Job Description

By some estimates, consumers in Africa spend relatively up to ten times more of their disposable income on food compared to developed markets. On the other hand, smallholder farmers in fresh produce supply chains encounter multiple challenges that prevent them from achieving sustainable livelihoods through their farms. This economic challenge to food security is primarily caused by the highly fragmented and inefficient retail market across the continent, where roughly 90% consists of small independent retailers.

YoLa Fresh is aiming to be Africas largest fresh produce supply chain, which leverages technology and data to organize the agriculture commerce ecosystem. Our technology and Africa-centric solutions will disrupt the way fruits and vegetables move from farms to consumers' plates. We empower farmers and other players in the ecosystem in ways never done before. Our Supply Chain is equipped to move thousands tonnes of perishables from farms to businesses, every day, in less than 24 hours.

YoLa Fresh has been founded by repeat Founders from leading technology unicorns (Jumia, Careem, NinjaCart, Avito, etc.). Alongside them, YoLa Fresh got a stellar set of investors (African and International VCs) & advisors (executives from blue chip companies).

We are a highly motivated, results driven community, who focus on proactive approaches to problem solving. We cherish entrepreneurial spirit and provide significant operating autonomy to senior leaders. There are ample opportunities and challenges to be solved at scale and in real-time.

were seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead our Operations Excellence team. As the Head of Operations Excellence, you will play a pivotal role in optimizing our logistics network, enhancing productivity, and driving YoLa Fresh towards profitability. If you thrive on challenges, embrace innovation, and have a passion for operational excellence, this is the opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities:

Optimizing our logistics network to deliver thousands of tons of fresh produce daily by meeting the SLAs, minimizing spoilage and maximizing efficiency.

Improving productivity and reducing cost to allow YoLa Fresh to reach its profitability targets and build an efficient and cost effective supply chain

Leveraging data analytics to identify bottlenecks, measure impact, and make data-driven decisions that fuel growth.

Championing a culture of continuous improvement, empowering teams to embrace innovation and optimize processes across the organization.

Leading a high-performing team of OpEx specialists to execute impactful initiatives and ensure YoLa Freshs operational excellence.

Requirements

Youll thrive in this role if you have:

Minimum 5 years of experience in a leadership role within operations, supply chain, or a related field.

Proven track record of successfully implementing operational excellence initiatives that deliver measurable results.

Expertise in data analysis and process improvement methodologies like Six Sigma, Lean, or Kaizen.

Strong leadership and communication skills to build relationships, motivate teams, and influence stakeholders across the organization.

A passion for technology and innovation, eager to leverage data and automation to further optimize operations.

Fluency in French and English is essential.