.png)
Stock Controller – Transpharm Pretoria: A Comprehensive Overview of the Role and Responsibilities
The pharmaceutical industry is one of the most dynamic and essential sectors of the global economy, with a significant impact on health, wellness, and quality of life. Within this sector, logistics and inventory management play a critical role in ensuring that the right medicines are available at the right time, in the right quantities, and in the right condition. One of the key positions that help ensure these objectives are met is the Stock Controller. At Transpharm in Pretoria, this role is particularly important as it directly impacts the smooth functioning of the distribution center and the overall efficiency of the supply chain process. This article explores the responsibilities, qualifications, skills, and other essential aspects of the Stock Controller position at Transpharm Pretoria, a role that contributes greatly to the success of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Introduction to Transpharm and Its Mission
Transpharm is a prominent player in the pharmaceutical industry, offering a wide range of healthcare products across South Africa. As part of its ongoing commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical distribution, Transpharm operates with a focus on providing timely and accurate distribution services for medications, medical supplies, and healthcare products. Its facilities, particularly in Pretoria, are crucial in maintaining efficient stock management and meeting the stringent requirements of the pharmaceutical sector.
In order to uphold these standards, Transpharm requires skilled professionals to manage the complex logistics of inventory management. The Stock Controller position is key to ensuring that products are handled and distributed in compliance with regulations and industry best practices.
Purpose of the Stock Controller Role
The primary purpose of the Stock Controller role is to oversee the efficient management of stock within the Transpharm distribution center in Pretoria. This includes ensuring that stock levels are optimal, preventing damage to products, and maintaining compliance with both internal policies and external regulations. The Stock Controller is responsible for the entire inventory process, from receiving stock to storing it and ensuring that it is delivered to the appropriate destinations on time.
Key responsibilities of the Stock Controller include:
Overseeing Staff: The Stock Controller is tasked with supervising a team of warehouse staff and ensuring that all tasks are carried out efficiently and in line with company policies. This involves providing leadership and guidance, ensuring high productivity, and addressing any issues that may arise on the floor.
Implementing Stock Control Strategy: The Stock Controller plays a significant role in executing the stock control strategy, which involves managing the flow of goods through the warehouse, ensuring proper inventory rotation, and minimizing the risk of stockouts or overstocking.
Cycle Count Execution and Monitoring: Stock Controllers are responsible for overseeing the regular cycle counts of inventory, ensuring that stock levels are consistently tracked, and investigating any discrepancies. These counts are critical for maintaining accurate stock records and identifying potential issues early.
Ensuring Stock Levels and Preventing Damages: One of the Stock Controller’s main objectives is to maintain optimum stock levels within the warehouse to meet demand without overstocking. In addition, they must monitor storage conditions to prevent stock damage and ensure that products remain in saleable condition.
Monitoring Stock on Hold: The Stock Controller must ensure that no stock is left on hold without proper justification. Stock on hold could indicate issues such as damaged goods, returns, or stock discrepancies, and the Stock Controller must take appropriate action to resolve these situations.
Ensuring Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations: A critical part of the Stock Controller’s duties is to ensure that the warehouse staff adhere to occupational health and safety regulations. This involves ensuring that the work environment is safe, that proper procedures are followed, and that warehouse practices comply with industry standards.
Executing Stock Takes and Ensuring Preparedness: Biannual stock takes are a vital part of the stock management process. The Stock Controller is responsible for ensuring that all preparations for stock takes are made in advance, that the count is completed efficiently, and that any discrepancies are investigated and resolved.
Job Requirements and Qualifications
To be eligible for the Stock Controller role at Transpharm, candidates must meet specific educational and experiential requirements. Below are the key qualifications and skills necessary for the position:
1. Educational Requirements:
Grade 12 (Matric): The minimum educational requirement for the Stock Controller role is a Grade 12 qualification, which provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for managing inventory and overseeing warehouse operations.
2. Experience Requirements:
Previous Experience in a Similar Environment: While not always a mandatory requirement, previous experience working in a warehouse or stock control role, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, would be advantageous. This experience equips candidates with a better understanding of the intricacies of stock management, pharmaceutical regulations, and industry best practices.
3. Knowledge and Skills:
Strong Communication Skills: Since the Stock Controller will be interacting with various team members and supervisors, strong oral and written communication skills are essential for conveying instructions, reporting issues, and ensuring that all staff are aligned with operational objectives.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyze inventory data, identify discrepancies, and address issues quickly is critical for maintaining stock accuracy. The Stock Controller must also be able to assess complex situations and make informed decisions to resolve problems.
Computer Literacy: Proficiency in computer systems, particularly with tools like G Suite (Google Workspace), is required to manage inventory data, communicate with team members, and track stock movements.
Attention to Detail: The Stock Controller must have a keen eye for detail, especially when managing inventory, monitoring discrepancies, and preparing for stock takes. Small errors in stock management can lead to significant problems in the supply chain.
Pharmaceutical Product Knowledge: Knowledge of pharmaceutical products is a significant advantage in the role, as it ensures that the Stock Controller understands the unique requirements of handling and storing medications and medical supplies.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
The Stock Controller at Transpharm Pretoria will be responsible for a variety of duties that encompass the entirety of inventory management. Some of the primary responsibilities include:
1. Managing Staff and Supervising Operations:
Oversee warehouse staff to ensure that all operational tasks are carried out efficiently and safely.
Enforce the implementation of supervisors’ instructions to maximize team productivity and adherence to company standards.
Train and develop staff to ensure they are skilled in handling inventory and following the correct procedures.
2. Inventory Control:
Ensure the proper storage and organization of stock within the warehouse.
Maintain an accurate inventory by monitoring stock levels and conducting regular cycle counts.
Implement the FIFO (First In, First Out) system to ensure that older stock is used before newer stock, preventing the expiration of products.
3. Stock Investigations:
In cases of inventory discrepancies, the Stock Controller is responsible for conducting investigations to determine the cause of the issue and taking appropriate corrective action.
These investigations may include reviewing stock records, checking physical stock levels, and investigating any potential errors in order processing or stock handling.
4. Stock Take Preparation:
Organize and oversee biannual stock takes, ensuring that all preparations are made in advance for an efficient and accurate count.
Ensure that all stock take procedures are followed, including checking stock levels, verifying documentation, and resolving any discrepancies that arise during the process.
5. Health and Safety Compliance:
Ensure that the warehouse environment is safe for all employees by implementing and maintaining health and safety regulations.
Enforce good warehouse practices to minimize accidents, injuries, and potential hazards.
6. Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
Regularly monitor staff performance, ensuring that all targets and productivity goals are met.
Report on stock levels, discrepancies, and performance metrics to management to ensure that stock control objectives are achieved.
Work Environment and Company Culture
At Transpharm, the work environment is one of inclusivity and collaboration. The company places a strong emphasis on fostering a diverse and supportive workplace where every employee’s unique talents and perspectives are valued. Transpharm is committed to providing opportunities for professional growth and development, and the Stock Controller role is no exception. By working in this role, candidates will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills in inventory management, warehouse operations, and leadership, all while contributing to the successful distribution of life-saving pharmaceutical products.
Conclusion
The role of the Stock Controller at Transpharm Pretoria is a critical one within the pharmaceutical supply chain, ensuring that stock is managed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with industry standards. This position requires a strong combination of organizational, leadership, and analytical skills, as well as a solid understanding of inventory management processes. The Stock Controller not only ensures smooth operations within the warehouse but also plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the supply chain, ensuring that patients receive the right products at the right time.
For those with the right qualifications and a passion for the pharmaceutical industry, this role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the healthcare sector and be part of a dynamic team at Transpharm. As such, applicants who meet the qualifications and possess the necessary skills are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 15 November 2024.
Comments