Receiving Supervisor

Purpose of the Job

The Receiving Supervisor is responsible for managing all inbound goods processes within a licensed pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution environment. The role ensures the accurate, timely, and compliant receipt of scheduled and non-scheduled medicines, medical devices, and related products in accordance with the Medicines and Related Substances Act 101 of 1965 (as amended), applicable SAHPRA regulations, Good Distribution Practice (GDP) requirements, and internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The incumbent leads and develops the receiving team, maintains temperature-chain integrity during intake, and acts as the primary point of accountability for stock accuracy and regulatory compliance at the point of entry into the warehouse.

Job Objectives

• Receiving & Verification: Manage the accurate receipt and verification of all inbound stock in line with purchase orders, batch, and regulatory requirements.
• Compliance & Quality: Ensure full adherence to SAHPRA, GDP, and internal policies, maintaining audit-ready documentation at all times.
• Cold Chain Management: Monitor temperature-controlled products and ensure compliance with cold chain standards, escalating deviations immediately.
• Stock Control: Drive stock accuracy through effective system capturing, discrepancy management, and inventory control practices.
• Supplier Claims & Returns: Manage and resolve supplier discrepancies within SLA timelines, including claims processing and returns coordination.
• Team Management: Lead, coach, and manage the receiving team to ensure productivity, performance, and compliance with HR processes.
• Health & Safety: Maintain a safe, clean, and compliant working environment in line with OHSA and company standards.

Qualifications

• Matric / National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) - Minimum requirement.
• Diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Pharmacy Assistance, or equivalent (NQF Level 5 or above) - Advantage

Experience

Minimum 3 years’ experience in a warehouse or distribution environment, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or team leader capacity. Experience in a licensed pharmaceutical wholesale or manufacturing/distribution environment - strongly preferred

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements, including SAHPRA and Good Distribution Practice (GDP).
• High attention to detail with the ability to identify and resolve discrepancies in stock and documentation.
• Proven leadership ability with strong people management and team development skills.
• Effective problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage across multiple stakeholders.
• Good planning and organisational skills to manage volumes, resources, and deadlines effectively.
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct, particularly when dealing with controlled stock.
• Proficiency in warehouse management systems (WMS) and data accuracy practices.
• Strong ability to manage SLAs and meet time-sensitive operational requirements.
• Experience in managing supplier claims processes and resolving discrepancies efficiently.