Job Summary

A*STAR Integrated Central Operations & Research Enablers (iCORE) plays a vital strategic role in strengthening the biomedical research ecosystem by delivering reliable, efficient, and future-ready scientific and operational support. By integrating deep expertise, research infrastructure, and optimised operations iCORE ensures that researchers across A*STAR, academia, and industry can focus on scientific innovation whilst relying on critical support functions operating seamlessly in the background. iCORE is built on three major pillars: iCORE Platforms, iCORE Operations and the Office of iCORE, integrated to provide both front-end scientific capabilities and back-end operational excellence. Together, these functions enable end-to-end support elevating research quality and efficiency across the ecosystem.

Under iCORE Operations pillar, the Logistics & Operations team supports the daily functioning of A*STAR Research Entities (REs) through essential services that keep research running smoothly and safely. This includes research consumables supply via Smart Stores, Logistics Hub operations, central receiving and distribution coordination, self-collection solutions through PickLah lockers, laboratory glassware washing, sterilisation services and biohazard waste management.

The Smart Store system provides researchers with convenient and streamlined access to commonly used laboratory consumables through inventory-managed and technology-enabled self-service points. Supporting this is the Logistics Hub, which oversees inventory management, storage, replenishment, fulfilment and distribution activities to improve operational efficiency, inventory visibility, and service responsiveness across REs. In addition, the central receiving function consolidates incoming deliveries and coordinates distribution processes to ensure timely and efficient movement of goods to end users while reducing storage time, operational handling, and delivery inefficiencies. PickLah lockers further enhance operational convenience by providing secure and flexible self-collection options for users.

Together, these critical functions ensure laboratories remain compliant, efficient, and fully operational — allowing researchers to focus their time and expertise on research rather than operational or logistical tasks.

The Logistics Assistant Manager / Manager is responsible for overseeing iCORE Logistics Hub, Smart Store and PickLah locker operations to ensure efficient receiving, inventory management, fulfilment, storage and distribution processes for research consumables. The role focuses on operational control, system optimisation, process improvement, inventory control and stakeholder management to deliver reliable, scalable and future-ready logistics services.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee Logistics Hub and Smart Store operations, ensuring efficient execution of receiving, storage, inventory management, replenishment, picking, packing and distribution activities ensuring accuracy of documentation and traceability of inventory and transactions.
• Lead operational planning and workflow optimisation to achieve service level targets, operational efficiency, turnaround time requirements and ultimately customer satisfaction.
• Manage inventory accuracy through stock monitoring, quarterly & annual counts, reconciliation and proper inventory control practices.
• Ensure smooth and efficient operational workflows while meeting service level and turnaround time requirements. Address operational issues and provide timely updates and resolutions to stakeholders and management.
• Drive Smart Store operational readiness, replenishment planning and continuous improvement initiatives to ensure product availability and system functionality.
• Manage centralised receiving and distribution processes for non-inventory items, including PickLah locker operations to optimise material flow and minimise storage time.              
• Oversee logistics systems and technologies including ERP (S4 and Ariba), IMS, barcode systems, smart lockers and other automation solutions to ensure operational reliability and data accuracy.
• Assist in leading troubleshooting and resolution of operational and system-related issues in collaboration with users, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Identify and implement process improvement, automation, and digitalisation initiatives to enhance productivity, operational visibility, and user experience.
• Manage relationships with internal stakeholders, vendors and service providers to support operational and project requirements.
• Ensure compliance with operational procedures, safety standards, audit requirements and organisational policies.
• Monitor operational performance through reporting, data analysis and KPI tracking to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist in leading, supervise and develop logistics personnel by providing guidance, operational direction, coaching and performance management to ensure operational excellence, accountability, teamwork, customer-centric service and continuous capability development within the logistics operations team.
• Support change management and staff engagement initiatives related to operational transformation, system implementation and process improvements.
• Support manpower planning, resource allocation and team scheduling to ensure smooth daily operations and operational coverage.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of warehouse operations, distribution processes, inventory management and centralised logistics operations.
• Experience with ERP (SAP)/WMS/logistics systems and inventory tracking technologies.
• Familiarity with barcode, lockers, or automation technologies is an advantage.
• Good understanding of inventory reconciliation, stock control, cycle count processes and transaction traceability.
• Experience in operational data analysis, reporting, KPI tracking and performance monitoring.
• Familiarity with process improvement, workflow optimisation and logistics digitalisation initiatives.
• Ability to troubleshoot operational and system-related issues and coordinate resolutions with stakeholders and vendors.
• Understanding of procurement, receiving, fulfilment and operational workflows.
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices, audit compliance requirements and operational SOP management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel and operational reporting tools.

Competencies

• Strong operational planning and coordination skills.
• Good analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple operational activities in a fast-paced environment.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Detail-oriented with strong organisational and time management skills.
• Proactive mindset with continuous improvement and customer-service orientation.
• Adaptable and able to manage operational changes and transformation initiatives effectively.