Logistics & Purchasing Manager 12 months FTC

Hybrid workingLead a significant 12-month transformation projectOur client is a major industrial distributor supplying a diverse range of infrastructure and construction products across Australia and New Zealand. Team members work across operations, warehousing, procurement, sales and customer support — united by a culture of pace, accountability, and continuous improvement. As the business evolves, it is investing heavily in operational excellence, supply chain transformation, and data-driven performance improvement. The OpportunityThis is a strategic leadership role that will drive a high-impact, 12-month transport optimisation project. As Logistics & Purchasing Manager, you’ll lead initiatives to improve fleet performance, streamline freight operations, and strengthen cost control across the national network.The role sits at the intersection of logistics and purchasing — providing visibility, accountability, and insight as state branches assume greater P&L ownership. You’ll work closely with state managers, the Head of Product Supply Chain, and other senior stakeholders to embed new ways of working that enhance efficiency and deliver measurable savings. Key Responsibilities & Objectives Strategic Priorities:Fleet Optimisation – Maximise utilisation and efficiency of the company’s own transport fleet.Cost Reduction – Deliver meaningful reductions in freight spend through smarter routing, procurement, and carrier management.Accountability & Influence – Use performance data (via Cario and Rodaro systems) to drive state-level accountability, enhance decision-making, and improve operational standards such as loading, dispatch, and scheduling.Core Activities Include:Negotiate freight rates and manage key relationships with subcontracted transport providers.Analyse inter-branch transfers and carrier selection to identify efficiency gains.Deliver actionable, data-driven insights to influence and support state managers.Collaborate with the purchasing team on selected direct and indirect procurement areas — offering scope to broaden your commercial and sourcing experience.Your Profile Required:Proven background in logistics, transport, or supply chain management.Demonstrated success in cost optimisation, performance analytics, and KPI delivery.Highly analytical, comfortable working with complex data to identify trends and drive change.Excellent communication and stakeholder-influencing skills.Preferred:Experience using logistics software platforms such as Cario or Rodaro (or similar).Exposure to purchasing or procurement activities (development opportunity provided).Experience in industrial, construction, or distribution environments.