Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Workemail
Personalemail
Professionalreferences
Timeline
Generic

WARREN J VAN HEERDEN

Executive Transport Operations And Logistics Leader
Lusaka

Summary

Seasoned executive in cross-border logistics and fleet management with over two decades of experience driving operational excellence across Southern and Eastern Africa. Known for transforming complex logistical operations into streamlined, efficient systems and leading diverse teams across multiple geographies, focusing on strategic planning, cost optimization, and high-value client relations. My expertise spans end-to-end fleet operations, standardizing workflows through innovative SOP development, and data-driven performance tracking. Working collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels—workshops, finance, IT, HR, and clients—to deliver consistent, on-time transport solutions that optimize resources and exceed service expectations.
My approach as a logistical strategist balances big-picture strategy with tactical efficiency, ensuring scalable solutions that align with both organizational goals and regional demands.

Overview

2025
2025
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education

Work History

Group Head of Operations (Road Freight)

Alistair Logistics Zambia
1 2022 - Current
  • Lead operations across five regions, directing teams and coordinating with departments such as Workshops, Finance, IT, and HR
  • Spearheaded cost and process optimization initiatives, enhancing fleet efficiency and reducing operational expenses
  • Developed SOPs that improved network standardization, quality, and workflow
  • Implemented monthly reporting to track performance and address bottlenecks

General Operations Manager

J & J Transport
09.2018 - 11.2021
  • Managed load capacity planning and fleet operations for 10 fleets, collaborating with stakeholders to service Zimbabwe, Zambia, DRC, and Malawi
  • Improved turnaround times and productivity, consistently meeting or exceeding KPIs
  • Automated reporting systems for customer tracking, enhancing client communications

Deputy General Operations Manager

J & J Transport
06.2017 - 08.2018
  • Oversaw management of +1200 vehicles for import/export logistics in Mozambique and neighboring regions
  • Established strong relationships with clients, aligning services with cross-border requirements
  • Coached junior managers, increasing team efficiency and operational performance

Operations Manager

J & J Transport
05.2013 - 05.2017
  • Built cohesive teams that delivered on KPIs, enhancing operational safety, efficiency, and client satisfaction
  • Worked closely with sub-contractors, port agents, and customs officials, streamlining workflows and meeting operational targets

Operations Manager

Transparency.Com
07.2011 - 02.2012
  • Managed a print and copy shop, trained junior staff, and established strong client relationships
  • "Respected by peers for a hands-on approach, consistently leading by example." _ (Carl Edem Honu, Managing Director) _

Education

Post Graduate Diploma - Enterprise Management

University of Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa
01.2003 - 11.2003

Bachelor of Social Sciences - Psychological Studies

University of Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa
01.2000 - 01.2002

Skills

Strategic Planning & Execution

Cross-Border Logistics & Fleet Management

Cost Optimization & Process Improvement

Team Leadership & Development

Customer Relations & Stakeholder Engagement

SOP Development & Workflow Standardization

Problem-Solving

Strategic Planning

Workemail

warren.vanheerden@alistairgroup.com

Personalemail

warrenjvh@gmail.com

Professionalreferences

  • Transparency.Com, Carl Edem Honu, Managing Director, "Warren was a calm, respected leader, consistently leading by example."
  • J & J Transport, "Recognized for building efficient teams and enhancing cross-border logistics performance."

Timeline

General Operations Manager

J & J Transport
09.2018 - 11.2021

Deputy General Operations Manager

J & J Transport
06.2017 - 08.2018

Operations Manager

J & J Transport
05.2013 - 05.2017

Operations Manager

Transparency.Com
07.2011 - 02.2012

Post Graduate Diploma - Enterprise Management

University of Cape Town
01.2003 - 11.2003

Bachelor of Social Sciences - Psychological Studies

University of Cape Town
01.2000 - 01.2002

Group Head of Operations (Road Freight)

Alistair Logistics Zambia
1 2022 - Current
WARREN J VAN HEERDENExecutive Transport Operations And Logistics Leader