Head of Storage and Supply Chain Optimisation

WhiteCrow Research is recruiting on behalf of our client who operates within the Energy sector. We are actively looking for a
Head of Storage and Supply Chain Optimisation (Nairobi- Kenya)
as below:

Job Purpose

The Head of Storage and Supply Chain Optimisation (Energy) is a senior leadership role responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing the end-to-end supply chain strategy for our client's Energy Business. This position oversees all aspects of supply chain operations, distribution networks, and commercial storage infrastructure to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and reliable petroleum product delivery while supporting overall business objectives and growth strategies. A critical component of this role involves managing our port-based storage facilities as a commercial enterprise, providing storage services to third-party petroleum businesses while optimizing our client's operational requirements and generating significant revenue streams for the Energy Business Unit.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning and Leadership -10%

• Formulate and implement comprehensive supply chain, distribution, and storage strategies aligned with Energy Business strategic objectives
• Lead cross-functional teams to optimize supply chain performance and drive operational excellence
• Develop and execute long-term capacity planning and infrastructure investment strategies
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure supply chain effectiveness
• Present strategic recommendations and performance reports to executive leadership and board members

Cross-Entity Synergy & Integration- 20%

• Drive supply chain optimization and synergy realization across all entities within the Energy Business Unit
• Identify and implement consolidated product procurement strategies, and integrated logistics solutions
• Establish standardized processes, systems, and best practices across all Energy BU subsidiaries and divisions
• Lead cross-entity collaboration to maximize economies of scale in sourcing, transportation, and storage operations
• Develop integrated demand planning and capacity optimization strategies that leverage combined entity requirements
• Create unified supplier management programs and negotiate enterprise-wide contracts to achieve cost savings and improved service levels
• Implement shared infrastructure utilization strategies including storage facilities, distribution networks, and transportation assets

Commercial Storage Infrastructure Management- 30%

• Lead the storage arm as a commercial enterprise, managing port-based storage facilities that serve both internal operations and external clients
• Develop and implement commercial storage strategies to maximize revenue generation from third-party storage services while ensuring operational efficiency for internal requirements
• Manage storage facility operations, capacity allocation, and infrastructure maintenance across multiple locations
• Source for potential storage infrastructure to meet storage needs
• Establish competitive pricing strategies, commercial terms, and service level agreements for third-party storage customers
• Optimize storage utilization through dynamic capacity management, balancing internal operational needs with commercial rental opportunities
• Build and maintain relationships with external petroleum companies, traders, and logistics providers seeking storage solutions
• Ensure compliance with port authority regulations, maritime safety standards, and environmental requirements for commercial storage operations
• Develop and execute expansion plans for storage infrastructure based on market demand analysis and return on investment projections
• Coordinate with port authorities, shipping agents, and terminal operators to ensure seamless product handling and transfer operations
• Establish quality assurance protocols for different petroleum products and maintain product segregation standards

• Develop contingency plans for supply disruptions, emergency response procedures, and business continuity for both internal and external customers

• Supply Chain Management and Distribution Optimisation - 30%

• Oversee end-to-end supply chain operations including demand planning, procurement, logistics, and inventory management
• Optimize sourcing strategies and supplier relationships to ensure reliable supply of petroleum products
• Manage procurement processes, contract negotiations, and supplier performance evaluation
• Implement demand forecasting methodologies and inventory optimization strategies
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards across all operations
• Design and manage efficient distribution networks to across multiple market segments
• Oversee transportation and logistics operations
• Coordinate with sales teams to align distribution capabilities with market demands
• Manage relationships with third-party logistics providers and distribution partners
• Implement technology solutions to enhance distribution efficiency and customer service

Team Leadership & Development- 10%

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence
• Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations for team members
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
• Manage organizational change and transformation initiatives

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management or a business related field
• Master's degree (MBA or specialized Master's) is an added advantage
• Professional certifications (APICS, CSCMP, or equivalent) highly desirable
• Minimum 10 years of progressive and relevant experience in supply chain management, preferably in the energy, oil & gas, or petrochemical industry
• Over 5 years in senior leadership roles with P&L responsibility
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex, multi-site operations across multiple business entities or subsidiaries
• Experience with storage facility management and petroleum product handling
• Experience in strategic planning, business transformation, and operational optimization
• Demonstrated success in driving synergies and integration across diverse business units or entities
• Experience managing shared services organizations and cross-entity optimization initiatives

Critical Success Factors:

• Deep understanding of energy sector supply chains
• Expertise in supply chain planning, demand forecasting, and inventory optimization
• Knowledge of petroleum products, storage systems, port operations, and distribution infrastructure
• Experience in commercial storage operations, terminal management, and third-party logistics services
• Understanding of port authority regulations, maritime safety standards, and petroleum handling protocols
• Proficiency in supply chain management software, ERP systems, and storage management platforms
• Strong analytical skills with experience in data-driven decision making and commercial pricing strategies
• Understanding of regulatory requirements and safety standards in the energy sector and port operations
• Knowledge of petroleum product quality specifications, blending requirements, and contamination prevention

Competencies:

• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen with experience in multi-entity environments
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proven ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams across different entities and geographies
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills
• Change management and transformation leadership experience
• Results-oriented mindset with focus on operational excellence and synergy realization
• Experience in matrix management and leading virtual teams across organizational boundaries

Our Client's Values:

• Excellence - Every day, our client's team members push themselves to advance, improve and grow so they reach their full potential and make a greater impact
• Entrepreneurial - They never sit still. They are empowered to follow their ambition, take on new challenges and find ways to unlock untapped potential
• Integrity - They are open, honest, fair and hold themselves and each other to the highest standards
• Impact - They work collaboratively, internally and externally, in a common cause to advance and impact the everyday lives of people
• Responsibility - They believe in advancing an inclusive environment, giving back to the community and ensuring a sustainable future for all