Procurement and Planning Manager

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Director of North American Purchasing & Planning, the
Procurement and Planning
Manager
is responsible for overseeing production planning, scheduling, purchasing, and logistics operations in Canada, ensuring alignment with global objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• 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.

Required Qualifications:

• 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

Preferred Qualifications:

• Project Management training
• Professional certifications such as APICS CSCP, CPIM, SCMA, or equivalent
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and tools

Working Conditions:

• Primarily office-based with regular visits to manufacturing areas
• Regular use of a computer and standard office equipment