Transportation Supervisor

Position Summary

Department : Operations / Logistics & Supply Chain

Location : Kigali, Rwanda

Reports to : Operations Manager / Logistics Manager

Subordinates: Dispatchers, Fleet Drivers, and Logistics/Loading Coordinators

Role Purpose

The Transportation Supervisor oversees end-to-end transport and fleet operations, ensuring safe, punctual, and cost-effective movement of equipment, commercial vehicles, cargo, and spare parts. This role bridges strategic logistics planning, field dispatch, cross-functional coordination (Finance, Commercial, and Operations), driver team supervision, and regulatory compliance across Uganda and the wider East African transit corridors.

Key Responsibilities

3.1 Fleet Dispatch & Transport Operations

Formulate and implement daily vehicle routing, cargo scheduling, and equipment transit plans to meet delivery commitments efficiently. Supervise real-time vehicle tracking, turnaround times, and field logistics execution, handling transit roadblocks, route bottlenecks, and mechanical breakdowns promptly. Establish and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for cargo lashing, loading/offloading, transit inspections, Proof of Delivery (POD) signing, and document reconciliation. Coordinate with third-party logistics (3PL) providers and outsourced transporters to manage overflow capacity and specialized haulage.

3.2 Workforce Leadership & Fleet Maintenance

Lead, dispatch, and evaluate fleet drivers and field operational staff, setting clear performance benchmarks and productivity targets. Organize regular driver safety briefings, defensive driving sessions, and customer service orientations to mitigate transit risks and maintain professional standards. Monitor vehicle preventive maintenance schedules, routine roadworthiness inspections, tyre management, and fuel reconciliation to reduce operational downtime and control fleet depreciation. Manage driver attendance, shift rotations, travel allowances, and conduct in alignment with company policies and labor standards.

3.3 Cost Optimization, Commercial Support & Reporting

Calculate and monitor granular transportation cost metrics (per-kilometer costs, fuel burn rates, toll charges, escort fees, and driver allowances). Collaborate with commercial and sales teams on transport cost projections, feasibility studies, and execution plans for project cargo, heavy equipment, and bulk logistics contracts. Prepare and present weekly and monthly operational dashboards covering On-Time Delivery (OTD), fleet utilization rates, fuel variances, and incident logs.

3.4 HSE, Regulatory Compliance & Stakeholder Relations

Enforce strict compliance with Ugandan traffic regulations, axle-load limits, transit documentation, and heavy equipment transport permits. Ensure all fleet assets maintain valid insurance policies, statutory motor vehicle inspections, operational licenses, and environmental/safety permits. Act as the frontline liaison with traffic authorities, police units, highway revenue checkpoints, customs transit clearance points, and client site safety officers to resolve operational delays.

4. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

On-Time Delivery (OTD): on scheduled client deliveries and internal transfer orders. Safety & Incident Rate: Zero major preventable road accidents; maintain low traffic violation and cargo damage rates. Cost & Fuel Control: Fleet fuel variance and third-party transport expenses managed within of allocated operational budgets. Fleet Availability: Fleet uptime and scheduled maintenance adherence . Documentation Compliance: timely collection, verification, and system logging of Proof of Delivery (POD) and transit waybills within 48 hours of trip completion.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications

5.1 Education & Academic Background

Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial & Organizational Psychology, or a related field. Master of Business Administration (MBA) coursework or professional certifications in Financial Management / Logistics is an added advantage.

5.2 Professional Experience

A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in transport, fleet operations, or logistics distribution, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or team lead capacity. Direct exposure to commercial vehicles, heavy machinery/trucks, oil & gas distribution, or project cargo transport operations is strongly preferred. Proven track record in supervising frontline field teams, managing budgets, and optimizing route logistics.

5.3 Technical Skills & Certifications

Driving Credentials: Possession of a valid Ugandan driving licence. Background Clearance: A clear criminal record with valid police clearance/certificate of good conduct. Digital Literacy: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, formula modeling, and reporting); familiarity with GPS vehicle tracking systems, fleet telematics, and CRM/ERP platforms. Languages: Full professional proficiency in written and spoken English, alongside native fluency in Luganda (Swahili proficiency is an added benefit).

5.4 Core Competencies

Decisive Operational Problem-Solving: Proven capability to handle high-pressure transport emergencies, roadside challenges, and transit negotiations effectively. Commercial & Financial Acumen: Strong cost-control mindset with an understanding of operational budgeting and resource allocation. Leadership & Accountability: High integrity, proactive communication, and commitment to enforcing workplace safety and compliance standards.

Applications should be sent to: deborahkanimba@gmail.com

Deadline: 11/12/2026