In the fast-paced world of automotive retail, where consistent customer satisfaction is vital, logistics and warehousing are what keeps everything running. Shaun Riley (photo) is the Logistics and Warehouse Manager at Jetour South Africa and tells us more of his vision and passion.
“My journey in supply chain began in 2010, and from the very start, I was captivated by the pace, complexity and impact of the industry,” says Shaun. That early exposure led him to pursue formal studies in supply chain management while gaining hands-on experience.
By 2013, Riley found himself involved in freight forwarding, which he refers to as the ‘engine room’ of logistics. “It was a high-energy, fast-paced environment, and I thrived in it,” he reflects. “Those years were foundational – everything was new, and I was constantly learning.”
Driven by a desire to understand supply chain operations from a full product life-cycle perspective, he transitioned to the automotive industry, followed by a transformative stint at a major fashion retailer, where he worked in one of the world’s most sophisticated supply chains that developed his agility and reaction to market demands.
This multifaceted journey eventually led him to Jetour South Africa, where he is helping to shape a logistics and warehousing ecosystem for this new SUV brand, which launched in South Africa last September.
“At Jetour, I’m combining everything I’ve learned over the years to help build something meaningful and long-lasting,” Shaun says. “This is my first OEM role focused on the local market, and it felt like the right fit from day one.”
As Logistics and Warehouse Manager, Shaun oversees the end-to-end parts supply chain, from importation and inventory control to warehousing and final distribution to dealers and service centres across South Africa.
“A typical day starts early at the warehouse, where I ensure that all our systems are running smoothly. These tools are crucial as they give us real-time visibility and the ability to make fast, smart decisions,” he explains. “But beyond the tech, I love engaging with the people on the ground. It’s the team that drives the culture and success of Jetour.”
A hallmark of his approach is his commitment to digital transformation, with Jetour’s warehouse using completely paperless processes. Tasks are triggered and tracked electronically utilising visual and auditory cues, real-time handheld notifications and digital dashboards that offer constant clarity on performance and productivity.
In South Africa’s competitive automotive landscape, Shaun says that this efficiency is more than operational — it’s strategic. “Customers expect reliability and speed. Any delay in parts distribution can affect the service experience and the brand’s reputation.”
Despite being behind the scenes, Riley is acutely aware of the impact that his role has on customer experience. “Everything we do in logistics feeds into that moment when customers get their cars back on time, repaired properly and hassle-free. That’s where the real value of supply chain comes to life,” he states.
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