Position Summary:
Reporting to the Director of North American Purchasing & Planning, the Purchasing & Planning Manager is responsible for overseeing production planning, scheduling, purchasing, and logistics operations in Canada, ensuring alignment with global objectives.
Lead and manage the purchasing, production planning, and logistics teams, providing coaching, feedback, and development opportunities.
Supervise Buyers and Planners through daily management, improving material availability, optimizing production schedules, and eliminating material shortages and production bottlenecks.
Develop and maintain metrics to monitor and enhance supply chain performance, including supplier evaluations and KPIs such as total cost of acquisition, cost savings, inventory turnover, lead time, and service levels.
Collaborate across departments to forecast material requirements and ensure timely procurement to meet customer and business demands.
Analyze sales forecasts, customer orders, and inventory data to create accurate and efficient production plans.
Develop purchasing policies and procedures to ensure effective use of resources and materials.
Partner with Category Managers on cost-saving initiatives, process improvements, and category strategy implementation.
Generate and present reports on production performance, capacity utilization, and schedule adherence to senior leadership.
Oversee inventory forecasting, demand planning, and capacity reporting.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency and process enhancement.
Facilitate departmental cross-training and act as the escalation point for the purchasing and planning team.
Develop a high-performing supplier base with strategic partnerships focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and supply continuity.
Manage supplier performance, development, and contract agreements, including performance scorecards.
Negotiate and manage contracts with third-party logistics providers across multiple transportation modes.
Develop and implement transportation strategies to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery of goods.
Ensure compliance with shipping regulations, customs, and import/export laws.
Monitor and report logistics performance metrics such as transportation costs, service levels, and savings.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum 7 years of purchasing/procurement experience in a manufacturing environment
Bachelor's degree or college diploma in business, supply chain, or related field
Proficient in ERP/MRP systems
Advanced skills in MS Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Self-motivated with strong initiative and results orientation
Skilled in problem-solving, decision-making, and process optimization
Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Experience supporting the manufacturing of custom products
Demonstrated experience sourcing niche suppliers
Strong knowledge of procurement and sourcing best practices
Background in technical or engineering-related environments
Excellent negotiation and analytical skills
High attention to detail and strong organizational abilities
Adaptable and positive in a changing environment
Experience with ISO standards and process documentation
Business acumen and sound judgment
Effective cross-functional collaboration skills
Ability to build trust and credibility with internal teams and suppliers
Client-focused mindset with proactive service delivery
Legally authorized to work in Canada without sponsorship
Project Management training
Professional certifications such as APICS CSCP, CPIM, SCMA, or equivalent
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools
Primarily office-based with regular visits to manufacturing areas
Regular use of a computer and standard office equipment
We are committed to hiring military and Veteran spouses and encourage you to identify your connection with the MSEN when reaching out to us or applying to any of our open roles.
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Welcome on behalf on the Altis Recruitment team! Altis has a long-standing business relationship with the Defence community. For more than 30 years, we have been grateful to work alongside the Department of National Defence and countless military professionals. We know that family members of military personnel often make many personal sacrifices to support their loved ones. We understand that it can be difficult to pursue a career when embracing sudden changes like relocation and deployment. For some, this has meant putting a pause on career goals or professional development. We would like to provide you with everything you need for a successful and confident job search – in addition to access to job opportunities. Download the checklists our experts have created to help you be at your best from application to interview.