Director of Distribution

We are seeking a strong leader to take charge of our Canadian distributor network In this position, you will play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, fostering team collaboration, and aligning our distribution strategy with Spectra Premium's demand strategy. This role is ideal for an experienced operations leader who thrives on building high-performing teams, streamlining processes, and ensuring flawless execution across the supply chain.

All the important tasks that will be entrusted to you:

Leadership

• Develop and lead a unified distribution team integrating all receiving, testing, order preparation and shipping operations to ensure a collaborative approach to distribution activities;
• Determine labor requirements to meet production targets;
• Ensure team members have the necessary training and tools to succeed and grow in their roles, including training in safety, operations, and best practices;
• Be responsible for the performance of the teams under his/her supervision;
• Monitor industry trends and technologies to anticipate investment and equipment needs;
• Review and approve the department's recommendations regarding salaries and promotions;
• Collaborate with cross-functional departments to improve communication, streamline processes, and generate revenue;
• Establish employee objectives and evaluate their performance;
• Ensure that all health and safety requirements are met;
• Work with key staff to ensure that an adequate succession plan is in place for all key positions.

Strategic Planning

• Implement production monitoring and quality control systems, analyze productions to identify problems and propose process or personnel adjustments;
• Coordinate with other support departments (human resources, finance, transportation) to ensure the smooth running of production operations;
• Lead continuous improvement efforts related to warehouse operations, layout, processes and training;
• Monitor systems and technologies, and collaborate with IT to establish a roadmap for improvements;
• Align the vision and strategic plans of warehouse operations with SPI2.0 growth and the integration of new brands, including recommendations on capacity management and growth needs.

Operational leadership

• Ensure that all activities support the achievement of Spectra's key inventory accuracy objectives;
• Manage day-to-day activities related to operations;
• Measure productivity by analyzing performance data, financials, and activity reports;
• Implement audits and controls on the company's inventory and assets;
• Coordinate with sales departments to plan capacity and responsiveness to meet customer satisfaction goals;
• Lead and communicate the establishment and maintenance of operations manuals and policies;
• Ensure the proper management and maintenance of the facilities, in coordination with local employees;
• Manage and negotiate real estate leases and contracts;
• Evaluate, plan and execute: selection of suppliers, racking, material handling equipment, technologies and operational needs for the transition, start-up or closure of sites;
• Assess the company's space needs (ownership, lease or 3PL) to support inventory and sales activities, and negotiate with the various owners.

General

• Develop performance indicators (KPIs) and dashboards to measure the performance of all departments and functions;
• Constantly keep up to date with best practices by conducting research, reading, and attending supply chain conferences;
• Lead and participate in the preparation of the budget and the management of expenses for the operations unit.

Your most important areas of competence and expertise for this position:

• University degree in operations management or related field, and 15 years of relevant experience;
• Excellent knowledge of the end-to-end supply chain;
• Experience in managing people, processes, time and priorities;
• Intermediate computer knowledge (MS Office, JD Edwards);
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations;
• Knowledge of the Kaizen method or a related discipline;
• Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher, an asset;
• Excellent problem-solving skills;
• Ability to plan, organize and lead a team;
• Ability to objectively evaluate staff;
• Excellent communication and organizational skills;
• Bilingual: French, English;
• Very good listening skills;
• Sense of organization, rigor, judgment and discernment;
• Ethical and results-oriented.