Manager
FuxionO – Vodacom Supply Chain (FMCG / Telecom)
05.2025 - 03.2026
Leadership Culture Programme - Leadership
Redpoint
06.2023 - 07.2024
Warehouse & Distribution Supervisor
Fuchs Lubricants South Africa (Manufacturing / FMCG)
07.2022 - 09.2024
Warehouse & Logistics Supervisor
Sappi (Manufacturing Environment)
01.2019 - 06.2022
Purchasing & Inventory Control Assistant (Import/Export)
Voestalpine AG
10.2017 - 12.2018
Supply & Demand Planner (S&OP & Distribution Planning)
Air Liquide
01.2014 - 09.2017
Inventory Controller (FMCG)
British American Tobacco (BAT)
01.2011 - 12.2013
Logistics Intern
Western Gauteng Transport Council
01.2010 - 12.2010
National Diploma - Supply Chain (Logistics)
Vaal University of Technology
01.2007 - 09.2010
Grade 12 - Business
Jordan High School