Zainab Richards
Head Of Logistics And Operations
Goodwood,WC
Summary
Results driven Logistics and Operations Manager with over 20 years of experience in the fresh fruit export industry. Extensive expertise across the full export lifecycle, including documentation, finance, claims, logistics and operations management, with a strong focus on perishable supply chains. Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of global export processes, including regulatory compliance, financial control, cold chain logistics and international distribution. Proven ability to negotiate freight, manage costs and optimise processes to improve efficiency and profitability. A strong leader and problem solver, experienced in coordinating cross functional teams and stakeholders in high pressure, deadline driven environments. Recognised for delivering reliable, compliant and cost effective logistics solutions while maintaining high service levels across global markets.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
1
1
Language
Work History
Head of Logistics
JWM Asia SA (Pty) Ltd
11.2016 - Current
- Oversee and ensure compliance with all export requirements for shipments from South Africa to global markets, meeting planned ETAs and quality standards
- Coordinate closely with overseas offices, management, growers, shipping lines, freight forwarders and government authorities to ensure seamless operations
- Negotiate competitive freight rates, surcharges and free time agreements with shipping lines to optimise cost efficiency
- Maintain and distribute updated monthly freight rates to relevant markets
- Compile accurate costings and financial analyses to support the Commercial Team and ensure profitability
- Manage marine insurance declarations and related documentation
- Collaborate with regulatory bodies to remain compliant with evolving SOPs and market requirements
- Oversee DIP and EXWORKS processes, including cost tracking, invoicing and timely payments, ensuring effective P&L management
- Prepare customised reports and detailed summaries for growers and stakeholders as required
- Provide management reporting and operational insights to support decision-making
- Stay informed on industry trends and regulatory changes, sharing relevant updates across the business
- Develop, implement and maintain SOPs and SLAs, including tailored procedures for specific agents and clients
- Oversee logistics and export documentation processes, proactively minimising costs and financial risk
- Manage claims processes, including notification to shipping lines and submission of complete claims documentation
- Support QC and Commercial teams with claims by providing technical data such as temperature records and transit information
- Resolve freight queries, disputes and invoicing discrepancies with international offices and service providers
- Verify and reconcile landside and logistics related invoices against agreed costings
- Maintain daily communication with Commercial teams to ensure order fulfillment, vessel space allocation and adherence to delivery timelines
Account Manager
Contour Logistics
01.2014 - 10.2016
- Understand client requirements and provide suitable solutions to improve satisfaction and profitability
- Build and maintain strong relationships with the clients to support long term partnerships and business growth
- Implement account plans to improve service levels and overall performance
- Communicate regularly with clients to ensure their needs are met and expectations are aligned
- Review customer data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
- Handle client queries and complaints promptly, resolving issues through clear communication and negotiation
- Supervise account teams to ensure consistent service delivery and high standards
- Support customer retention by implementing effective service and relationship management initiatives
Logistics Coordinator / Vessel Planner
Capespan South Africa
01.2011 - 12.2013
- Coordinate end to end export logistics from farm to port and international destinations, ensuring efficient supply chain execution
- Liaise with growers, packhouses, transporters and freight forwarders to ensure smooth operational flow
- Manage container bookings, transport arrangements and export documentation in line with shipping and regulatory requirements
- Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, destination market standards and PPECB protocols
- Monitor stock levels, fruit volumes and maintain cold chain integrity throughout the supply chain
- Track shipments, vessel schedules and container movements, proactively resolving delays and logistical disruptions
- Manage 4 week shipping forecasts, including booking updates, capacity planning and distribution of weekly reports
- Coordinate with shipping lines for booking references, vessel planning and equipment availability
- Prepare and distribute key loading and compliance documentation (Q67 and related export documents)
- Monitor stack changes, ETAs and operational updates, ensuring timely communication to all stakeholders
- Plan and confirm loading schedules with depots, clients and logistics partners
- Identify and resolve stock discrepancies, age compliance issues and operational anomalies
- Communicate stock exceptions and ensure corrective actions are implemented promptly
- Act as a central communication link between sales, operations and logistics partners ensuring alignment across teams
- Provide regular shipment updates to clients and resolve queries efficiently
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs
- Ensure adherence to quality standards, correct loading procedures and operational best practices
Documentation Controller
Fedfa Exports
11.2001 - 12.2010
- Responsible for all assigned export documentation and queries
- Liaising with account holders daily
- Ensure full compliance with destination country regulations, customer requirements and international trade standards
- Coordinate with the PPECB, Dep of Agriculture and Shipping Lines
- Manage timely dispatch of export documents via email or courier within strict deadlines
- Maintain accurate shipment and container tracking data
- Monitor ETD/ETA updates and communicate changes to relevant stakeholders
- Resolve documentation discrepancies and amend export paperwork as required
- Liaise with customs authorities, agents and service providers to resolve queries and ensure smooth clearance processes
Education
Matric -
01-1998
undefined
01-2001
TOP STUDENT AWARD in 2000
Skills
Good communication skills
Problem solving
Negotiation
Teamwork
Logistics analysis
Data-driven decision making
Staff development
Budgeting and finance
Global logistics
Logistics functions
Logistics management
Shipping coordination
Procurement management
Certification
Department of Agriculture March 2026 March 2025
Interests
Walking, Enjoy playing strategic games and puzzles, Engage in volunteering activities
Courses
- Cold Chain Management 2004 - 2005
- Agri Academy, Cape Town National Diploma (NQF-4)
- TOP STUDENT AWARD from FPEF TOP OF THE CLASS 2005 from FSA
Timeline
Head of Logistics - JWM Asia SA (Pty) Ltd
11.2016 - Current
Account Manager - Contour Logistics
01.2014 - 10.2016
Logistics Coordinator / Vessel Planner - Capespan South Africa
01.2011 - 12.2013
Documentation Controller - Fedfa Exports
11.2001 - 12.2010
Achievers School of Business - ,
Kasselsvlei High School - Matric,